Guest Review – The Stranglers – Warwick Uni – 15-8-15.

The Stranglers played Warwick Uni on 15-8-15…
Roving Guest Reviewer Mully tells all…

ALAS POOR WARWICK, I KNEW HIM HORATIO

A couple of days before my departure to another Strangler’ gig in The Copper Rooms at Warwick University, an EasyJet e-mail to remind me of things to do in The Midlands, freaked me out as my flight time to Birmingham was much earlier than I initially thought. Anyway, once I’d double-checked my booking, rather than re-arrange my original plans, I decided to take in a visit to Birmingham Arts & History Museum before journeying to Coventry.

With a couple of hours to kill, I hurried through galleries that did not grab my attention (The Staffordshire Hoard left me bored, the Warhol exhibit a rip-off) and mused over some of the Egyptian/Roman/Greek archaeology. The 17th Century Baroque Art drew me – masterpieces by Carlo Dolci “St Andrew’s Prayers Before His Martyrdom” (with a self-portrait of the artist watching on) and Gentileschi’s “Rest On Flight To Eygpt” were particular highlights as were some Degas sculptures. Modern culture of Birmingham was represented with some wartime memorabilia, through to more recent period exhibits. I noticed a small display on Duran Duran, records, badges and concert tickets – which had been supplied by a ‘superfan’ – who had seen the band an amazing five times!! Five times – jeez, I had already seen The Stranglers five times in March!!

It was soon time to catch the train over to Coventry and a 30 minute journey left me a stone’s throw from my hotel – which also allowed me to check in a bit early. Pleasant enough accommodation and a couple of Strangler fans were already in residence. Dropped off my bags, unpacked – a quick wash and brush up left me ready to head into town. Before contacting Kevin, John and Tracy with a meet up point, I grabbed a fish and chip from a greasy take-away and sat in a sunny town garden to consume the said fare. Across the road was a freehouse, and so I texted the troops and arranged to hook up there before heading to the venue. Getting in a round of drinks, on a whim, I purchased a wee shot of Sambuca for a birthday boy at the table next to us – which was gratefully received, and led to the ladies in his company getting him a couple more!! Good luck to you later on mate!!

Steve H texted to let me know he was already on The Sun Terrace at the Uni Bar and Bryan messaged me (even though I didn’t see it) to inform us that the pre-gig BBQ social at Mark T’s had also progressed up to the venue. We finished off our drinks and caught a cab to take us there – eventually (after the foreign cab driver finally understood my accent!!). Disembarking from the taxi, a steady stream of Strangler T-shirts were converging from all directions towards the bar room and once inside with fresh drinks in hand, the greets, hugs and handshakes, general catch-ups with friends (many of whom I had only said good-byes to a month earlier!!) began. All the great and good were in attendance (with some notable exceptions who were missing in action – especially Audrey, who had a prior arrangement to see her son’s band Osmosis). As the beer flowed and Mother Nature’s nicotine additive ‘blowed’, all intentions of catching the support band went out the window, as the craic was just too good. God help the poor girls behind the S.U. bar as at one stage the queue for drink practically meandered out the door of the bar.

There were chats with three Steves and cuddles with Sharon,
Hugs with Isabella, Sandra and Karen,
Belfast memories with Bryan and Mark T,
Bazzainblack and dead ringer Billy B.
Keith with Dave, Mandy and Liz – catching up on all the biz.
Eileen and Julie, and talking to Matt
About small flying tigers and zoos and all that,
Paul and Alan, and Jacqui sans Owen,
Soon it’s time for Kev and Elaine to be goin’.
Hellos to Munros, Katie and Tony,
And Nikki and Sarah – and even friend Joni.
Pidge, Pete and Dave, Cathy and Martin
Back to John and Trace as the gig was soon startin’.

So it was into the venue and it wasn’t long before The Stranglers made their way on stage – kicking off with an immense version of ‘Toiler’. The low ceiling and pillared hall gave a limited view from where we were stationed, but the sound was good and at this stage that was all that really mattered. A set list change saw the inclusion of ‘Goodbye Toulouse’ – one of my all-time favorite Strangler tracks – absolutely love the killer guitar solo from this song. My night was already made. The band rocks on through ‘Grip’, ‘I’ve Been Wild’ and ‘Curfew’ – the crowd responding to the energy coming from the stage. By the time Golden Brown’ comes round, I am ready to depart for my obligatory smoke-break, but Bazza twists my arm into having a pint and so I watch the performance for the first time in an absolute age. With my drink in hand and after listening to another ‘new’ track – ‘Death’n’Night’Blood’, it is not until ‘Freedom Is Insane’ that I make my way to the smoking area door (just beside the stage). Outside, you can still hear the band play – if somewhat muted, so it ain’t too bad out here!! Back in during ‘Nuclear Device’, it wasn’t long before I was boogie-ing along to ‘Time Was Once….’. During ‘Duchess’ I reckon I could manage another quick sneaky cig in before the end, but once outside I bump into Bazza and we start talking to Arletta (who bizarrely works for the Royal Mail – you couldn’t make it up!!) and before long the encores have started. Bit confuddled by ‘Heroes’ being the last song of the set, then ‘Something Better Change’ and ‘Tank’ make up the ‘real’ encore tracks.

As the house-lights go up and everyone mingles for the post-gig ensemble, I meet up with a few people I had as yet not had the pleasure to encounter – Martin and his lovely wife Lyndsay (happy birthday again) but without young Elliott this time, and as I turn, I notice Pat – but before I can properly say hello – I only see my Belfast Belle, Bev. What a surprise – I was floored (literally) and this blew ‘Toulouse’ out of the water in making my night.

Back into the Uni Bar for further drinks and the revelry continues in earnest. I find myself on the comfiest seat in the house as the craic continues on into the wee small hours. Before long it is good-byes, handshakes and kisses, to see only eight remaining figures – Keith, Dave, Kev, Elizabeth, Mandy, Elaine, Mark and yours truly – taxi-less, drinkless and ready to head back into town. Luckily we are in Mark T’s company and he knows how to escape the rat-run maze of avenues in the campus. Although taxis had been ordered, we find ourselves roaming round the empty varsity and after various piss-stops (both male and female varieties!!) we find ourselves at the Security Hut. The staff order us a couple of cabs and we are soon on the road back to our respective hotels.

Sunday morning arrives all too soon, to find the sun once again splitting the trees and for me, an alcohol induced splitting headache. If you have read any of my previous tour reviews, you will know I often take in a trip to the local zoological gardens – this weekend was no exception. I had planned a late flight back home, hence allowing me the time to visit Dudley Zoo. A trip back to Brum on the train and a bus journey out to Dudley saw me dropped off outside the castle and surrounding park.

I was immediately on guard as I walked through the gates as the first thing I saw was a fun-fair – with dodgems, a crappy roller-coaster and various other rides. Not good. As it turned out, it was a zoo of two halves – one was a small dog menagerie (definitely a shit zoo), bored animals in concrete pits, poor maintenance and poor lay-out. The good parts included the Lemur Trail, the big cat collection – with breeding Lynx (the cubs playing with the mother brought a smile to my face), Snow Leopards and Sumatran Tigers – all looking healthy and their cages well landscaped. Usually I can spend all day wandering around a zoo, taking in all the enclosures a number of times, but today I was really disappointed and left after only a couple or three hours. Back into town in time to watch the footie in The Railway Bar and renew acquaintances with the cute barmaid from back on the March Tour.

Late flight back to Belfast completed another Strangler trip – eventually reaching home at 23:30 hrs. Tired, knackered but happy. Thanks to everyone for making this another memorable jolly – great company, great time and great friends…….
One more to go in 2015 – and it’s gonna be a messy one!!

Mully.

Over…

Words: Graeme Mullan.
Photos: Karen Parfitt.

Bonus Animation:

Gig Review – The Stranglers – The Copper Rooms – Warwick Uni Coventry 15-7-15

Gig Review – The Stranglers – The Copper Rooms – Warwick Uni Coventry 15-7-15.

Tiffin at Mr T’s.

Departing the fine country air of Bristol we fired up the Sugar Tongs and aimed in the General Direction of Coventry. Arriving some time later…

There we headed off for Tiffin, where our wonderful hosts Mr and Mrs T provided a superb BBQinBlack to many a grateful (and some road-weary) PersonaeinBlack. Muchisimas Gracias!

Suitably fed and watered we ventured on to the amazingly huge and sprawling campus of Warwick University for tonight’s proceedings. For a meetup with most of the suspects from last night’s gig at Tyntesfield and many others including: Bazzainblack, Patm, Elizabethjt, Martin and Lyndsay (sans Elliot), Uncle Burn e 77 and The Legendary Pidge, toneinstoke, Alexo, PaulL, Peterg, Jonif and Jadef, Jacq and Kath, Kev and Mully, StevenM, Adam and Jackie, Gareth and Nichola, Keithw and Davec, Dannyh, Sarah, Julie, Katie JJ, Purple Eileen, Little Chick and Salm, Simonp, TonyA, Peterg, Kat and Bill, Willyb, Steveh, etc Etc EiTC…

Showtime:

We made our way into the Copper Rooms in time to catch support act duo The Table Scraps, who in spite of obvious references to The White Strypes format wise, proceeded to deliver a blistering set which couldn’t (and didn’t) fail to win over any audience. TTS provided a solid passionate delivery of raw, honest rock and roll, with solid drums, superb guitar work, heartfelt vocals and a Theremin to boot! Check them out…

Stranglin’ Time:

In a huge contrast to the gentility of last night, we were hemmed in like super compressed sardines, a guarantee of huge sweaty stonkingness was therefore fulfilled.

Kicking off with Toiler we would all have been happy to have a repeat of last night’s set but this was not to be the case as SO was dropped in favour of a gargantuan Goodbye Toulouse (nice one Unc). While in the place of 5 Mins, we got a demon delivery of Death and Night and Blood.

A few were hoisted up on shoulders tonight including Sarah during Sleazy much to the delight of the two frontmen. In addition to being hoisted up some were hoisted over as on Relentless, which saw Keithw hoisted over and a quick improv from Baz as he changed the lyrics accordingly to something like – I Saw Geordie Keith Today being escorted away by security…

Song of the night for EiTC goes to the serious business of IFLAW!

In the place of Skin Deep the boys delivered a highly radioactive Nuclear Device. The main set was once more rounded out with NMH which saw Bazzainblack going OTT, providing a decoy destraction for security as Willyb successfully carried out a stage invasion, much to everyones surprise and amusement.

At the encore a very welcome return to SBC (12” extended remix) in place of ADAAOTN, before set closer Tank.
Top Stuff Indeed!

A quick trip into Coventry centre for a superb curry at Akbars restaurant and a most civilised end to another vintage day in black…

Over…

Words: EiTC.

Photos: BBQ – Mr & Mrs T, Balcony – Sharon Williams,
Photos: Colour Stranglers – Dave Higginson,
All others Photos: – EiTC.

Bonus:

Gig Review – The Stranglers – Tyntesfield 14th August 2015.

I Saw The Black!

Students of theology have on occasion pondered as to any heavenly connections there may be between certain mortals or earthly organisations and the skies themselves. Following a trail that led from Lymington to London, little to no clues were uncovered. After a tip off in the light of recent evidence revealed by a new interpretation of the ancient scrolls, all the signs pointed left. With this in mind the controls were set to the direction of the West. A meet up with Agent Bella saw us headed to the country manor Tyntesfield.

It was here in these grand surroundings that we encountered a gathering of the familiar black clad masses mingling with the Wax Jacket and Wellies set. Agent Baglady joined us seconded from her Devonian mission while also here tonight were: Shazzer, Mr T, Daveh, Sandra, Gizzard, Alm, Stevem, Nickyp, The pharbours, Karenp, Bryanh, Bradford John, (Al and JJ), Tanner and many others…

Whilst it may have been Divine intervention that held off the rain in Hampton, tonight bore further witness to the theory that the supreme alien is working with the Meninblack, as the clouds rolled back and the precipitation ceased, in order to enable tonight’s entertainment to proceed.

Support acts Howard and The Leaves and Donkey Hot Pink (?) did their utmost to warm up the crowd and in a flash we were at 9:30 and Waltzinblack.

A rather serious and Stern looking Stranglers made the stage and kicked off with Toiler on The Sea and with the crowd on side their mood soon changed as the smiles slowly began to appear on their faces. The set was similar to the earlier summer mini tour dates with Straighten Out, Grip, I’ve Been Wild, Curfew, Relentless, Nice ‘n’ Sleazy, Golden Brown, Always The Sun, 5 Minutes, Freedom Is Insane, Time To Die, Norfolk Coast, IFLAW, Skin Deep, Peaches, TWOOMS, Lost Control, Duchess and NMH rounding out the main Set. After a short break the encore consisted of ADAAOTN and Tank.

The boys were on their usual good form sounding tight and seeming up for it. The fresh country air clearly worked for Baz as he went into overdrive on the banter front. His summer recess elocution lessons having paid for themselves tonight alone, with his perfect BBC English rambling throughout – alluding to their butler Pinkington-Smythe shooting anyone found in the ‘Growing Patch’ and being on The Croquet Lawn for example and especially on Peaches, where this persona controlled the latter half of the song. During grip we got – The air out here is really nice I don’t want to go inside!…

While the crowd were fairly civilised there was a little cheesecloth exfoliation from the Johnny Sox fans etc Etc EiTC…

Verdict: – A top night out in the middle of nowhere, must do it again some time Old Bean…
Over…

Words and Photos: EiTC.

Bonus:

Guest Review – The Stranglers – Holmfirth Picturedrome and Blackburn King Georges Hall – July 2015

Guest Review: Stranglers Mini Tour July 15 – Holmfirth and Blackburn according to Mully…

LAST OF THE BUMMER WHINE

Holmfirth Picturedrome and Blackburn King Georges Hall – July 2015

An uneventful flight from Belfast to Liverpool early Wednesday morning found me awaiting the arrival of my lift and gig buddy for another two Strangler gigs on that wee island off the coast of Ulster. Sat waiting, I contemplated e-mailing Mr Roget (he of the Thesaurus fame) to propose an addendum to his published tome – the insertion of Kevin Nacey under “kind-hearted, generous, princely, etc…” For the second year in a row, Kev has picked me up from the airport, driven to two gigs and ferried me back for the return flight – what a star. All that and having to put up with me as well!! But before I could compose such an e-mail, the man himself pulled up in his black BMW and after man-hugs and other catch-up greetings, my baggage was secured in the boot and we were off.

Anyway, we are soon on the road to Holmfirth – a very pleasant drive up hill and down dale, the not too hot sun shining, taking our time and enjoying the scenery through some beautiful picturesque villages. Eventually we arrive at our destination – The White Horse Hotel/B&B – a quaint family run hostelry nestled in the Yorkshire countryside on the banks of a babbling stream. Booked in, bags deposited in our rooms we await the arrival of the missing third of our tour triumvirate – the legend in Strangler gig-dom – Elaine Smith.

All too soon the Big Three, the Crucial Three, the Three Little Gigs-goers (or more likely The Three Stooges) are once again re-united as a taxi pulls up and emerging from the back seat, a hand clutching a giant Strangler poster from last night’s venue is followed by the lady herself. In the hotel bar, after a couple of pints and after getting changed into gig-gear, Elaine organises a taxi to take us into town – which felt like a trip with Postman Pat, as the taxi wended its way through the narrow streets of the Holmfirth metropolis. I wouldn’t say it was all hills, but I think I saw Ranulph Fiennes and a couple of Nepalese Gurkhas setting up a base camp by the side of the road.

Deposited at the venue, we cross the road and make our way to The Bridge Inn to meet up with any like-minded people for the pre-gig social. Dandering along towards the bridge to The Bridge (no doubt hence the name), my first encounter (of many) that day was none other than young Elliot – standing out from the crowd, smiling from ear to ear. I had met this young man back in our hotel after the Preston gig last year with his Mum Lindsay and Dad Martin (and I didn’t even see them standing there too) until after Elliot and I had caught up again. I have known a few ‘Strangler Kids’ going to gigs with their parents – but this boy is different gravy. He possesses an near encycolpedic knowledge of the band and you can tell when talking to him it isn’t just cos his Dad is a fan – you can talk Stranglers with Elliot and not feel condescending or patronising. Early on in the day and this catch up had me buzzing with excitement already.

Heading bar-ward (I mean it was getting on half an hour since our last pint) and I bump into Jim Mac having a quiet pint outside the bar. Had a quick chat with him and got the inside track on Coventry’s support act, Table Scraps – sounding good and friends of Jim’s – must make the effort to catch them. As we were joined by Rikki and after more (Versace) smiles and catch ups, I eventually make it into the bar. Liquid refreshment in hand, Kev, Elaine and myself make our way to the tables outside There we are joined at various stages and via various rounds of cider and beer by Billy Barr, Mark T, Pete G, Julie, Eileen, The Munro’s, Matt & Karlos. Sitting in the sun, downing alcohol – the craic was ninety – stories told and re-told, jokes and japes – highlight being Mark bringing out the bar’s ‘Ring For Attention’ notice for poor Billy (who will never live the Belfast Bell(e) experience down). If I thought meeting up with Elliot was a pleasant surprise – when I bump into John & Tracy (another Preston meet) today’s social rocketed into stratospheric heights.

Kev and I depart for greasy chip shop fare as others order food from the cuisine on offer at The Bridge. Once fed and (re)watered, the hardcore infantry maneuver to take up their offensive positions on the barrier whilst the cavalry decide to decamp to The Nook where other ‘family’ have congregated. Rounding the corner of the narrow alley leading down to an enclosed courtyard, there larger than life – Dave Colton, with Phil, Mandy and Elizabeth – amongst others. Dave was surprised to see me – and with Phil there, it was another Big Three – a third of The Pavillion Nine. Who was it sang ‘Three Is The Magic Number’? – I think they might have been onto something there !! More imbibing and hilarity (even a tickin’ sandwich) takes place until it is time to ride into action and charge into the breach.

Holmfirth Picturedrome is a class venue – tight, double balcony all-round the rectangular room, with a sloping floor to give everyone a good view of the stage and a slightly raised rear platform with a bar and where the merch had set up. Without too much effort even after missing the support act, I was able to make my way up to the front just behind Kev, Elaine et al and met a few others who I hadn’t seen earlier.

The lights dim, the intro music blasts out and the crowd cheering heralds the start of the concert. Even now, after years of attending Strangler gigs, there seems to be a tangible excitement fizzing in the air as ‘Waltzinblack’ is played and the band walk onstage. Kicking off as they did in Belfast with ‘Toiler..’ the instant rumbling, thunderous bass intro gets the crowd moving and as JJ rocks back and forth to the rhythm, the rest of the band join in. The first three songs (there’s that number again) – ‘Toiler..’, ‘Straighten Out’ and ‘Grip’ blow everyone away. The energy levels are kept topped up with ‘I’ve Been Wild’, but just as I’m readying myself for ‘Four Horsies’ – a personal highlight of the March On Tour – the band play ‘Curfew’ instead. By the time ‘Golden Brown’ starts with a drumbeat similar to a Parades Commission ruling back home, I depart the front for the obligatory smoke break. Very few smokers in Holmfirth – there is just me and one other guy, but as any other nicotine addicted leper will tell you, we always spark up conversations and this guy regaled tales of all the bands he had seen over the years here and was amazed I’d came over from Belfast tonight to see The Stranglers.

Back in just in time for ‘Five Minutes’, but rather than returning to the front, I mooch towards mid-centre and through to a more sedate position and watch the remainder of the show from there. ‘Time To Die’ with its sing-along “der-ner ner-ner-ner” guitar section always gets me. At one stage Baz commented on giving a prize for the best haircut – usually awarded to a middle-aged baldy bloke, but tonight he highlighted Eileen’s purple dyed coiffure, but cheekily added a purple rinse/parma violet joke. He was beckoned over and as he bent down to hear what she had to say, was forcibly thrust betwixt her bosom – much to his surprise and obvious delight. Tonight’s other highlights include ‘TWOOMS’ – really digging this one and following that , Baz’s extended guitar improv into ‘Lost Control’ (is it me, or does that vary each night?) allows the rest of the band some breathing space and a chance to catch their breath. ‘Duchess’ and ‘Hanging Around’ raise the energy levels just at the peak – the crowd singing and dancing and pogo-ing to the climax of the set. Thank you’s and goodnight – but we all know there is still the encores to come. Still too much bonhomie for me, but I do understand the showbiz side needs attending to and then ‘Walk On By’ goes off into it’s psychedelic overdrive, Warwick on acid, glorified best. As JJ steps up to thump his Shuker and sonically reduce the crowds internal organs to mush, we know it will be the last song as ‘Heroes’ starts – the bass intro acting like a fuel injected carburettor – as the crowd erupt into a bouncing throng. The ending leaves everyone on a high – it’s just the bows, the thank you’s and offstage.

Elliot manages to purlion Jim’s drumsticks (promised from before) and Baz’s sweaty towel (rather you than me pal), as the set-lists are distributed to the grabbing hands of fans. The family gather to debrief, meet-up, get some photos taken and then we debunk into the arena’s other bar area for liquid replenishments and the post-gig comedown. New friends were introduced to old and even more alcohol consumed. As the group steadily dwindled, the three last one’s standing ordered ourselves a taxi back to The White Horse and bed. That is of course after Elaine did her best Nora Batty impression getting into her room.

Another day, another morning and another gig. Post breakfast, whilst awaiting Kev to get out of his kip, I asked our landlady where I could grab a packet of cigarettes – “About half a mile up the road” she replied. Setting off I started up the hill – half way up altitude sickness started kicking in and Mr Fiennes waved hello from his tent. Twenty cigs successfully purchased and a bottle of Lucozade downed, I made the reverse journey back down – only this time I think it was the bends that kicked in as I descended too quickly. Thinking about it now, it may just have been my hangover that was affecting me!!

By my return, both Kev and Elaine were ready to rock and roll and as we packed our bags into the car Mark T & Pete drove up, stopping for a quick chat. Then we were off again, destination Blackburn and the Grand Hall for yet more Strangling and socialising with like-minded people. A reasonably short trek had us arriving a bit early for check-in, so we passed the time next door in the pub for another early start on the pints – but I was on my holidays – so all was forgiven. Fed, watered and after a forty-winks in our rooms, we re-entered the bar and once again the pre-social meet’n’greet began as more and more Strangler T-shirts started to fill the pub. Julie had arrived and introduced us to Paul and Simon. Barry Spooner and fellow Nottingham punk associate arrived – it is always good to ruminate over all things punk and Strangler related with Barry – the merit of bootleg recordings and green vinyl records were discussed in great depth – and allowing me respite from the idiot indoors. John rang to see where we were meeting up and the general consensus was The Jubilee pub, just opposite the venue (despite the review it was given by the cab driver).

We were almost the first fans in this pub – only another couple playing pool had beat us – but soon the numbers increased and it wasn’t long before John, Tracy, Mark and Mike had joined the company – also met up with John H for the first time. I thought I hadn’t packed the SLF soapbox, but it wasn’t long before it made its appearance – just because I am from Belfast does not automatically mean I am a fan and it didn’t take long before I was rhyming off the long list as to why this K-Tel brand of Punk was not for me. I do understand why other people do like The Stiffs, I really do, but that’s their choice. Now RUDI on the other hand….. Anyway, the message came forth that doors would be closing in 15 minutes and once they were closed no-one was getting in. Obviously the barrier crew had already ventured over early, so we hurriedly made our way across and in through the Grand Hall’s grand doors, down the stairs and into the room for tonight’s gig. However, just before I go through I bump into Les – I’d forgot this gentlemaninblack was coming down from Bonnie Scotland – and he had young Paddy Vex in tow as well.

A bit harder to wend my way forward tonight but manage to get up close enough. Same set as last night to start – but the crowd were more tightly packed, more eager for the mosh and the heat generated was rapidly rising. Disappointingly, once again ‘Four Horsemen’ was omitted, but the first section flew past in the blink of an eye and the heat was still rising. ‘Golden Brown’ allowed me some respite as I departed for a well-earned smoke break. Exiting the hall, I look for the smoking area and eventually asked one of the security men where it was situated – “T’aint any”. So we go outside the front then? “No, doors are shut” WTF? No smoking area!! Jeez. I make my way back inside, but there is little chance of making it back to my original position – I find a sweet spot, good view of the stage and a gentle draught coming from the bar area. I remain here for the rest of the show, chewing gum like a speed freak.

There is a lot of banter tonight between the crowd and Baz. Someone shouted out “Geordie c**t” and I’m not sure which part of that comment offended him the most as he retorted he was neither. We also heard how allegedly a young JJ asked his parents for a Blackburn Rovers strip, to which the crowd responded with chants of “Shearer, Shearer” and Baz dryly quipped “Now he is a Geordie c**t”. The rest of the set careered towards the close – the heat was truly stifling, but the audience remained in overdrive. Overall I preferred Holmfirth but it was a close call. Probably due to either the heat, the ‘pit-stops to catch breath and the amount of banter – or a combination of all three, but only one encore was played tonight as ‘Walk On By’ is dropped, leaving only the climax of ‘Heroes’ to sate the baying crowd.

And that was that. I didn’t hang around too long to say my goodbyes as I needed a smoke – however, there was plenty of time to gather and mingle outside as everyone needed cooling down too. After catching up with a few old friends, most crossed back into The Jubilee to quench our thirst and still there was time to make new acquaintances as Danny and I were chatting before realising we were friends on Facebook – always good to put a face to the name you ‘virtually’ conversed with via the interweb. So that was another trip coming to a close and after a bit of a diversion to escort Sarah part-way to her hotel, we meet up with some other gig-goers at a pub in town. It was here we managed to get a taxi back to our hotel and the sanctity of our beds.

Leaving early the next day, Kev drops the girls at Blackburn train station and me in Liverpool town centre. I had some time to kill until my flight home to Belfast, but knowing Liverpool and having been given some directions to interesting record and collector shops in town, I managed to fill the time well enough. In fact I spent so much time in town, I had to get a taxi up to the airport to ensure I made my flight!!

My seventh and eighth gigs of the calendar year were completed. Different from the March On Tour – the sound was better, the band were tight as a gnat’s chuff, but the set lists in March were much more challenging for the audience and with that more entertaining. That said, I wouldn’t have missed the last two days – the great company, great camaraderie and great craic – the three C’s. Thank you one and all – probably missed loads out, but I wouldn’t like to hazard a guess at how many brain-cells were drunk away over the two days and nights. It was only a shame some of the other ‘regulars’ were not in attendance – but I still have a further two gigs this year to catch up with them again.

Laters crocodiles – keep it greasy.

One love

Mully

Over…

Words: Mully.

Photos: Theantro/EiTC.

Gig Review – The Stranglers – King Georges Hall – Blackburn – 16th July 2015.

Gig Review – The Stranglers – King Georges Hall Blackburn – 16th July 2015.

Northern Road Trip Journal – Day 4

Oh Boy!

A short jaunt from there to here and if our Northern road trip has taught us anything it’s taught us something!

Blackburn doesn’t always get the greatest of press but the impression it left upon us was, for the most part, very positive. Surrounded by a beautiful landscape, the city itself is not without its own attractions…

On arrival we follow a fellow fan (davew) whose bumper stickers show we share two passions, one being a Raven, the other – Sons of The Desert.

In town we meet up with many familiar faces both from the last few days and further back. A quick stroll around town eventually finds us at the charming Molloys pub for super sustenance at incredible value.

On to tonight’s venue, St Georges Hall, and locals share stories of the impressive line-up of gigs they’ve been to here over the years. It’s a very grand and somewhat imposingly impressive edifice! Inside, it’s smart and cool with what feels like air-con but was probably in fact ambient temperature. Proceedings tonight, take place inside the Windsor Suite, a space slightly wider than it is long.

We take up our positions for viewing in time to catch an impressive set by support act Peace Talks who proceed to deliver a set of material which is gloriously noisy yet melodic.

There is rawness to their sound yet simultaneously a sense of refinement – with solid drums (Miles) and bass (Ryan), contrasting harmonic and at times dissonant layers of guitar (Danny and Calum), complimented by heartfelt vocal (Calum).

There is a sense of fun about them and they are having a blast up there tonight, which is clearly appreciated by the audience, who charitably sing happy birthday for front man Calum.

The crowd pack in tighter as Waltzinblack announces that it’s time for some antics in black. Starting with Toiler on The Sea the sound is very good and the band on fine form.

The set is very similar to previous nights with Curfew in the place of Four Horsemen once more etc Etc EiTC…

Up close and Personal the conclusion…

The crowd are packed tighter than a pack of very tight things and the temperature is rocketing. The boys are on fire both metaphorically and literally (well you know what I mean). During Nice and Sleazy JJ and Baz leave the stage and get involved with the audience once more, in an impressive pincer movement which concludes front and centre, where we happen to be standing, with Baz getting in our face and JJ getting a face full of Sarah before returning to the stage for the song’s conclusion.

At one point Baz spots Spooner and gives him a personal serenade (Happy Birthday Mr S!)… Dave and Jim are on fine form also tonight. The heat continues to rise. Baz’s banter sees him teasing the locals once more. The sweat is pouring from everywhere as the heat rises further. Worse places to be was something about Blackburn but unfortunately I missed it tonight while interacting with the crowd (comments please…).

So in summary, tonight was a marvellous conclusion to our four day jaunt around the beautiful north. The Stranglers and The Family go from strength to strength!

And it continues… The following morning at breakfast we meet up with Greatkudu and compare notes on a brilliant gig.

Now for some R&R of the other sort!

Over…

Words: EiTC.

Photos: Karlos and Matt.

Bonus:

Dont get animated - click — Dont get animated – click

Gig Review – The Stranglers/The Killer Meters – Holmfirth Picturedrome – 15th Jul 2015

Northern Road Trip Journal – Day 3

I Dream of Nora Batty in Black

Rising on a beautiful Yorkshire summer morning we set the Sugar Tongs for Holmfirth…

Up hill and down dale with relative ease and much scenic eye-candy, we eventually arrived at the fair town of Holmfirth to find that it had been handed over to the Family in Black for the day.

Pulling around the first bend into town we saw Mr and Mrs black on track standing on the corner. Parking and taking a quick recce, we then proceeded toward the venue where we encountered; Megabus Elaine, Pop-up Pete, Mr T, Mully, Kev, Al-and-Sal, Elliot, Lindsay and Martin and numerous others.

Then, suddenly, after calling in on Nora Batty to find no-one home, we were in India for pre-gig tiffin. We returned to Holmfirth, joining the queue for the gig. Tonight’s venue The Picturedrome last played host to The Stranglers in 2009, since then a little refurbishment has taken place and most importantly the entrance for gigs is now at the rear instead of the front, which caused a little confusion for a few of us, nothing major though. We made our way inside to say hello to the usual suspects up at the barrier.

Before too long support band The Killer Meters took the stage announcing “We’re The Killer Meters, we’re from Yorkshire and we sound like this!” as they kicked in to set opener Can’t Help It.

They delivered a set of high energy R&B which quickly won the audience over.

Material ranging from their 1977 single “Why Should It Happen To Me?” (and this is a slow one, well as slow as we get – Cardiac Arrest) to a brand new first airing of a new number about getting married at 60 and a song about their beloved scooters (of the Lambretta veriety).

A first class performance from an excellent band!

A quick set redress, lights out, Waltzinblack and bam! Toiler On The Sea.

The sound was very loud and very clear from my vantage point on JJ’s side of the stage. We were bathed in the bass!

The band were once more on a form most exceptional! Tight yet at ease, with a great sense of fun and especially tonight – mischief and menace in abundance.

A change to the set tonight as we got the awesome Curfew in place of Four Horsemen, would have preferred to have both but hey etc Etc EiTC.

Up close and personal again…

The camera pit betwixt stage and barrier was filled with flight cases tonight, so no room there for photographers or security. A rather large specimen of a security guard was sitting on the edge of the stage in front of Mr Burnel due to these space constraints. JJ teasingly danced right up to the back of his head and landed perilously close to him several times during some of his many stage leaps.

Baz complimented the local town and venue tonight, while his banter was on top form once again. We had a clear winner in the up close and personal stakes as he picked Purple Eileen as the winning hair style of the evening. Then he leapt off the stage on to the flight cases and walked over to Purple Eileen before nestling his head in her bosom (almost taking megabus Elaine and myself out with his headstock to boot, not that we were bothered), top notch! In another episode he teased the audience, at one point offering Mr Munro out for a fight, before they kissed and made up…

Breaking news, in a rarity of some note – worse places to be was actually – on the end of a skewer – tonight. More Baz and JJ fun as they huddled centre stage checking out a tiny thong that had been thrown their way. Baz cracked about their lack of soiling saying that they still had the price tag 2.99 C&A, further joking about this possibly being some kind of direction like L&R etc Etc EiTC…

Sound and performance was spot on once more. The newer material is fitting like a glove. Lost Control was particularly stonking tonight with all the anger and angst and the super sub bass (one young lady was heard to murmur, that song has a direct link to my clitoris…). And in a flash Hanging Around signalled the end of the main set…

For the encore we received the Walk On By treatment. Then JJ’s turn to leap on the flight cases, more extreme bass, No More Heroes and goodbye…

For the post-gig social we stayed in the lovely Picturedrome bar until the wee small hours!

Over…

Words: EiTC.

Photography: The Antro.

Bonus:

Click for Hello Chicken... — Click for Hello Chicken…

Gig Review – The Stranglers – The Venue Middlesbrough – 14th July 2015.

Northern Road Trip Journal – Day 2

Vive La Boro

Retreating from York in the early hours, we wound our way across the North York Moors to our secret Castle hideaway for a few hours shut eye. Awoken at the crack of dawn by a charitable Poet fellow who had mistakenly roused us to ensure we were up in time for a day’s work on the railroad! His heart was in the right place…

After taking in the sights of sunny Helmsley we partook of afternoon tea, then a quick siesta, before adjusting the sugar tongs to Paris 1789. France-ward we headed off but a malfunction caused us to divert to Middlesbrough in the present day etc Etc EiTC.

Our journey took us northeast across the stunning, jaw-dropping beauty of The Moors. The beauty of the countryside soon gave way to the stark industrial landscape of Middlesbrough and its surrounding areas, in its own way no less stunning!

Arriving at our destination we darted into the nearest Inn, where we met up with Mr and Mrs black on track and a few other faces from last night among the many others out for tonight’s gig.

A short while later we made our way to The Venue – the venue for the show tonight. In stark contrast to the Sauna of York, we found ourselves in the Fridge of Boro… The genteel southerners that Baz had teased at Hampton Pool could learn a thing or two about style and sophistication (and surreality) from The Venue, as not only did they provide all mod cons such as air-conditioning, they also had two gents toilets – one with troughs, the other with booths and both with a personal valet offering a range of lotions, potions and pleasantries to enhance your visit.

Unfortunately we arrived just in time to miss all but the closing bars of support act Zeitgeist 77 who sounded very good indeed and had the crowd right behind them.

We journeyed toward the barrier where we met up with Megabus Elaine and Purple Eileen.
Cheers as the lights dimmed, much bigger cheers as Waltzinblack struck up (for a teasingly long one tonight) and eventually The Men in Black!

Toiler and they were off. And tonight we were treated to a set similar to that of previous days.

Although The Venue itself is a large space, the stage is quite close to the barrier, so once again we had the feeling of it being up close and personal, albeit somewhat colder thanks to aforementioned air-con. And the sound tonight really was spot on, it was all there from the Bastille bass and the Brum drums to the Brighton keys and the Teesside Tele, absolutely flawless!

Mid set tonight after Golden Brown saw another extended remix, this time it was Dave’s pitch bend intro to Always The Sun going in slow-motion as he covered up for Baz’s guitar tuning, much to the amusement of the band. Although it was back to serious business with the normal radio edit of 5 Minutes tonight!

Baz had a good banter with the locals, being his near neighbours, all good natured and fun which would sum up tonight’s crowd quite nicely also. Similarly during Peaches, worse places to be was – or even working at fucking ICI (chatting with the Pauls in the post gig social they informed us that they had both been employed there in the dim and distant past)!

Again the band were very tight yet at ease and infectiously enjoying the moment, interacting with each other and the crowd. Sublime! Then Hanging Around and then they didn’t (hang around that is)! And the crowd were having none of that, as we all clapped, stomped, cheered and whilstled for more, which of course was duly paid off…

In celebration of July 14th Megabus Elaine had thoughtfully draped a fair sized tricolore across the front barrier. As the lads came back for encore, JJ gestured toward the said flag, which we duly passed up to him. He gave us a bit of banter in French, a quick history lesson and proceeded to sing us the opening lines of La Marsellaise, fucking brilliant! He then out Bazzed Baz in the regional teasing stakes and posed the question – What would you rather have a Frog or a Mackem?!

Tonight we got a super Walk On By with the IV in the zone and eyes closed during the superb musical section. Then we felt it big style as the bass was beaten to submission then teased into set closer No More Heroes. Splendid!

On exiting JJ came to the front and handed his pick to the young lad Elliot who’d been on the barrier all night with his dad. Then further icing on the cake for the young ‘un as Baz too came forward and handed over his plectrum, sweet! As a nut! Sorted!

Over…

Words: EiTC,

Photography: Karlos Antrobus.

Bonus:

Gig Review – The Stranglers – Fibbers York – 13th July 2015.

Northern Road Trip Journal – Day 1

The Grand Old Duke…

Landing at Harry Bell for an ungodly o’clock rendezvous with Antro, we set the Sugar Tongs for the heart of The North. Arriving at York without incident, we took in some of the sights and splendour this fair haven has to offer (mainly while trying to find somewhere to park and trying to find the venue).

Indeed we walked the walls and crossed the Ouse and back again. And on our journeys, dear old Apple Maps guided us to our destination, only it wasn’t our destination… yet it was… or at least it used to be! Finding ourselves at a location where the venue indeed once was, we arrived in time to catch a concert from the one and only Martha Reeves. Apparently confused and disoriented, a local passer-by took pity on us and offered us directions while giving us none and telling us about his day at work and to watch out for the Cyclists, while trying to engage us on Londres. Seeing an opportunity, we made a break for it and receiving some sound information from a sound engineer we headed in the direction of where the venue that used to be there is now!!!

En-route we chanced upon a Kathinboots and chums headed in the opposite direction in search of refreshment. Eventually we arrived at where it now is to discover a queue forming outside with KatieJJ and family at the head. We said hello then went to the pub next door for a bit of a social. Here we met up with The Owens, Campbell and The Pauls, Pauline and Sally plus many other good people, the vibe generally being good and one of excitement/anticipation for the coming attraction.

Inside the venue we discovered it was divided into two performance areas and support act The Hangnails would be in the smaller one while The Stranglers themselves would be in the main area. A great time saving device in terms of the practicalities of setting up and clearing away but from the perspective of the support act, somewhat flawed. That flaw being that we, along with a large section of tonight’s crowd went straight into the main area and missed the support act completely!

The main space itself was rather small, with the barrier being very close to a stage which was looking rather intimate and cosy, no feline swingers tonight!

On the dot of around about nine, the lights dimmed, Waltzinblack fired up and The Men in Black arrived. Toiler began a set very similar to the previous gigs in Worthing and Hampton. Once more we were treated to the extended remix of Five Minutes but alas the encore was sans Walk On By.

The Stranglers delivered a superb performance with energy and sparkle, while the crowd hung on every note and every word. And it was hot! Boy was it hot! (It was so hot in fact that, after the show I noted that I had been drier after coming out of the Sea at Worthing!) Buckets of sweat!

It was a real privilege to see the Stranglers up close and personal tonight, a privilege also to be with such a great crowd who may have been a little subdued by the heat. On which note the band appeared to be feeling the heat a little, at one point Baz turned to JJ and mouthed I’m dying up here! Worse places to be was – Sweating my Bollocks off in a tiny little night club! And he also shared with the audience that he was knackered by the heat! Nonetheless the band gave a cracking performance the sound was great and the crowd lapped it up. Oh and Jim’s drums particularly shone in Four Horsemen (while shining throughout the rest of the set of course).

When they were up they were most definitely up!

And had they ever been down, they would most certainly have been Down in The Sewer etc Etc EiTC.

Over…

Words: EiTC.

Photos: Karlos Antrobus.

Gig Review – The Stranglers/Nine Below Zero – Hampton Pool 11th July 2015

A Family Affair.

There are many different kinds of family of all shapes and sizes, near, dear and distant, blood ties and non-blood ties. Stranglers fans are referred to as the Family in Black and like most other types of family they have their unique mix of quirky characters brought together by a familial bond, which in this case is the bonhomie and camaraderie of a mutual shared passion/obsession.

Today The Stranglers and Nine Below Zero are playing at Hampton Open Air Swimming Pool in the suburban south west of London not far from the banks of the river Thames. A beautiful setting for an open air gig in this (apparently) genteel corner of England. And it’s a beautiful summer day, perfect picnic weather to boot.

There is a good mix of families here at a function that resembles something like your eccentric Uncle’s barbecue but on a grand scale. Deck chairs, blankets, hampers and a whole load of people chilling and enjoying themselves including some enjoying a swim in the pool. All of which makes for a strangely charming setting for tonight’s concert.

Continuing on the familial theme, there are three generations of my own family here tonight. While on the subject of the settings/surroundings, my own dear Pater (rest his soul) was a resident of Hampton for a while and being a regular swimmer, would take a dip in the heated open-air pool here in the depths of Winter.

Up first Nine Below Zero deliver the goods with their patented brand of no-nonsense straight up Rhythm and Blues, perfect for a summer afternoon/evening.

Tonight their Mojo is most definitely in good working order with brilliant bass-work, dynamic drumming and sublime blues-harp providing the perfect vehicle for front-man/guitarist Dennis Greaves as they play on into the setting sun.

Dusk into nightfall and the approaching darkness sees the arrival of The Stranglers and the crowd begin to pack themselves in tightly down at the front. Waltzinblack and they’re off!

Starting with Toiler the energy and bearing of the band are upbeat and infectious. They’re clearly enjoying themselves and it is the sort of enjoyment that is infectious for the crowd who respond with a mighty mosh of momentous proportions (the antithesis of the afore-mentioned gentility)!

The sound is glorious tonight; JJ’s bass is growling and prominent just as it was at Eden a couple of weeks ago, perhaps something to do with being outdoors. Dave’s keys have a clarity and are present in all the right places. Baz’s Tele bites and soars. And Jim’s drums are pounding and powerful.

The front men have the stage covered from all angles interacting with the crowd, themselves and their band-mates. Baz’s banter goes from strength to strength as he teases the locals with his mock BBC English Accent (passable but with his north-eastern twang still evident). Again we get the Twelve Inch mix of Five Minutes with it’s extended intro etc Etc EiTC…

All too soon we’re at the encore and tonight we get a mesmerising Walk On By (missing from last nights set at Worthing) as band and crowd alike enter a trance-like state during the fantastic extended musical section. Bass beating, No More Heroes and Goodnight.

Great fun and happy times in Hampton…

Over…

Words: EiTC.

B&W Photos: Andy Miller.

Colour Photos (for gif sequence): Mr T.

Colour NBZ: EiTC.

More Photos…

From Mr T:

From Andy Miller:

Gig Review – The Stranglers – Worthing Assembly Hall – 10th July 2015

A Day At The Seaside with Pebbles and No Ice Cream.

Swooping by the SiB residence at a reasonable hour of the morning, we set the Tongs for 1978. Following an overheat malfunction in the sugar distribution unit (brought about by what historians now know to be an extremely rare temporal fluctuation otherwise known as the English summer), we somehow ended up at Woolworths, Worthing…

…Anxiety began to set in as I realised that inside at the record section, was a younger self duly handing over hard earned pocket money to get his grubby mitts on a copy of Black and White. Feeling the potential grip of the Temporal Investigation Team (TITs) upon my collar, I hastily set the chronometer forwards and we landed 37 years in the future Worthing on a Sunny Summers day…

… We took an afternoon promenade along the sea front and headed for a cup of tea on the pier where we caught up with Bat and Kill, in a strange coincidence in black. Following a quick Recce, taking in the delights of Worthing, Sib and me dipped a toe in the briny. After drying off and walking on the beaches etc Etc EiTC…

…We caught a Pigeon, before meeting up with a whole host of Family in Black down at the local watering hole.

Venturing to the Assembly Hall to take in a performance by The Stranglers, we took up a spot on the barrier with Guildford Lil, Megabus Elaine and Straightenout to misname a few.

Although reasonably spacious in the Assembly Halls, tonight it was fairly hot and sticky and the crowd was yet to fill out.

I looked at the stage and saw in front of a me a guitarist’s amplifier stack consisting of Dual – Dual Rectifiers and a large cab and felt a slight pang of concern at having not brought ear plugs. As it (happily) turned out, this concern was unwarranted.

The said rig belonged to Tim Green, Axe wielder with tonight’s support act, the superb Brighton band The Last Cry. Tim harnessed the power at his finger tips with restraint and subtlety to a degree of perfection as he spun textures of darkness and light from his sonic armoury. While the solid bass and tech magic of Chris Carey combined to provide the musical juice comprising a dark atmospheric sound.

This was topped off by the exceptionally passionate performance of front man Andrew Birch. While visually there is something of Vincent Price about him, Andrew’s strong vocals and animated stage presence range from tormented to manic via blunt force trauma. Most captivating!

Recruited by none other than Jet Black himself for tonight’s show, The Last Cry gave a solid performance which warmed up the crowd nicely for the main event.

And the warming up continued as the crowd swelled, the lights dimmed and Waltzinblack…

A cheer and then lights up and JJ kicked off (literally) a One Two of Toiler on The Sea and Straighten Out. Awesome! No let up as barely a breath is drawn before Grip and the delightful I’ve Been Wild. The band are on hot form tonight, tight enough to convince yet relaxed enough to enjoy.

Up next the beautiful curve ball that is Four Horsemen goes down well. Unrelentingly they continue with a highly charged Relentless.

Then Jim cranks up Nice and Sleazy and there’s a noticeable up-tempo feel to it tonight which works nicely. During Dave’s keyboard passage, JJ and Baz make their way front and centre for some direct menacing of the crowd, which is most effective!

Hits time as Golden Brown gets a convincing sing-along from the crowd. As does Always The Sun.

JJ takes up the vocals next for 5 minutes complete with an (heat related?) extended intro moment as the band smile at each other knowingly, nonetheless the goods are well and truly delivered. Then a false start sees the keyboard gremlins appear momentarily before vanishing as Freedom Is Insane chugged along nicely like the well oiled crowd pleaser it has become. Time To Die next and then the vocal baton is passed back to Baz for Norfolk Coast which tonight they nail, it’s great when you get to see a band really enjoy delivering the goods like this.

A blistering IFLAW precedes a slight easing in pace/atmosphere for Skin Deep. JJ is on fire tonight performance wise as he is leaping, karate kicking, and shuffling in a manner that would test someone a third of his age! He also engages the audience with an intense stare and an air of menace and edge, all the while never too far from a smile. And continuing in this vein he makes his way to the centre where he asks a young lady at the front if the man standing behind her is her Father, to which she nervously replies in the negative, as he fires up one of the most famous bass lines ever – Peaches. Where, worse places to be seems to have been God’s changing Room??? (As opposed to God’s Waiting Room, a nickname for much of the South Coast.) Much to JJ and Baz’s amusement…

Baz is on fine form also; String-wise, vocal-wise and humour-wise as he teases the Worthingites about their town. As is Dave with his keyboards shining in all the right places. And Jim too, keeping everything in time and adding the occasional BV here and there.

A brilliant Time Was Once On My Side before an extended guitar intro from Baz leads in to Lost Control with all it’s mania and superb sub-bass. Two more classics in the shape of Duchess and Hanging Around round out the main set.

As the crowd holler, whistle and wail for more, Baglady and myself postulate as to what we may hear in the encore; we’re thinking maybe Curfew and Walk On By when such postulations are curtailed by JJ’s bass pounding, signalling the set closer with No More Heroes and it’s Good Night Worthing. A very good Night Indeed!

A good few of us straggle back to the local watering hole and extend the night further with tales and camaraderie in black. Then we flit off our separate ways into the night. Sib and Me seeing Henry The Forge safely home before setting the Sugar Tongs back to the present in the vicinity of The Big Smoke via The Sticks.

Over…

MiB B&W Photography courtesy of Andy Miller.

Words and other Photos: EiTC