Gig Report: Rodrigo Y Gabriela

Date: Thursday 13 December, 2007, 9pm
Venue: Academy 1
Face value: £18.00(ish) + booking fee
Support Act: no idea - sorry!
Gig buddy: Phil, Dan and Claire (this is getting to be a good habit)

Given the number of artists touring - more likely due to the profit margins exceedings those of album sales - it's fairly rare that I will buy tickets for a band or artist that I have already seen. Especially within 6 months. Unless of course, they are REALLY REALLY good. Allow me to re-introduce Rodrigo Y Gabriela, the Mexican born Irish-living artists who spent years busking before making it. Playing in some of the coldest and most testing conditions on the streets of Copenhagen, they were eventually recognised rightfully for their talent and now play world tours and popular US television shows such as Jay Leno and David Letterman. So refreshing to hear artists with this much passion and ability, that I simply had to see them again. My first report details my amazement at the techniques used, and it was just as inspiring, second time round. Starting slower than I had anticipated, there was initially no camera projection on the screens behind to aid us vertically challenged people in the crowd, but this was soon fixed and we were able to enjoy the engaging visual treat that is Rod and Gab's (for want of a better word) strumming. To show you exactly what I am talking about, watch the youtube video below. If you have ever picked up a guitar, you will understand the degree of difficulty that is involved here.

The amazing thing about a gig like this is that there is no singing whatsoever, and it's not missed. There is atmosphere, adoration and a healthy amount of accoustic metal to make everyone happy. You haven't lived until you have heard this duo perform Stairway to Heaven.

As both Dan and Claire are guitar enthusiasts, I could see from their grins that they really enjoyed the show. Thing is, if Rodrigo and Gabriela came back next month, I'd get tickets again, no question.

Rating: 4 and a half passionate guitars. (Half a guitar subtracted for not having the visuals for the entire performance).

Gig Report: Powderfinger

Date: Monday 10 December, 2007, 9.30pm
Venue: Academy 2
Face value: £18.50 + booking fee
Support Act: The Outline
Gig buddy: Phil, Dan and Claire

On the gig calendar this year, this concert was going to be one of the highlights for me. It's been 3 years since I saw them rock the Hammersmith Apollo and I'm feeling rather homesick (soon to be remedied). Meeting our new-found gig buddies at Kro Bar (opposite the Academy) I'm disappointed to find that the strawberry beer has run out. Mild disaster, though I'm consoled with a vodka based replacement. Phil's feeling awful because he's picked up a nasty cold that he can't shake. Plus, I have that nervous anticipation you get when you introduce friends to a band you like and are really hoping that they 'get it'. Regardless, we enter the Academy and after some frustrating negotiation with the 'will-call' window to pick up extra tickets, we procure some drinks at the bar and catch some of the support act, The Outline. To be honest, I wasn't really listening to them, so I can't really offer a review - though they clearly weren't offensive or my memory would serve me better.

The Academy 2 is packed, and it seems that the fans are really tall people. At least where I was standing, til I worked my way down the side closer to the front. Plenty of Australian accents in the crowd, but the overtly friendly vibe of the London shows I have seen before is absent tonight. Don't get me wrong, it's not rowdy enough to feel unsafe, but it appears that the 'bogans' who have entered the UK have migrated north. The first few songs come from the new album which it appears not everyone has bought a copy of (nevermind - it's available for a tenner at the merchandise stand). I'm surprised that the main single from the album (Lost and Running) is performed early in the show, and slightly disappointed it isn't rocked out as much as it could be. The rest of the show follows with Bernard and company performing the best of the back catalogue (there's plenty to choose from) and a sprinkling of new tunes, all interspersed with crowd appreciation, comments on the fall of our Prime Minister (this is apparently very popular) and a reasonable light show - though the strobish effect on Bernard's face was a little much for the eyes.

After the main set, the boys very endearingly suggested that instead of faffing around with an encore, per correct gig protocol where we cheer and clap for 5 minutes to entice them back onto the stage, that they simply turn the lights down, we clap a little bit and they get on with it. Nice. This new approach goes down well and we are treated to a couple of more tracks before it's all over.

Overall, it's probably my nostalgia for Australia that makes up a large part of my love for this band, because despite being Australia second most successful rock band (after Silverchair) the show wasn't the best I have ever seen. Don't get me wrong, they are a very accomplished band and the sound was great, but they are no Foo Fighters.

Rating: 3 proud Australian guitars.

Gig Report: Sia

Date: Tuesday 27 November, 2007, 9pm
Venue: Night and Day Cafe, Manchester
Face value: £11.00(ish) + booking fee
Support Act: Half Cousin
Gig buddy: Phil

Tuesday night and I'm excited. I'm also being cheeky in going because I should be studying hard for the intensive training course I am on, but this is the one gig in the calendar I've been waiting for the most - and I swear I had tickets before my course was postponed to this date. Honest. Anyway, I'm so excited I'm queuing before the doors open. (Yes, really). I've declined a drink (shocking!) at the bar next door because I am determined that I am going to get a VERY good position down the front. And so, we wait in the cool evening for the Night and Day Cafe to open. A queue forms behind us and it's a real mixed crowd. I'm just pleased she has so many fans.

Sia, who some people will recognise vocally from the Zero7 albums (she can be found on all 3) is a solo performer in her own right (I have the early recorded work to prove this) and her dates in London and Manchester sold out quickly. Oddly enough, as we enter the venue, Sia herself is sitting near the entrance, happily chatting on the internet and she seems to be in a great mood. Soon she de-camps and heads backstage to prepare. The support act is awful and the tracks are a carbon copy of each other, so we remain seated on the bench at the side throughout. I'm not bothered, I'm here for Sia, nothing else.

After a short interval, the lights go down, a black light is used and dressed in black and neon outfits, Sia and the band enter the stage. I can't explain this well enough, so a picture is absolutely necessary here... suffice to say it was the funniest entrance I have seen for a while..

The set is a very creative arrangement of neon flowers, making it seem more like she was singing in a summer garden than a bar in cold, dark Northern England. In short, it worked and suits her quirky fun style perfectly. Littering the front of the stage was a collection of soft toys... weird, but strangely cute.

Sia's new album (due out very soon, though pirate versions are already found on the internet, which Sia doesn't seem bothered too much by) is featured on the set list quite a bit - fair play, if you have a new album, plug it. Sia managed to do this and keep the fans happy with a good selection of the back catalogue including some Zero7 tracks, though I nearly fell off my bench (I was standing at this point) when she did 'Taken For Granted' from the Healing is Difficult album. I'll be buying the new album as soon as I can, hopefully it will be available in hard copy.

Hearing Sia's impressively strong vocals would give rise to suspicion that this artist could be a total diva, however in reality they are in stark contrast to her giggly affectionate nature. In short - not a hint of superiority anywhere from the gratitude towards her band and fans to the frequent personal anecdotes allowing us to get to know her a little better. And if that didn't convince you, Sia's dancing would prove that there was no ego on stage at all.. it really is refreshing to witness an artist that doesn't take themself too seriously.

So, this in mind, I was struggling to find a reason why this wouldn't be a 5 star rating. And I failed. There was simply no flaw in the entire evening and I cannot think of a gig that could top it (though Bic Runga's Brighton Spiegaltent performance would equal it). And then one thing confirmed that this was truly worthy of a full 5 points. I met Sia and she signed everything I brought with me. She even spent time chatting to me and when I told her I saw her in Leeds after surgery on my foot and stood for the show, she asked me to private message her on her MySpace page and she will make sure I get a seat next time.

So, all in all...

Rating: 5 neon flowers and some funky dance moves.

Sia - I bet her christmas tree at home is way cool... (or 'rad' as we Aussies might say)

Am I shocked to meet her? What do you think? The deer in headlights on the left should answer it...

Gig Report: Newton Faulkner

Date: Saturday 24 November, 2007, 9pm
Venue: Manchester Academy 2
Face value: £11.00(ish) + booking fee
Support Act: no idea, but she was a dead (vocal) ringer for Alanis Morrisette
Gig buddy: Phil

I've got a lot of catching up to do on this blog, and where better to start than Newton Faulkner who we saw at Manchester's Academy 2 on the 24th of last month. As indicated by the inflated ticket prices available on the internet (some going for 6 times the face value we paid!) and dates for a new tour already out, the venue was heaving. We managed to squeeze ourselves forward to the half way mark to hear Newton delighting the crowd with a percussive whacking of his guitar, rendering any backing support redundant. It's clear that this guy is seriously good. Every song delivered flawlessly and interspersed with endearing interaction with the crowd - he seems to be a genuinely nice person. What's captivating further is his voice - strong and clear, it's amazing and compliments his songs perfectly. Couple that with compelling guitar techniques (some sections of his work seem to involve only the neck of the guitar) and you have a gig not to be missed.

Unfortunately the venue was a bit too small and overcrowded... I began to feel nauseus and had to exit the room a couple of times for fresh air. I don't have a set list for this one, though highlights were definitely 'Dream Catch Me' and 'U.F.O' - and my personal favourite 'She's Got Time'.

Overall: This gig could not fail to please - I implore you to see him at least once.
Rating: 4 guitars

Gig Report: David Gray

Date: Saturday 10 November, 2007, 8pm
Venue: Manchester Apollo
Face value: £27.50 + booking fee
Support Act: David Gray (accoustic)
Gig buddy: Phil (reluctantly)

Saturday night and it's the gig I bought tickets to anticipating a solo attendance on account of Phil being elsewhere, though fortunately (for me!) his plans fell through and he's joining me, though I'm still not allowed to carry the house key. (Read the Kate Nash review to find out why...)

Luckily we checked who the support act was going to be and made good speed to head there in time to catch the full accoustic warm-up of David Gray himself. A good thing that he's supporting himself - the main show was a mere hour and twenty minutes, but once you hear him accoustic all is forgiven for a short main set. Mostly new tracks in the accoustic part of the show, though pleasingly he does one of his biggest hits, 'Babylon' and it is received very well.

Because I got tickets early through the fan site we're seated upstairs in the Circle section towards the front so I'm very happy - we've got an excellent view of the stage. As it turns out, some rowdy men are in the back of the stalls area downstairs and apparantly a fight broke out. Yes, at a David Gray concert. A fight. Whatever next? A mosh pit at a José Gonzalez gig? It does beg the question what the men were doing there in the first place when by all accounts they talked throughout the concert and it was when someone asked them to quiet down that the trouble started. In any case, the people upstairs were not affected and the show continued with David delivering a very solid set, decked out in a sharp modern three-piece Saville Row suit - his band dressed similarly - making me feel a little embarassed that I'd not put more effort in to my own appearance. David's eagerness throughout the show to ensure everyone was having a great time only surpassed by his vocal strength and musical talent, alternating between playing guitar and piano. In short, a great concert and by the look on Phil's face at the end, I've redeemed myself. He may even let me hold the house keys again.

Rating: 4 guitars

Setlist

Accoustic Support set

Shine
Ain't No Love
A Thousand Miles Behind
As I'm Leaving
Babylon
Long Distance Call
A new song - no title mentioned. The song was dedicated to his friend Brian Clancy who had died in early 2006.

Main set:
World
Sail
Toil
Slow Motion
Radio
Be Mine
T.Y.L
Everytime
Hospital
Destroyer
Otherside
encore:
Nightblindness
Forgive Me

Gig Report: Kate Nash

Date: Monday 5 November, 9.30pm
Venue: Manchester Academy 1
Face Value: £10.00
Support Act: something that sounded like vinyl being tortured
Gig buddy: Phil

This gig report should really be titled: Why I have the Best Boyfriend In The World. See, it's not often that you find a gig buddy that will willingly go along to anything you buy tickets for. The jazz trombone performance and Lily Allen show both notable examples, but a grown man appeasing you by attending a Kate Nash concert is something else - this is equivalent of sitting through 5 episodes of Sex And The City, Sleepless in Seattle and Gone With the Wind all while you test out your nail polish on him. But as it turned out, his commitment went much deeper.... here's what happened.

We enter the temporary Academy 1 (the actual one I am told is being re-furbed) and it's immediately clear we are the oldest people in here. By a long way. The kids are wearing t-shirts using the word 'gay' like they've only just realised that the word has another meaning. (I remember our primary school song had us all singing how gay we were until the mid 80's.) The support act on stage are screeching unintelligibly while their guitars sound more like a cat stuck in a combine harvester - a very strange warm-up for a plinky-plonky pianist. Enough said. We queue at the bar/moshpit for a LONG time while the grossly incompetant teenage staff form their own queue on the other side to all use the same till. Phil gets to the front first and buys me two drinks so I don't have to endure it again in 20 minutes time.

The build up to Kate's set is painfully theatrical - way over the top for what's about to come. She enters the stage to sit at her velvet-clad digital stage piano, her broad smile exciting the glo-stick waving lookalikes that are EVERYWHERE. And then she kicks off with Mariella, which is (almost) too awful for words. The MEN have described it as 'minor technical problems', which is being very very kind. The piercing feedback remained for most of the first track while the guy on the sound desk tried everything including switching Kate's microphone off to trace the offending frequency. Eventually he succeeded, though his lack of mixing skills were now obvious. Remembering our troubles stage-right at the Polly Paulusma gig, I decided to relocate us to a more favourable position, such was the poor quality of sound. It didn't make a scrap of difference though - and it left me wondering whether it was the venue, until Phil reminded me that we have seen Dave Matthews and Mika here who both sounded amazing.

So, sound issues aside, was it a good performance? No. As most people will know, Kate took up the guitar less than 2 years ago when she broke her leg. It's now clear she spent little if not less time learning the piano - her clumsy incessant chords almost an insult to those of us who have spent decades playing. Phil's just as annoyed by the guitar-led song featuring a total of 2 chords. Though Kate can work an audience (frankly it didn't take more than saying 'how COLD is it today' to receive a cheer from this E-number addicted crowd), she has no control over the microphone. As you'd expect with a short album, the show was mercifully quick and we were soon on our way out.

Overall: Go if you are 12 years old and think that using obscenities in lyrics is 'edgy'. Don't go if you appreciate good music and carry weapons. The album sounds much better, stay at home and put it on shuffle.

Rating: 1 single chord playing guitar

Yes, Phil's a saint for coming with me and not complaining at all, but this isn't the end of the story of why he's the Best Boyfriend In The World. Noooo sireeee. After treating him to a post-gig kebab we arrive home to discover that the house key I had in my jacket is now missing. Keep in mind, Phil has to be up really really early to drive 3 hours south for an important meeting. The key is our only way into the flat and I'm certain it must have fallen out when I took my jacket off. At the gig. Cue a rally-style drive back to the Academy where the front entrance is closed. I then find some security guards who tell me to scarper round the back and manage to talk my way inside. The venue has been swept clean and my heart sinks as I realise that the chances of finding a key on a small grey fob are very slim. Amazingly, the bar staff are still milling about and in a giant stroke of luck, my key HAD been spotted and was waiting for me at the bar. Massive relief follows as I run back to the car where Phil is still patiently waiting. It only occurs to me on the way home that despite the massive inconvenience and cost this would have caused, Phil was not even slightly mad at me. All I got was 'next time put it in your jeans pocket' and that's it. (!!!) I ask him why he was so calm. He laughs and tells me he was concentrating on deciding precisely where to kick the door in.

Photo courtesy of NME.com

Foo Fighters!

Yep - in a pleasant turn of fate, the rock gods have smiled on me by way of a friend who has two spare tickets to the Foo Fighters tomorrow night. We have gratefully lunged at them for the tickets, because despite the fact that it's at the MEN arena (not my favourite place on account of venue size and price of beer) it will rock very much indeed.

I shall spend the rest of the day curled in the foetal position, swaying gently chanting: 'The Foos are coming'.

Gig Report: José González

Date: Thursday 25 October, 9.00pm
Venue: Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM)
Face Value: £16.00
Support Act: sorry, I missed it
Gig buddy: Phil

Remember when Top Of The Pops was taken off the air? Remember how we all wondered how we would acquaint ourselves with new music coming out? Well, the answer to this question appears in the ad breaks obviously as I survey the sold out RNCM venue for last night's José González gig. José, a Swedish-born artist with strong Argentine heritage who became a household name thanks largely to a Sony Bravia TV ad featuring his version of 'Heartbeats', is on tour and I was one of the lucky 600 or so to get tickets at the RNCM to see him. The power of television. (Just me or is all Swedish talent being plundered for a 30 second soundtrack of commericalism? SAAB being a notable inclusion on this list using both Oh Laura and Nina Kinert to help push their sales.)

Anyway, I'm going to say at the outset that I enjoyed this gig. It was fabulous - and here's why.

The venue - it's 100% perfect for the humble artist before us, every finger pluck is an accoustic joy to the ears when heard in a theatre built to show off a technical performance. The pitch-black Bruntwood Theatre demands all attention on the artist who is reluctantly bathing in a single spotlight for much of the show. The stage set is simplistic, mirroring the music - it's effectively a giant black sheet with 3 white spindly pine trees on it. A little bit Blair Witch-ish but I doubt this is an intentional homage. Still it adds a spooky feel to the already intense music.

José begins by playing mainly new tracks from his second album 'In Our Nature' for the first half of the show, but returns to the first album 'Veneer' and even throws in his version of Kylie Minogue's 'Put Your Hand On Your Heart', which is available as a single. Normally a niggle of mine when an artist remains silent between tracks, but José tries and struggles with the language barrier, so all is forgiven and we watch instead as he carefully re-tunes his guitar.

For some of the performance José is joined on stage by two performers who add a percussive element - a guy called Eric (he's a dead ringer for Randy on My Name Is Earl) who deftly plays the bongos and a diminuitive barefooted girl who strikes a small wooden block in her lap (I get the feeling she played the triangle in her school band). Both add some very subtle backing vocals and don't overtake the show.

Overall: Though I shouldn't make comparisons, he's a modern day Nick Drake, perfect autumnal music - quirky time signatures, mellow guitar and a totally hypnotic sound.

Rating: 3 and a half chilled guitars.

Gig Report: KT Tunstall

Date: Friday 19 October, 9.00pm
Venue: Manchester Apollo Theatre
Face Value: £19.50
Support Act: King Creosote
Gig buddy: Phil

Rounding out the biggest week in Rocktober for us (3 gigs in 5 days - very silly!) we meet up with friends in town for some pre-gig drinks and stay longer than expected... cue dash for ATM/taxi/venue in time to get another drink and completely miss the support act (King Creosote). I'm not fussed as I've never heard of them, but Phil's face shows disappointment.

Nevermind - we enter the standing area of the Apollo which is 1) rammed and 2) very hot. No idea why they had heating on, this was only going to get hotter.

Sadly we hadn't had a chance to listen to the new album (Drastic Fantastic) on account of the ongoing postal strike (Royal Mail - get back to work already!!) so we were all ears open for the newer tracks coming our way. KT enters the stage, complete with sparkly dress, cowgirl boots and a broad smile. She's entertaining, funny and spontaneous, creating clever loops with her pedals and at all times aware of her audience's mood. She's also got the old stuff/new stuff mix just right and all tracks delivered with aplomb, even the ones she must surely be sick of playing like 'Black Horse and a Cherry Tree'. Also impressive is the number of guitars she brings out on stage - the mirrored one being my favourite. Definitely best gig of the week, even if the people up the back clearly weren't into it (curious thing that the atmosphere improved in factors of 10 the closer we got to the front).

We also learnt a couple of handy hints for anyone new to the gig scene... if there is a space closer to the front that appears to be sparsely populated it's because:

a) the closest guy smells really really bad, or

b) the closest couple are having a massive domestic argument and about to start swinging

Overall: Top gig - lots of fun, great stage and lighting, but get closer to the front so as to avoid people who are too afraid to show they are having a great time (and snigger at those who are).

Rating: 4 spangly guitars

(Thanks to the people on the KT Tunstall.com forum for the pictures - I didn't have a camera on me and my photography is usually rubbish anyway).

Gig Report: Ray Lamontagne

Date: Wednesday 17 October, 9.00pm

Venue: Manchester Apollo Theatre

Face Value: £18.50

Support Act: Sarabeth something

Gig buddy: Phil

Oh dear, I'm loathe to even report this gig, it was one of the poorest I've been to in a while..

We arrived at one of our favourite venues (Apollo) in enough time to grab a drink (I'm still on the soft variety) and settle in our seats for the support act who is a dreary sounding singer-songwriter type. I wondered whether I was too harsh in saying that she sounded like Beth Orton in a coma. That is until Phil narrows his eyes, shakes his head and says "ooooh, she's not THAT good".

Fine, support act over and Ray takes the stage without any fuss and begins to play. His voice everything we had hoped for and the sound (we're directly behind the mixing desk) is perfect. Sadly, that's about as positive as I can be about the evening. With no stage set to add interest to the show, the focus is on the artist who is barely distinguishable from the rest of the band (he's hardly even facing his audience) - in fact it feels more like we've wandered into a rehearsal. 5 songs in and he remembers to introduce the band, but barely any acknowledgement to the crowd that have paid nearly £20 a head to see him. Given the current climate where artists are making more money from touring than album sales (thanks largely to the piracy and cheap downloads available) it would be nice if there was a little gratitude.

Now, I'm a big fan of a little variation on the album and other than a heavy steel guitar inserted into most tracks (which was SUPER annoying) there was no discernable difference vocally - in fact we wished we stayed home and put his two CDs on shuffle.

The other issue with the gig was that it was fully seated - this did not help build any atmosphere whatsoever (in the complete absence of any on stage), so instead of grooving away, we were politely sitting in our seats like it was a royal variety performance. Mind you, with the excessive steel guitar, I worry that people might have started line dancing. I was almost glad when the set ended - and slightly annoyed that the delay for encore was a little protracted. This may have been a common feeling as many people had begun to leave after the first encore even though the house lights had not come up - yep, a second encore was on the way. (Why!!? Could he not tell that a funeral parlour has more atmosphere than his gig!?)

Overall: Miss this gig - total snoozefest! The most interesting part of the gig was that the drummer was wearing a bowler hat... enough said. Perhaps Miss Tunstall will show us the way on Friday night.. Stay tuned!

Rating: 2 guitars

Gig Report: Nizlopi

Date: Monday 15 October, 8.00pm
Venue: Night and Day Cafe (Northern Quarter)
Face Value: £10.00
Support Act: Jimmy Davis
Gig buddy: Phil, of course

A new venue for us - the Night and Day Cafe on Oldham Street provides mild excitement for me as it will also be the setting for a performance by Sia next month. It's in an area of town we don't frequent so often only because we can't be bothered walking this far and are still exploring the city's offerings closer to our doorstep. It's a rainy Monday night and on account of a rather large weekend, I gladly offer to drive to this one - I'm definitely not ready to get back on the sauce so soon. Night and Day turns out to be a small(ish) dark, bohemian bar full of main-stream alternative types (dreadlocks and clean shoes for example) but the natives are friendly enough so we join a table and settle in for the support act. Enter Jimmy Davis - a Mike Skinner (The Streets) sound-a-like. Or rap-a-like. That aside, his lyrics are passionate, delivered well and rhyme (hey - I never said I was a massive fan of this style of music). After a brief break, Nizlopi enter the room. That's right - not the stage, the room. They've decided to go beyond a simple 'Hi we're Nizlopi and we're pleased to be here' and have brought their guitar and double bass into the audience to generate even more enthusiasm. Sans microphone, Luke Concannon (vocals, guitar) and John Parker (double bass) kick off their performance with gusto, inviting everyone to get closer. The pair eventually make their way onto stage and give a very spirited performance, songs largely from their album (Half These Songs Are About You), a couple of new ones and a brilliant cover of 'Kiss'. Towards the end, a second adventure in the audience for a couple of tunes before returning to the stage, some audience participation and a final song. Encore of course is the only track to make the charts, 'JCB' but it's enough to leave everyone on a total high.
Overall: Nice sound - super strong vocals, loads of passion (mostly about climate change) and an act that really cares that the audience are enjoying the show. Oh and the venue is fantastic!

Rating: 3 environmentally friendly guitars. Why not 4? Sound and lighting slightly disappointing - not really the band's fault, and some guy (presumably with the band/record company) snapping away like his life depended on it - very very distracting. A couple of pictures, sure, but this was relentless. OK, fine. 3 and a half environmentally rocking guitars. :)

Gig Report: Damien Rice

Date: Thursday 11 October, 8.30pm
Venue: MEN arena

Face Value: £23.50 plus admin fees

Support Act: Vyvienne Long

Gig buddy: Phil, of course

I must preface this report by saying my expectations were lowered by a number of factors:

1) there was some rather negative feedback on other performances in his tour on Damien's own website forum which stated that he appeared to be going through the motions, ignored the audience and left people annoyed

2) it's in an arena - I prefer smaller venues

3) I noticed people selling tickets on eBay for less than face value and ticketmaster had not sold out - not a good sign

So, that out of the way, we grabbed some overpriced beverages and settle in for the support act, who is the cellist in Damien's band, Vyvienne Long. She's talented and her quirky lyrics from her debut EP 'Birdtalk' are amusing. Additionally she plays 'Random Man on the Motorway' to much enjoyment. It's clear to see why she's a natural choice for support.

Enter Damien for the main act and 2 songs in, not a word of 'hello' from him. Fortunately he breaks his silence soon and is chatty for the rest of the show, musing on how depressing his music is, his Irish upbringing and even taking requests from the arena (which he thinks is much too large). One girl screamed for a track called 'I Remember' which was misheard by Damien as 'La Bamba' and though it was clarified, he obliged with an inpromptu performance of 'La Bamba' anyway. As you can see from the set list below, there was a good mix old and new, with the favourites being: 'Amie', 'Cannonball' and of course no performance would be complete without 'Blower's Daughter', played in the encore which curiously enough finished on 'Cheers Darlin' - delivered part theatre-style after we had been relayed the story behind the song. A perfect way to end a much better than expected performance.

Overall: Seems Damien has been a bit 'hit and miss' on the tour - by his own admission on stage as well he describes himself as sometimes depressed though oddly he believes that this makes a better performance. The Manchester show however was a hit - Damien's incredible voice making the evening out totally worth it. Anyone who was expecting the musical equivalent of a nice cup of tea was in for a shock - Damien and the band rocked out a lot more than I would have expected from hearing both albums. The only downside is the venue - far too large for this type of music. Attendance was 6000 (the arena holds up to 20000) so it felt a bit cavernous.

Setlist:

Delicate

Then Go

Older Chests

Volcano

Me, My Yoke and I

Dogs

Amie

Accidental Babies

La Bamba

I Remember

Coconut Skins

Woman Like A Man

Cannonball

Unplayed Piano

The Blower's Daughter

Sleep Don't Weep

Cheers Darlin'

Rating (out of 5): 4 guitars

Gig Report: Ani Difranco

Date: Saturday 6 October, 9pm

Venue: Quays Theatre, The Lowry (Salford Quays)
Face Value: £18.50 plus admin fees
Support Act: Hemmil on Trial
Gig buddy: Phil

Saturday night and we're off to a new venue for us, Quays Theatre at The Lowry in Salford Quays. It's a bit of a trek from the city centre, but is well worth the effort. The funky modern designed building looks more like a giant child's toy and begs you to explore it's glowing orange and purple interior. Soon we enter the smaller than expected Quays Theatre (I'm dead excited about this as I prefer a more intimate performance) and take our plush pink seats (the whole theatre is pink) for the show.

Warming up for Ms Difranco this evening is the irreverant and avant-garde artist 'Hemmil on Trial' - part stand up comedian and part rock and roll musician. 100% pure alternative politics. He's sure to make the more timid audience member blush with his full frontal subject matter, but we find him pretty funny and his energy is amazing - seemingly punishing his guitar to within an inch of its life. By the way, the crowd is a real mix of people - more men than I have ever seen at an Ani gig but the lighting was fairly low, so some of them might not have been.

With minimal delay, Ani enters the stage with a drummer and a double bass player - that's it. Frankly though, it's enough - Ani's always been the kind of performer that doesn't need much (if any) support. I first saw her 10 years ago in a university bar in Canberra (Australia) and its fantastic to see that she has lost none of the passion for live performance in all these years - she's an artist that tours more than any I know of, living almost entirely on the road. How she manages to put out an album every year is beyond me. Though the style is less agressive these days, she's lost none of the impact and none of the energy. Engaging frequently with the audience to answer questions and share personal anecdotes, she keeps us laughing between songs which she delivered flawlessly. The complex key of her songs (and this is only something I have learnt from having tried to play them) means every song requires a guitar change (she's brought 6 with her) and thanks to some guy stage-left re-tuning constantly, there is no delay in the set at any point. The set list is a good mix of old and new - though it's hard to play everyone's favourite when the artist is this prolific. Notable crowd pleasers are 'Shameless', 'Little Plastic Castle', 'Fire Door', 'Napoleon' and my own favourite - 'Swim'.

Ani Difranco may not be a name that is familiar main stream (nor does she express any desire to be), but this folksy-punkish singer is one that will remain long in your memory after you've seen her.

Rating (out of 5): 4 1/2 very finely tuned guitars

The Return of The 'Finger!!

Powderfinger, possibly one of Australia's best ever bands are returning to the UK for the first time after 3 years - seems like only yesterday Aileen and I saw them at Hammersmith! And the best news is that they are doing a date in Manchester at the Academy in December!! I know, this bloats the gig calendar even further, but I don't care because it is the 'finger!! I'll be keen to see just how many other Australians are up north - most of us tend to stay close to the bright lights of the capital, but some wander elsewhere, so you never know.

In other news, the NYE problem has been fixed with a booking at a harbour-side restaurant recommeded by my sister. Table for 2, outside by the water and a regular a-la-carte offering at regular upmarket prices. Thanks Hol - you're a lifesaver! I had emailed a bunch of places and some of them were over $800 per person (this is about £300) for dinner. Noone can be THAT hungry :) For that kind of money I expect to be allowed to take the furniture I'm sitting on home with me. Bring on New Years!!!

Bar Review: Obsidian, Princess Street

Enjoying drinks at a regular haunt, Dukes (Castlefield) we, for no other reason than the fact we have drunk too much already, decide to commandeer a black cab and instruct it to take us immediately to a bar I have heard of in Manchester that doesn't exist. I take full responsibility for this, though for the record I would like to shoulder the blame with the bottle of Pinot Grigio at Harvey Nichols earlier. After a few minutes drive, the cab then deposits us on Canal Street, heart of the Gay Quarter where we trawl the streets for decent bars and dodge a blood-spattering fight. Nice. The streets are safe enough in this part of town, nevertheless we're conscious it is nearly midnight and we appear to not have bevvies in our mits. I've since traced our random steps on a map to find exactly how we stumbled into it by chance - Obsidian Bar. In fact, we've heard about this bar, but wasn't sure where it was. Ignoring that we are not dressed to the nines (it's also meant to be a bit swank) we totter over (actually I'm tottering, not Phil - he's got a swagger going on) to the entrance. We're amazed that they let us in and proceed directly to the bar, which is extremely well lit for that time of night. The resident DJ is putting some tunes out at one end of the room and the vibe is lively - people are dressed very well here though we don't spot anyone from TV (I'm rubbish at this, having stood next to Kelly Osbourne in a VIP area at a festival last year and STILL not realising.) The drinks are perfect - cocktails galore, and for the type of venue we're in, very reasonable (£6.50-ish). The porn-star martini is my favourite arriving with a champagne shot. Phil's 'Old Fashioned' is creatively pimped up with raisin and apricot and the smile on his face tells me it's a winner. We therefore spend the remainder of the evening here choosing cocktails for each other and stumbling out the door at 2am (closing time). This place is a fantastic find, except for the lighting which is a tad too bright.

Funny Old Friday..

Sitting at the doctor's this morning (just to get a repeat prescription, I'm not ill) there is a girl in the waiting room talking to her friend. I'm not curious as to why she's here, though it occasionally crosses my mind how sick everyone is and how uncomfortable I am being in an enclosed space with them. After a brief dialogue about relationships and whether she will ever meet someone and date / have a relationship, her friend asks her whether she has let her work know that she's going to be late today. Immediately the girl phones her work to let them know she is at the doctors. Clearly they weren't impressed that she advised them 10 minutes before her shift, and asked her why she didn't know she was ill yesterday. Most people would at this point explain (or at least lie) that they woke up feeling unwell. This girl tells her boss that she has 'some kind of STD'. Her friend (and the entire waiting room) desperately pretend like we haven't heard what she's said. I'm scrolling through emails I have already seen on my Blackberry. Not that it matters, she was oblivious that it was far too much information.
And another thing that's made me giggle today...
I received via email from an old flatmate of mine from Australia (a Big Brother selection process finalist and provider of yesterday's gossip) and it is today's Quote Of The Day:
"Kate and I have been together for 3 plus years now (preceded by Caitilin, Katie and Kate and some other girl whose name I can't remember)."

Spinning Around - Kylie Exhibition

Seeing as this weekend may be my last opportunity to see the Kylie Exhibition at the Manchester Art Gallery on Mosley Street, AND it's Manchester Gay Pride weekend (I doubt that's a coincidence) I decided to get in during the week and catch the 'show' before it gets packed out on the weekend. Accompanied by my friend Helen, we entered the Gallery to find two large rooms displaying the costumes and pictures of Kylie through her career, including the 'Can't Get You Out Of My Head' jumpsuit and of course the gold hot pants from 'Spinning Around' in 2000. (These, by the way, in real life appear much more orange/bronze than they do in the videoclip.) Included in the free (yep, free!) exhibition are two screens where you can see 'behind the scenes' footage and the Showgirl tour. Also, there is a wardrobe room where little girls can dress up in all sorts of Kylie type clothes. For any fans of Kylie, it was a real treat - and most if not all the costumes will be familiar. I'd always heard that Kylie is not tall (she's 5 foot) - but she's also really tiny in width - the showgirl corsets being barely bigger than my arm!

Kylie may be bashful about the popularity of such an exhibition, but thank god someone kept all those costumes - it really was a fun stroll down pop history!

Bourne To Entertain

Yes, I took part in yet another one of those Orange 2-4-1 Wednesday deals and went to see Matt Damon in The Bourne Ultimatum last night. Thankfully I prepared by watching the first two 'Bourne' films on Sunday and Tuesday nights (thus proving you can never have enough Matt Damon) so I was clued up on what was going on. This is one movie where it really is necessary to see the prequels. Generally I am not a fan of trilogies as they invariably lose their impact and feel more like they are made to make money rather than entertain. The Bourne Ultimatum is a very big exception to this, and without revealing any plot it gives more impact than the first two. It's also more exciting (though this could be on account of the fact I saw the first two only on television), the fight scenes are even better and the story does not deviate from compelling. As a side note - Julia Stile's performance in this series improved with each film, emerging as a candidate for a more central role should a fourth 'Bourne' be created.

Verdict: Go see it (and thank me afterwards.)

On the stereo this week is a bunch of new stuff I have picked up on Sunday... firstly Kate Nash's debut: Made Of Bricks. I want to rave about this offering as the hype should have me doing. Sadly I can't. Billed to be the next Lily Allen, the lyrics are not half as sophisticated as her mentor's, with such tunes as 'D*ckhead' becoming patently dull after 30 seconds. Even the lyrics on the insert are wrong, missing or badly spelt on many of the tracks. The album begins with a pointless intro before the hit single 'Foundations', which is the big drawcard. 'Mouthwash' follows with a rather cack-handed feel to it. Almost like someone making up a song on the spot, singing about the first thing they can see. 'D*ckhead' as mentioned is appalling in every sense and a complete snoozefest. Redemption is made briefly in the next 2 tracks, 'Birds' which is tuneful and quirky and 'We Get On' which is of a more 'Lily' style. Sadly, form disappears in 'Mariella' and 'Sh*t Song' which makes leaves you wondering why Ms Nash felt obliged to add these on - both childish attempts at songwriting. Next up is the bizarrely titled 'Pumpkin Soup' which offers no reference to pumpkins or soup though it does extend the barriers of the style on this album by way of incorporating some very 80s effects. Thankfully the album makes a late and partial comeback with its final 3 tracks: 'Skeleton Song', 'Nicest Thing' and 'Merry Happy' all very listenable.
Overall: nothing special (I'm hoping she's alright live though).

Painting Manchester Red

No - I'm not turning into a Man U fan, in fact I have never liked soccer on account of the fact that they fall over too much without being genuinely hurt - watch rugby, you'll see the difference..! No, this weekend I was determined to find some new places to eat and drink in the city rather than rely on our known favourites. So, Friday night sees us occupying a table at Dimitris Greek Taverna on lower Deansgate - although we were initially given the Darkest Table Ever, we soon moved to one with better lighting. Opting for the Super Mega Fish Meze, we changed this to a regular Fish Meze when the waitress told us just how massive it would be and doubted that we would finish it. She was right - we even struggled with the regular one... a massive plate loaded with huge proportions of tender octopus in tomato, fried squid, whitebait, taramasalata, olive tapenade and salad, accompanied by a large bowl of mussels in cream/wine and a bowl of warm pita bread - it was massive. And delicious, will definitely head back there - the dining section out the back in the covered alley where we ate was fantastic, it felt like a different country.

Back into the city on Saturday night after watching Ireland lose in the rugby that afternoon we head to Zinc Bar up near Selfridges and Harvey Nichols (yes, we have both here almost side by side - how convenient is that?). Zinc Bar is more of a restaurant that turns into a bar after dinner and is a great place to watch people stumbling around the Printworks area, usually staggering towards Tiger Tiger and Hard Rock Cafe in large groups. The cocktails are carefully made and prices are moderate (though not cheap) however, the lighting is not dipped enough to make it feel enough of a bar. Clientele seems to be couples and small groups of friends who enjoy being able to talk and not shout.. one word of warning though - if you need to answer the call of nature, strap your hiking boots on. The journey upstairs, through the restaurant, along several corridors, down some stairs and more corridors is a lengthy one and you will meet several people looking lost and bewildered on the way.

From Zinc Bar, we pointed ourselves in the direction of upper Deansgate where we found Label and The Living Room. Having eaten lunch previously at The Living Room we were tempted to enter and found that a few people were being turned away. When we approached the door staff we were told that it was members and guests only and enquired whether it was worth waiting anyway - a quick check of our attire and we were permitted to enter (sigh - was this really necessary? We're not hobos!) Anyway, walking in I see a dizzying array of wannabe footballers' wives. Very funny stuff - loads of eye make-up, hair done to the max, designer threads - you get the idea. The front area near the bar which has a row of booths facing it on the opposing wall was packed, though we made our way to the bar to peruse the sticky cocktail menu. We found booths available in the back section which started to fill as well, but was by no means packed. Reasonable cocktails, silly prices and even sillier clientele, but the lighting was flattering and the music pretty good. Only problem is getting a cab from Deansgate at the end of it (it was raining and my shoes hurt), though we managed one soon enough.

Naturally enough, we spent the Sunday feeling completely drained (not just financially) and decided it would be an excellent opportunity to watch some Cold Feet - Phil recently bought me the box set as I had never seen the show before. When I say 'some Cold Feet' I mean 12 hours of it - the final 2 series (4 and 5). Just could not turn it off - and the ending had me blubbing like a little girl! If you have never seen it before, I implore you to watch it. Ideal for 30-somethings like me with no plan in life.

Gig Report: Tim Freedman, Museum of Garden History, London 9pm

Leaving drinks with a good friend (Monique) who I haven't seen in ages, I reluctantly jumped into a cab with Aileen and we arrived moments later at the Museum of Garden History. At first, entering the church-styled building, I thought we were in the wrong place, but the grand piano on stage made it clear we were on target. Inside the church the intimate seating area was boxed in by 7 foot high partitioning, and a bar was set up to the right of the stage, selling bottles of Wolf Blass which we duly procured. The seating long gone, we take a place at the back, hoping not to obscure anyone's view as Tim came on stage. Our timing was impeccable, though I'm sorry that we missed the support act (not that sorry, after all we got to catch up with Mo!).

Tim played the first 5-6 tracks largely from his new album (Little Cloud) faultlessly and kept his customary glass of red topped up throughout, which he clearly enjoyed, commenting: 'I'm as patriotic as the next Australian, but this French wine shits on the Aussie stuff'. Some old favourites made their way onto the set list such as 'Up Against the Wall', 'Blow Up The Pokies', 'Thank You' and 'No Aphrodisiac' to a very appreciative crowd. Tim even obliged with the ever-popular 'I Make Hamburgers' stopping mid way to engage the audience with a quick anecdote relating to the lyrics. As the bottle on stage drained, a couple of errors appeared in the performance - minor though and Tim quickly made light of them to the crowd's amusement. The piano sounded rich in the venue - a brilliant choice for the show and Tim interacted well with the audience, seemingly appreciative that he has so many (homesick) fans over this side of the world. A fourth and final show has been added to the tour which I am desperately trying to justify buying tickets and making the 400+mile trip for. I'm just grateful that I was able to catch at least one show. And super grateful that Aileen was there to enjoy it with me and keep our glasses topped up!

Restaurant Review: The Grill on the Alley, 5 Ridgefield Manchester, M2 6EG

Saturday, 6pm, raining and miserable. (Yes I'm still annoyed at Summer's failed attempt this year, though at least we're not flooded up here.) We've just completed a marathon shopping session in Manchester City Centre and I've added several hundred quid to my VISA card by way of a new Mulberry bag (it IS to die for though). We decided to try for a reservation at 'The Restaurant' on John Dalton Street. We fail to get a suitable time (nobody in their right mind eats at 6.30pm) and opt for our second dining choice at The Grill on the Alley who accommodate our late request without fuss and fit us in for 9.15pm.

Heading home, we decide to glam up a little for a evening and today's satin green Karen Millen dress purchase makes it's first appearance - the sales this year have been very good to me! We take a taxi (hey, I had new shoes on as well and the cobbles are very slippery!) who takes us in and around Deansgate rather pointlessly before arriving at the Grill on the Alley. We are a little early (unusual for us) and proceed directly to the bar (that's more like us) to whet our appetite.

Taking our seats in the cavernous exposed brickwork downstairs area we notice that most tables are of the booth type, however ours is a table placed at the end of a booth and is poorly lit. This, by the way, is fine, but doesn't go unnoticed by the staff who correct it quickly, much to our surprise and delight. The wine menu offers an extensive list of reds and whites, though it's a pinot grigio rosé that we plump for to accompany our meal. To start, we are sharing a very decadent dozen Irish oysters kilpatrick - my absolute favourite way to enjoy oysters. Devoured in seconds we wait patiently for the 14Oz sirloin and half lobster to arrive. The lobster makes its way to my side of the table (though we didn't really care who got what) and while it is tasty, there is not enough meat on it to satisfy my hunger and Phil promptly offloads some of the beautifully cooked (medium-rare) steak. Accompanying the lobster are some piping hot chips with the skin on, and we supplement the steak with oven-roasted rosemary tomatoes and more chips. All delicious. Unfortunately the lobster proved difficult to open and I bent the special claw-cracking tool beyond recognition (sorry!) and I finish the meal feeling slightly hungry. The only sensible remedy to this is a warm chocolate mud cake from the dessert menu, which is light but incredibly rich owing to the gooey sweet chocolate sauce draped on it.

Needless to say, we float out of the Grill, bellies full and on a gastronomic high. This place is top notch and priced about right for the standard and service you get.

Restaurant Review: The Grill on the Alley, 5 Ridgefield Manchester, M2 6EG

Saturday, 6pm, raining and miserable. (Yes I'm still annoyed at Summer's failed attempt this year, though at least we're not flooded up here.) We've just completed a marathon shopping session in Manchester City Centre and I've added several hundred quid to my VISA card by way of a new Mulberry bag (it IS to die for though). We decided to try for a reservation at 'The Restaurant' on John Dalton Street. We fail to get a suitable time (nobody in their right mind eats at 6.30pm) and opt for our second dining choice at The Grill on the Alley who accommodate our late request without fuss and fit us in for 9.15pm.

Heading home, we decide to glam up a little for a evening and today's satin green Karen Millen dress purchase makes it's first appearance - the sales this year have been very good to me! We take a taxi (hey, I had new shoes on as well and the cobbles are very slippery!) who takes us in and around Deansgate rather pointlessly before arriving at the Grill on the Alley. We are a little early (unusual for us) and proceed directly to the bar (that's more like us) to whet our appetite.

Taking our seats in the cavernous exposed brickwork downstairs area we notice that most tables are of the booth type, however ours is a table placed at the end of a booth and is poorly lit. This, by the way, is fine, but doesn't go unnoticed by the staff who correct it quickly, much to our surprise and delight. The wine menu offers an extensive list of reds and whites, though it's a pinot grigio rosé that we plump for to accompany our meal. To start, we are sharing a very decadent dozen Irish oysters kilpatrick - my absolute favourite way to enjoy oysters. Devoured in seconds we wait patiently for the 14Oz sirloin and half lobster to arrive. The lobster makes its way to my side of the table (though we didn't really care who got what) and while it is tasty, there is not enough meat on it to satisfy my hunger and Phil promptly offloads some of the beautifully cooked (medium-rare) steak. Accompanying the lobster are some piping hot chips with the skin on, and we supplement the steak with oven-roasted rosemary tomatoes and more chips. All delicious. Unfortunately the lobster proved difficult to open and I bent the special claw-cracking tool beyond recognition (sorry!) and I finish the meal feeling slightly hungry. The only sensible remedy to this is a warm chocolate mud cake from the dessert menu, which is light but incredibly rich owing to the gooey sweet chocolate sauce draped on it.

Needless to say, we float out of the Grill, bellies full and on a gastronomic high. This place is top notch and priced about right for the standard and service you get.

Kylie Comes to Manchester!

Well, at the very least her tiny gold shorts do as part of the free Kylie Exhibition that will be showing at the Manchester Art Gallery until September the 2nd! Over 300 items on display documenting her career and more importantly her fabulous wardrobe. I'm planning on seeing this next week - can't wait!

We missed out on seeing Jeremy Lyons last night owing to my late return from London - apologies Phil - am sure it would have been a laff.

As it is forecast to rain until Monday (ugh!) I doubt we'll be getting any tanning time in, shame though because by all accounts the rest of Europe is having a heatwave! Makes you want to grab a lilo and head to the airport on the off chance of a cheap flight. Not even somewhere exotic - just somewhere with some decent heat and a swimming pool... As for Global Warming?? Don't think so!

Gig Report: Little Man Tate, Bolton Soundhouse Friday 6 July

Taking the short trip up to Bolton on Friday night (much closer than we thought being only 15 minutes door to door) we parked opposite the uni-studentish hangout Bolton Soundhouse on Ash Street for Little Man Tate's warm up gig for T in the Park on Saturday. A couple of support acts played - the first one was good (though I didn't find out their name) and the second one (Wax Planet) was average - and the place filled up for the sold out headline act. The crowd was a very middle class 18-35 selection but the lack of edge was not the biggest thing we noticed - it was the lack of smoke. This was indeed our first time out since the smoking ban and what a difference it makes. Clearly the ban to protect the people working in such venues hasn't hit the spot with everyone as the security guards regularly opened the large doors at the back of the venue so that they could smoke and not leave their post... oh well, at least the rest of us were smoke free. The other nice thing about the evening is that drinks were super-cheap - and that's ignoring the softies I was having on account of being designated driver for the evening.

Little Man Tate enter the stage to the sound of chanting (L-M-T!) and it's clear from the start that it's going to be rowdier than we expected. Now, I don't remember the order of the set-list, but I can say for certain that most of the album was included and that by 2 songs in, the crowd surfing and beer tossing began - all to the apparent surprise and amusement of frontman Jon Windle. The boys looked like they were having a great time, the sound was solid and confident, a perfect ego-boost festival preparation for the Sheffield lads - and it's hard to believe that the band are barely a year old.

Big things definitely ahead for these boys....

More TV Magic: University Challenge Taping, ITV Granada Studios

Back to the now-familiar Granada Studios complex last night for another helping of 'television magic', I dragged Phil off to see Univeristy Challenge being taped. Filmed in a studio much like the one for the Angus Deayton show, the set is impressive and looks very much like you see it on television - except that obviously the two panels of contestants are side by side and not on top of each other. After a warm-up round which is run by the voice-over guy (I'm sure he has a name) it's straight into the Paxman-hosted show, where there is no break whatsoever and the questions come thick and fast, particularly near the end. Consequently (and as a result of Jeremy Paxman being pretty professional) the tapings were short and before little more than 2 hours had passed we had seen two tapings. Firstly it was Oxford (Magdelen College) up against Birmingham - such a close competition - and then Warwick up against Leeds. In case there are some hard core fans, I won't announce who won (hey, you never know who reads these blog things!) but suffice to say that it was an entertaining evening, though the questions are REALLY tough! I'm usually pleased if I get a handful right when watching the show at home, and I found it hard to resist shouting the answer when you very rightly know that Anzac Day falls in APRIL YOU MUPPETS, NOT JUNE!!

Jeremy Paxman comes across as dry-witted and sarcastic on television - and this is definitely true in person, but in a very amusing way. All in all, a fun glimpse into another style of television production!

Bar Review: Mojo, (City Centre) and Dimitri's (Deansgate)

Well, this should be one bar review but actually it's two. See we aimed on heading to Mojo Bar on Back Bridge Street off Deansgate and staying there. When we arrived and headed up the tatty wooden stairs (an exact copy of the Leeds Mojo) we were immediately struck with how loud the place was (or maybe I am getting very very old now!) but thanks to the open windows, how un-smokey it was, though lots of people were still puffing whole-heartedly in the last 24 hours until the ban came in. Ordering a cocktail from the extensive menu at the bar (where people are standing/drinking and not ordering - so annoying to queue behind people who are not moving anywhere!) I'm squeezed up against The Smelliest Man Alive.

So, the cocktail is served and it's disappointing to say the least - it's a crudely made drink hastily thrown in a pint glass. In fact it's now clear this place is going to be little more than a Wetherspoons with better lighting. I really tried to get into the mood to enjoy this place, but failed. Even a second (and more horrendous) 'cocktail' did not bouy the spirits so we left. This place might be better suited to hen nights or large groups of people who like to shout at each other, but definitely not my scene and they should absolutely throw their cocktail list away.
So, with me in tow (and in a pretty poor frame of mind) Phil valiantly drags me to Bar 38, where we stand at the bar briefly to witness some first class incompetence and leave. (No review required here I think).

Deciding that the best course of action would be to head for familiar, tried-and-tested drinking holes we finally agree on Dukes 92 (though the Knott Bar nearly won). Walking down Deansgate, we pass Dimitri's Taverna, which we have often caught a waft of the inviting food smells and commented on 'eating there soon'. However on this occasion it's not the scent of moussaka that draws our attention. Positioned just inside the window is a 5 piece band playing blues music so enthusiastically it's impossible to ignore. Barely a discussion needed - we enter and set up camp with a drink immediately to watch the band who we find out afterwards is Ernie's Rythm Section. Deciding this is definitely a good choice, we grab a bottle of wine to take in the talents of the band who wield a double bass, a harmonica and three sets of vocals that really make the performance... the lead guitarist is a pale skinny lad who, when he sings, sounds more like a 50 year old Louisana local. Decked out in Trilby hats, they consistently performed with passion and a rythm that was flawless - though I didn't know a single tune they played, I could have watched them for hours. As for the bar - it was a little cold owing to the door being permanently open, though the people who shared our table were smoking so much I was thankful for the fresh air. Otherwise, it was full of friendly people, service was quick and efficient and prices reasonable given the location. I'll definitely be back, especially now that the smoking ban is in force! Oh, and we really must eat there soon...

Gig Report: RNCM Chamber Orchestra, RNCM, Friday 22 June 2007

Rushing to the Royal Northern College of Music (RNCM) after a canal-side run in preparation for Sunday's race, we made it with time to spare and grab a refreshing beverage (we had run 4 miles, so it was well-deserved). We enter the Haden Freeman Concert Hall, a smaller theatre than the one we had been in for the trombone concert though it still had a 200-odd seat capacity. As usual with this venue the mix of people was varied, but was generally divided between older mum and dad types and the student brigade who were possibly the friends of the 45-strong performers, all who are tertiary students at the aforementioned college.

Beginning the 4 part show is a stunning tribute to Beethoven's 9 Symphonies reworked to include electric and bass guitars and an ice-cream vendors bell. For the most part it was very entertaining and flowed smoothly, never knowing when each well known strain from the symphonies would appear, but the ice cream vendors bell did not fit at all, appearing randomly and without context - though that was probably the main idea - it just seemed more like someone's mobile went off during the performance.

The second piece which was a flute concerto (Mandala ki Raga), fused Indian and classical music. An Indian lady sat cross-legged on a special black podium in the middle of the orchestra while a flautist stood to one side. While talented, parts of the performance were again a little too avant-garde and more distracting was the fact that I kept thinking of that film, Anchorman, where Will Ferrel plays 'jazz flute'. Unfortunately during the end of the piece my throat gave way and I had to leave the theatre so I could cough without disturbing the performance. Always annoying! Luckily intermission followed and Phil and I went to the bar to grab something suitable to sooth my throat.

Returning to the hall we watched an even more bizarre and heavily percussive 4-part piece being performed which was so atonal and contemporary I couldn't get into it at all. The piece in question was called 'Hard-Boiled Wonderland and the End of the World' which should tell you how 'out there' it was. The piece shares the same name as a Haruki Murakami novel which will make sense to anyone who has read one of his novels. As Phil has a healthy collection of literature by this writer he was able to enjoy the performance and understand it more than me.
Ending the concert and returning to a more traditional style, we were treated to a rendition of Beethoven's Symphony No 1 in C major, which was in all sense music to my ears and to my mind showcased the technical abilities of the performers.

And so ended our cultured Friday evening as we returned home to catch up on Big Brother (for my benefit not Phil's).

Gig Report: Ricky Gervais, FAME, MEN Arena Thursday 21 June

Ricky Gervais is probably the hottest British comedy export at the moment, following his television success with The Office (which has been made into an American version starring Steve Carrell of 40-Year Old Virgin fame) and The Extras. Picking up no less than a half dozen Baftas and a couple of Emmys stateside, he can probably boast being the most high-acclaimed comedy acts the Brits have produced too. So it's no surprise that he's filling large venues up and down the country in his latest stand-up offering, Fame. For audiences who have previously enjoyed his Animals and Politics shows, this was somewhat of a departure. Gone is the lecture-style performance, giving way to a more unscripted, conversationalist delivery of jokes around being a celebrity. The comedy he presented on the whole was funny (and the hour long set was almost enough to justify the £30 ticket price) though I think that some of it was lost in the size of the venue. Even though we had 4th row seats in the lower tiered section up the back, it was impossible to read any facial expressions and I have ridiculously good distance vision. Added to that, the topical humour was in some parts a bit raw and would be better suited to a more intimate setting.
Back tracking a little (and this is more for completeness) the warm-up act was well chosen. Will Smith, an upper class mid 30's guy gave a performance that engaged the audience and took no cheap shots at anyone other than himself.

Overall it was a great night out and we're glad we went, but the DVD would be just as funny.

Ocean's 13: enough already?

Like Monique, I also took advantage of another 2-for-1 Wednesday (the one benefit of having an Orange handset in the house) and went off to the cinema last night. Phil was keen to see Fantastic Four: Rise of the Silver Surfer, but unlike Monique I put my foot down (small petulent child that I am) and refused to watch some comic-book-turned-movie entertainment. Really not my thing - I can happily enjoy Shrek and the like, but Spiderman et al - absolutely not. Though I would like to see Vacancy (the hotel room based horror flick) I think I'd prefer to be at home to catch that one. With the lights on. So the natural choice was Ocean's 13. Having seen the first two instalments (the second of which was widely panned by critics) I pretty much knew what was in store. A wrong done to someone, and elaborate heist and a cast of sexy A-list male actors. And whilst the film did what it said on the tin - you have to ask, have we had enough of Ocean's already? Well, frankly, no. Sure we knew that the team would pull it off in the end - but then doesn't James Bond always get the lady and save the day? There is absolutely enough room in the market for well shot plain ol' cinema fun - sure beats some of the tragic rom-com dross on the screens.
If I could criticise this film at all is that it didn't have many twists to the story as the first one AND Ellen Barkin was probably not the best choice for her role (what's up with those fake knockers too?) but hey on a half price ticket, I was more than 50% entertained.
Verdict: Wait til it's on DVD if you're not a massive fan of the series.

Comedy Sketchbook Taping, ITV Granada Studios

Last night we walked into town to Granada studios, the hallowed grounds of Coronation street, to watch the taping of Comedy Sketchbook, a show made up of 'hilarious' clips from some of Britain's finest comedy moments, hosted by Angus Deayton (left). Shuffling to the gates we notice the audience is a much more mature one - perhaps semi-fans of the host himself. Entering the grounds we're directed through security and then towards a conservatory like building which is actually attached to the Rovers Return fronted building, where audience members can purchase a drink and snacks. This of course is not the Rovers Return interior that is used in Corrie (as it is affectionately known), but the outside is frequently used for shots.

Filing into the studio and this is the first actual television studio I have been in, I'm amazed to see it is in effect a section of high ceiling warehouse with hundreds of lights of all descriptions positioned above our heads. The garish set looks larger than life, but on the monitor appears more normal. Several headset wearing people buzz around talking quietly into walkie-talkies and we take our seats in the second row. A warm-up guy tells a few jokes so that our laughter is recorded, though he wasn't that good so some of the laughs were pretty forced (except for the audience snorter - there's always one!). Soon, and without too much formality, Angus Deayton enters the studio to much applause and he's a true professional, at least for the first show where his scripts were read without fault. It looked like we'd be heading home earlier than expected if he followed suit in the second taping - sadly he was obviously getting weary because he fluffed his lines repeatedly. The show was shot pretty much how you will see it going to air, we listened to Angus, then watched some clips, back to Angus and so on until the end of the show. All of the clips were British and some of them I didn't really get the joke as they were small sketches of characters that most people grew up with and understood the larger context, still it was a good night out and interesting to watch.

The verdict? Unlikely to be a major comeback for Angus who is sadly relegated to one-off late night shows, but he shows he's still got comic timing and an audience appeal.

Live Earth!!

Just got a text through from Live Earth saying my registration has been successful and I am able to purchase Live Earth tickets. Which of course is all very exciting except that I now have something else booked in for that weekend... isn't that always the way?

Oh well, it's small comfort but plenty of things are in the diary this week, not least of which is Ricky Gervais at the MEN arena on Thursday night. Tonight however, we're off to see a TV show being taped called Comedy Sketchbook, hosted by Angus Deayton. Interesting to see what ends up on television after our Britain's Got Talent taping... cannot believe the £50 wedding singer from our audition session - not only did he get through (madness) but then got kicked off for being a known sex offender. Anyway, it seems that despite this, the show was a massive success (though the popularity of the American one made it a fairly safe bet for Simon Cowell) and it was great to see that Carphone Warehouse salesman and part time opera singer Paul Potts won.

Tim Tams and Whitlams

OK, no Tim Tams (it's the only thing I could think of to rhyme with Whitlams) but I am super pysched today. I've got tickets to see Tim Freedman (Whitlams) early August in London with a good friend who lived in Australia and shares my passion (or tolerates it at the very least) for the Whitlams! This is definitely a rare opportunity and totally worth a trip to the capital for the performance. (Thanks Ails!)

Also arriving in the post are tickets I grabbed the other day for Ricky Gervais live in Manchester on the 21st - making that week sooo busy... I've signed us up to go watch another show being taped (yes, I've lost my mind), there's a classical concert, another 10km jog and Knowsley Hall Festival. Red Bull anyone?

Gig Report: Good Golly Miss Polly! Roadhouse, 8pm Thursday, 7 June 2007

Such a busy weekend that I haven't had time to blog about Thursday night's gig.
So... how was it!?
OK, so the tickets and website said doors at 7.30pm and arriving at 8pm I had assumed we'd be catching a bit of the support and then Polly herself, but when we reached the dingy Northern Quarter venue (it's pretty grim, but a good start for people trying to make it in the business) we found that the doors had not even opened - soundchecks were still in progress. Backing up the stairs we perused the shops in this area, lingering at Dainese (sp?) so Phil could drool over the motorbike gear before I dragged him across the road to a new Kro Bar for us. This one I think is a little more upscale than the Oxford Road location, though the familiar simple Danish stylings and strawberry beer (Fruli on tap!) is a welcome sight. Finishing our beers we head back to the venue to enter it's dark interior. The noises resonating from the stage are poorly constructed rock, sounding like a group of 40-something men practicing in someone's garage. This is (according to the flyers pasted on the walls) '100 Club' whose vocals were indecipherable for the entire set. We assumed that the guy on the mixer was being kind by drowning the frontman out but in any case it wasn't unbearable. A chance to grab some drinks and take in the venue sees us procuring more beers (they serve Fruli here too so it can't be all bad!) and finding a spot to stand. Note - this venue has a distinct lack of seating - the only chairs available are red and black metal folding chairs but even these are in short supply. The crowd at this point is very small, making the venue seem ultra 'school-disco awkward' since
a) the music is not a beat you can dance to,
b) it's mainly full of men who don't visibily show musical appreciation more than nodding their heads vaguely in time; and
c) there is a huge space in front of the band where noone wants to stand.
Lather, rinse and repeat for the next band - which is disappointing and now weird... why on earth would Polly have over-pumped rock building up to her folksy set? Anyway, enter 'Sound Club' who I assumed would be a marked improvement owing to the more professional looking equipment and care at which they unloaded their pedals from their bubble-wrap in boxes. The frontman is a wannabe Liam Gallagher - right down to the forward-combed hair and top-buttoned styling. With attitude to match and a swagger that would make Liam proud. Throughout the short set he continued to purse his lips and wind the mic lead over and around his head in a vaguely Oasis stylee. Just a shame he didn't have the talent to match and that quite frankly they were a bit middle class trying to be 'street' - the drummer's mother taking photos was a dead giveaway. By now we'd discovered that parking ourselves to the right of the stage is one of the venue's accoustically bankrupt places to stand - though for the first two bands it didn't make a whole lot of difference and we promptly relocated to the mid-back section of the rapidly filling Raodhouse. It seems that Polly is building quite a fan base, and she enters the stage to much applause. Dressed in red she acknowledges the crowd with grace and humour immediately endearing herself to people who have not laid eyes or ears on her previously. What follows is a selection of songs from her album (Fingers and Thumbs) being released Monday 11 June which she is clearly excited about. Her voice clear, warm and solid, she sounds a lot like KT Tunstall and though the tunes on the whole are not as catchy they are both listenable and likeable - and judging by the now crowded stage area of the Roadhouse, I'm not the only one who thinks so. Track of the evening for me is the gorgeous Back To The Start. Big (Fingers and) Thumbs up for Polly!
Gigs over for the week, Phil and I tortured ourselves at the gym on Saturday in preparation for a lack-lustre effort in another 10km race. Striving for excellence in mediocrity we suitably gave up after 30mins each on the treadmill and opted for weights before returning home to crank up the BBQ and open a bottle of wine. Waking to a stunning Sunday morning we headed for the Peak District to stroll 4-5 miles of their finest undulating hills, some of which we had covered previously and some new territory. Finally, after nearly 6 years in this country (yep, it's been THAT long) I have achieved several patches of sunburn on my shoulders, neck and chest. I'm almost proud - though Phil's rather disappointed frown at my sun damage tells me I really shouldn't be! Ahhh, the sun baking days of my youth revisited, if only briefly!

Gig Report: Rodrigo Y Gabriela, Liverpool Academy, Monday 28 May, 2007

Returning back from 3 somewhat soggy days of camping in the Lake District where it appears I have picked up a cold, we troop over to Liverpool for a gig that Phil has grabbed some tickets for. Having never heard their work, I take it on good authority from Phil's enthusiasm that this is definitely an act worth catching. Arriving early, we stopped for some dinner nearby (of which the choice was rather slender in this part of town), and plump for some Indian food on the same street as the gig venue. Despite assuring me that what I had ordered would contain absolutely no coriander, the meal arrived promptly with the offending herb. I know - what on earth am I doing in an Indian restaurant with such a distaste for coriander - but seriously, it was the only option for dinner and I would never normally eat in a curry house by choice. It does make me kind of worry for people who have real allergies as they asked whether I was allergic and rather than explain that coriander just makes me retch I said 'yes'.
Anyway, we leave the Indian (round two of the same dish, by the way, tasted fine) and it's now raining so we scuttle into the venue for the gig. (Note, there are two entrances to this venue.) Finding the right entrance, we head in just before 8pm to see Brett Dennen take the stage clad in a jeans, chambray shirt and bandanna combination. Looking like a time traveller from 3 decades ago, Brett gave frequent peace signs and began to play. Now, I'm a big fan of the acoustic guitar (having picked one up recently as you will read in the previous blog) and I enjoyed his musical stylings, supported with a drummer. The thing is, it was just all a bit 'nice'. To be honest, he sounds like a copy of John Mayer, but with less impact. The songs, while I am sure were meaningful to him, were all delivered in a cookie-cutter-folk style and after a couple of songs I was playing a personal game of 'name the chords' to amuse myself. One look at his myspace page shows that he performs with John Mayer, who quotes on his site:
“A beautiful and spirited record. Instantly likeable.” Enough said.
Anyway, after a lengthy set up for the main act (in which I am growing tired an slightly impatient) Gabriela and Rodrigo take the stage to rapturous applause, such is the excitement of the audience - and I'm about to see why. Two cameras, one pointed at Gabriela's guitar and one (initially at Rodrigo's crotch but soon corrected) on the other guitar tell me that this is going to be a feast for the eyes as well. What follows is the most extraordinary display of talent I have witnessed live in a long time. The techniques of Gabriela and Rodrigo are as far apart as they are on stage - Gabriela's hand flamenco dancing at warp speed over the strings like a startled spider while Rodrigo primarily plucks so fast it makes your head spin just watching. The duo, from Mexico, are both playing Spanish guitars though the influences are clearly heavy rock / metal interspersing the odd track with the likes of Black Sabbath. Odd I know - I normally associate Spanish guitar with theme-park type tapas bars trying desperately to seem authentic. These guys completely turn that idea on its head - transfixing the audience with their raucous foot stomping rock. What strikes me as odd is their sense of timing, which is faultlessly precise considering that a) they are quite a distance on stage from each other, b) they are not even facing each other, which wouldn't matter because c) they both have their eyes closed. Absolutely incredible. Also pleasing to see is that they have not lost the ability to connect with the audience despite the intensity of the show and a small language barrier, played a decent encore (Stairway to Heaven like you have have never heard it) and shook hands with people in the front at the end.
Truly gifted musicians, it is incredible to watch a duo up close that are this good.

Olé!!

New additions to the penthouse!

In our ever-expanding collection of musical instruments, we have added two new guitars - these being a Yamaha APX 500 in dark red burst and a Parker Fly Deluxe in black. The Parker of course is Phil's (who has played for many years) and the Yamaha is for me as I have recently felt the need to get strumming and in an effort to avoid breaking Phil's more precious instruments I felt it a good idea to get my own. I'm not about to start a myspace page or launch a tour, but have mastered a handful of chords that I am murdering every song I can with and having a lot of fun.

Polly Comes Back!

News has just reached me that Polly Paulusma is returning to Manchester and is playing at the Roadhouse on June 7, for get this.. £4 a ticket! Fine - she may not be on the charts, but her stuff is definitely worth a spin...
Also, Little Man Tate are doing a couple of reasonably local gigs as a pre-cursor to their T in the Park performances. I feel a quick trip to Bolton is absolutely necessary...
(revised: we now HAVE tickets to this one!)

Gig Report: J'aime Nouvelle Vague! Monday, 21 May 07

Sneeking out for a cheeky school-night gig, Phil and I headed for the smaller venue (3) at Manchester Academy to catch Nouvelle Vague this week. A trip to this venue of course not being complete without the obligatory strawberry beer from Kro Bar. And yes, as always they were again understaffed - we stood and watched two stylishly aloof late-teenage bar staff lounging by the coffee machine idly dreaming of their futures for far longer than necessary.. anyway, over to the Academy where we are directed upstairs and down a corridor to the venue - feeling like we are entering a small school hall (admittedly with a bar) for the gig. As smaller venues goes, this one rocks - perfectly intimate for catching your favourite bands up close and personal - should they happen to play here. Unusual for us, but we arrived with time for drinks before the support act who on this occasion is the Hawaii-born Simone White. We both actually assumed she would be European, but a quick chat with her on the way out confirmed otherwise. Taking the stage rather unceremoniously and unannounced, Simone began with a vocal-only song, capturing the attention of the crowd. Though she continued on unsupported playing accoustic guitar for the set and delivering a solid set of delicate tunes, she failed to set the stage alight at any point owing to a complete lack of stage presence. Such was her coy nature and inability to sell herself, it almost felt like we were intruding on a private performance.

After a half hour changeover, Nouvelle Vague took the stage in front of a by now, very eager crowd. To say they gave a spirited performance is understating it in the extreme. Every bossanova- styled post-punk song (a good mix from the first and second CDs) delivered with theatrics, gusto and enthralling variation to the CD version. The two girls on stage responding to the crowd and including them for participation on such local classics as 'Love Will Tear Us Apart' - I wonder if they knew the Joy Division were from Manchester... Playing a full hour and a half, NV showed us a great time with powerful (and charmingly French) vocals, stage presence and hey - it's not often that the singer pours whiskey into cups for the people at the front!

Phil's quote for the evening: 'The best thing about this gig is that when we shout éncore, they will know what we're saying'.

Bravo!

Radio None

That's right - no report on the Radio 1 Big Weekend. The guy who I was getting tickets from had already sold them to someone else on eBay who made an paypal payment, so he felt obliged to hand them over (for more money) to them. Bitterly disappointed, but at least it allowed us to rest for the Great Manchester 10km Run on Sunday where we completed the course in 57mins (me) and 61mins (Phil). The sun shone and soon erased the bad mood of missing out on the festival.
Nouvelle Vague tonight - stay tuned for the report!

Gig Report: Welcome to Jazz Club... Thursday, 17 May 07

Where to start with this? Well we went in with an open mind and mildly excited that we would be enjoying the talents of possibly the UK's most highly acclaimed trombonist. That said, I was in a bit of a mood that a) I'd just lost the tickets to Radio 1's Big Weekend and b) I'd had a lousy day at work which would probably be followed by a torturous client visit the following day.
Anyway, we entered the hall in the Royal Nothern College of Music to find as expected an eclectic bunch of people taking their seats. Lights went down and half a dozen musicians, including Dennis Rollins himself took their place on stage. Musically it got off to a fairly slow start and I was beginning to imagine myself in a cruise ship dinner dance before the free-form contemporary jazz style took over. I've got to admit that I really tried to like it - but I've decided that atonal off-time signature musical ramblings are not my thing. One look at Phil confirmed that it wasn't his flavour either and summed it up perfectly, saying: 'I think I prefer it when they all play the same piece..' Indeed.
Downing a quick drink in the interval, we went back in for the second set where we enjoyed the more traditional jazz stylings and interpretations of modern tunes (Tracy Chapman's Fast Car a highlight) though by then I'd had enough and was more focussed on the impending horror of a day I'd have the next day, so we departed.
Overall it's a great venue for technical music performances and there is a good vibe, but contemporary jazz is not my flavour.

STOP PRESS!!

Yes cinderella - you will go to the ball after all!! After a bitter disappointment in missing out on tickets to Radio One's Big Weekend I have managed to snaffle some last minute tickets to the event from some poor guy who can no longer go. My heart bleeds, honest.
So, this Saturday, in a limited crowd of say 15,000 and a couple of massive tents, Phil and I will be throwing some shapes out in the muddy fields of Moor Park, Preston. The Saturday line up is really quite impressive:

Main Stage
Scissor Sisters
Razorlight
Kasabian
Fratellis
The Fray
Natasha Bedingfield
The Twang
Jamie T

In New Music We Trust Stage
Groove Armada
The Gossip
LCD Soundsystem
CSS
Biffy Clyro
Cold War Kids
Pidgeon Detectives

Plus a whole bunch of other acts in the Outdoor Arena.

Rock on!!! Gig reports to follow, of course.
Tonight though, it's the trombone recital!

Not a Gig...

OK - so this one is not strictly a gig, but worthy of a mention should anyone consider venturing out to see a television show (Britain's Got Talent - hosted by Ant and Dec, judged by Simon Cowell) being taped as we did. Dragging a surprisingly keen Phil out of bed on a pleasant Saturday morning (though he may have feigned interest for my benefit on this one) to the Manchester Apollo (yeah - I know I'm frequenting this place A LOT since moving here) we began the queueing process. I use the word process lightly here - as I'm not sure there was one. There were two queues and when we enquired as to the difference between them, we were told they were just separate queues, but to join the longer one. Sorry I asked really. Queuing with us were a crowd of eager, high street fashion-clad 20-40 year olds. During this time, one of the judges, Piers Morgan, arrived to a reception of half-hearted enthusiasm, though you could expect that most of the people in the queue know him only from the Comic Relief work screened recently and not much else. Once inside we were directed like school children into the seated area at which point we discover we are sitting directly in front of Simon Cowell's Biggest Fan Ever. Big in both senses. The warm up guy was hilarious, yet we got the sense that the experience was about to be clouded by the people behind us. And we were right. Cue constant heckling and screeching. Once the show's introduction had been taped with Ant and Dec, it was time to bring on the judges. The lady (I use this term for a want of being kind) behind us begins to panic. No - Simon himself was not going to sit on her lap or so much as speak to her - merely walk past at a distance of say, 10-15 metres. But still, for Simon Cowell's Biggest Fan Ever, it was enough to prompt her to scream: 'OH SWEET BABY JESUS OF NAZERETH!!!'. During his 'momentus' walk past, she bellowed his name like a harpooned walrus so loud that anyone this side of Macclesfield would have got it. Like a seasoned professional who knows better than to make eye contact with a crazed heifer, Simon didn't so much as turn his head in her direction, thank God.
Right - so on to the talent show... and I have to say that I'm not putting anyone down here, but the dross we saw does not give much hope for the ratings for the show. Suffice to say there were many acts that were booed off stage before they had barely started, but sadly some acts had to get through to the next round. Included in the latter barrel-scraping category were a woman in a leather catsuit who uses an angle grinder to produce sparks from a metal plate resting on her crotch (set to music, if that makes any difference) a gang of children in neon leotards performing some gymnastics (yawn!) and a £50-a-night wedding singer who does impressions of famous singers (badly). After 4 hours, we were released so they could do it all again for the afternoon session and I kid you not - the fan club behind me were planning to come back for more. Seriously.

My advice on this one...
Go: if you can stand clapping for hours and being penned in with random people who may or may not incite you to kill.
Don't Go: if you lack patience and carry arms.