Friday 31 December 2010
Musicians Wanted Hampshire West Sussex
Musicians Wanted Hampshire West Sussex: Bass player with BVs available. Country or Rock 'n' Roll: http://ping.fm/IiRfE
Surrey Rehearsal Studios
Surrey Rehearsal Studios page for info & feedback on ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP's Musicians & Bands Network: http://bit.ly/fAu5UZ
London Rehearsal Studios
London Rehearsal Studios page for info & feedback on ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP's Musicians & Bands Network: http://bit.ly/fC6EKT
Surrey Bands
Surrey Bands: Anyone want to gig with Engine Room of the Apocalypse in 2011? http://bit.ly/h2wJCX
Has 2010 been a good year for ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP?
"Has 2010 been a good year for ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP?" is what Paul Stansfield of Creak asked me at the RTYD Xmas party. Well, let's see:
There was the article in The Times; That was cool. Thanks to Nicholas Barnett of Dead or Alive Promotions for tipping off the young Times journalist and inspiring this.
There was the mention in The Musician (the Musicians Union magazine) along with Facebook and Twitter as a social network beneficial to musicians; that was cool too. Thanks to Louise Rutkowski (formerly of This Mortal Coil) for alerting me to this.
14 Carat Grapefruit put on a gig at The Miller in London Bridge in the name of ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP, and we hosted out first RTYD-SOCIAL event there later in the year. There were other RTYD-SOCIALS run by members in Guildford and Oxford, later in the year, too.
Those good people, and fabulous musicians, The Zone, kindly put on a series of monthly gigs in 2010 in the name of ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP at the Native Tongue in Epsom. I hope more bands will do the same in 2011.
We had out first RTYD committee meeting. Now, although we have not met again since, its members have since felt like people I can turn to for advice and we do plan to get together early in 2011. Marc Verlaine put his hand up this year to offer his help on the live scene. He is currently apprenticing at gigs and will run his own RTYD nights very soon. Thanks, Mark!
We lost the Saturday nights at The Libertine, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise because we gained the Saturday night in the West End of London at 4, Denmark St. (recently re-branded The Alley Cat) a much better two band 8-10pm gig.
We lost the R-T-Y-D fanzine, in the late-2010 online streamlining of RTYD, which is a shame because there were some great contribution by members, though sadly not enough to justify its ongoing digital publication. We also lost the Bands, Fans & Industry network, in the same culling, which just simplifies things for members, I think.
So, all in all, I think 2010 has been a good year. I've learnt a lot, about promoting gigs, and digital and social media marketing. I've learnt how to keep the plates spinning with less effort, which means I can focus on more exciting things than tweeting, like making music.
But 2010 was the year that I realised I was no longer enjoying running so many gigs, which is a shame, but there it is. I'm a musician before I'm a promoter, damn it! I want to be playing, and watching bands on the network as a fan, not as a promoter. I don't really want to stand at the door and take money. 'Specially as it's very much money.
Plans for RTYD in 2011 include improving it as an information resource online for venues and rehearsal facilities. More podcasts to promote some of the great original music made by bands on the network. Increasing the membership. Sending out more flyers to rehearsal studios. That'll do for now.
There was the article in The Times; That was cool. Thanks to Nicholas Barnett of Dead or Alive Promotions for tipping off the young Times journalist and inspiring this.
There was the mention in The Musician (the Musicians Union magazine) along with Facebook and Twitter as a social network beneficial to musicians; that was cool too. Thanks to Louise Rutkowski (formerly of This Mortal Coil) for alerting me to this.
14 Carat Grapefruit put on a gig at The Miller in London Bridge in the name of ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP, and we hosted out first RTYD-SOCIAL event there later in the year. There were other RTYD-SOCIALS run by members in Guildford and Oxford, later in the year, too.
Those good people, and fabulous musicians, The Zone, kindly put on a series of monthly gigs in 2010 in the name of ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP at the Native Tongue in Epsom. I hope more bands will do the same in 2011.
We had out first RTYD committee meeting. Now, although we have not met again since, its members have since felt like people I can turn to for advice and we do plan to get together early in 2011. Marc Verlaine put his hand up this year to offer his help on the live scene. He is currently apprenticing at gigs and will run his own RTYD nights very soon. Thanks, Mark!
We lost the Saturday nights at The Libertine, which turned out to be a blessing in disguise because we gained the Saturday night in the West End of London at 4, Denmark St. (recently re-branded The Alley Cat) a much better two band 8-10pm gig.
We lost the R-T-Y-D fanzine, in the late-2010 online streamlining of RTYD, which is a shame because there were some great contribution by members, though sadly not enough to justify its ongoing digital publication. We also lost the Bands, Fans & Industry network, in the same culling, which just simplifies things for members, I think.
So, all in all, I think 2010 has been a good year. I've learnt a lot, about promoting gigs, and digital and social media marketing. I've learnt how to keep the plates spinning with less effort, which means I can focus on more exciting things than tweeting, like making music.
But 2010 was the year that I realised I was no longer enjoying running so many gigs, which is a shame, but there it is. I'm a musician before I'm a promoter, damn it! I want to be playing, and watching bands on the network as a fan, not as a promoter. I don't really want to stand at the door and take money. 'Specially as it's very much money.
Plans for RTYD in 2011 include improving it as an information resource online for venues and rehearsal facilities. More podcasts to promote some of the great original music made by bands on the network. Increasing the membership. Sending out more flyers to rehearsal studios. That'll do for now.
Musicians Wanted Birmingham
Musicians Wanted Birmingham: Drummer available. Most styles. http://bit.ly/f95qw0
Thursday 30 December 2010
Pop 'til you drop: Bobby Farrell of Boney M dies aged 61
I wasn't really a fan, and he ain't very 'rock', but he did 'pop' and 'disco' 'til he dropped. I also grew up hearing Boney M on the radio, and, against my better judgement, I've probably danced to them at some party or school disco; And that Ra-Ra-Rasputin was pretty catchy and funny, wasn't it?
Toby Burton
New RTYD Member
Eddie Franklin of Birmingham band The Toms is now a member of ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP's Musicians & Bands Network: http://bit.ly/f95qw0
Wednesday 29 December 2010
The UK's only Gig Calendar devoted to mature musicians and bands,
The UK's only Gig Calendar devoted to mature musicians and bands. Get your gig on it for free internet promotion: http://bit.ly/ej3GHM
Surrey Gigs: Leatherat
Leatherat's last 2 gigs sold out. Grab tickets for this while they are still available - http://bit.ly/hXnZeL
Great Drummer Offer - Not to be missed!!
RTYD London Kent: Don't miss the opportunity to snatch up this great DRUMMER OFFER in the end of year RTYD SALES!! http://bit.ly/eFbb4g
Musicians Wanted London
Musicians Wanted London: Ex-The Global Village Trucking Co. seek drummer for juke-joint/Latino/blues: http://ping.fm/B4PfN
Tuesday 28 December 2010
Musicians Rugby Warwickshire
Musicians from Rugby Warwickshire, new members of ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP's Musicians & Bands Network: http://bit.ly/eGOeBa
Bristol band Poundshop Life
Bristol band Poundshop Life's page on ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP's Musicians & Bands Network: http://bit.ly/ftJINY
Musicians: 2011 New Year's resolutions
Musicians: Let's hear your New Year's resolutions, and plans for 2011: http://bit.ly/hXyfK7
West Midlands Musician: Martin Rider
Martin Rider of The Tristars has joined West Midlands Musicians group on ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP's Musicians & Bands Network: http://bit.ly/fpyfHK
Anybody get any great new CDs or music books for Xmas?
Anybody get any great new CDs or music books for Xmas? Jimmy did: http://bit.ly/dOt4Es
Musicians Wanted Berkshire London Surrey
Musicians Wanted Berkshire London Surrey: Guitarist seeks musicians to write/gig. Sonic Youth, etc: http://ping.fm/thrQB
More new members of ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP's Musicians & Bands Network from Cheshire, Warwickshire & London: http://bit.ly/e3MLXq
Monday 27 December 2010
Musicians Wanted Berkshire Hants Surrey
Musicians Wanted Berkshire Hants Surrey: Blues/rock drummer looking for a low down dirty blues band: http://ping.fm/uSkMO
Musicians Wanted London
Musicians Wanted London: I'm looking for a musician to start a cover band: http://ping.fm/Yy8t1
Musicians Wanted Cheshire / Gtr Manchester / Merseyside
Musicians Wanted Cheshire/Gtr Manchester/Merseyside: Are you looking for an informal jam situation?http://ping.fm/HjcdB
Musicians Available Warwickshire
Musicians Available Warwickshire: Guitarist for dep gigs. Available at drop of hat. All styles: http://ping.fm/tOmX8
Sunday 26 December 2010
Musicians Wanted Hampshire / West Sussex
Musicians Wanted Hampshire/West Sussex: Bass player required who wants to give Reggae a try: http://ping.fm/1bOY2
Friday 24 December 2010
Do you care about how you look on stage and in band photos? The discussion continues
Do you care about how you look..? The discussion on 'image' continues on ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP's Musicians & Bands Network: http://bit.ly/eU4kN7
Musicians Available Kent/London/W Sussex
Musicians Available Kent/London/W Sussex: Drummer ready to gig. Ex-Moths & Bootleggers. Most styles: http://ping.fm/Ilgmq
Thursday 23 December 2010
Musicians Available West Sussex
Musicians Available West Sussex: Bass player looking to join a band: http://bit.ly/gIWz93
Musician Available Surrey/London
Musician Available Surrey/London: New RTYD Member: Drummer w/backing vocals, saxophone, synthesizer, flute, harmonica: http://bit.ly/hK3li4
Wednesday 22 December 2010
Do you care about how you look on stage? A discussion about 'image' on RTYD
Mature musicians: Do you care about how you look on stage? A discussion about 'image' on RTYD: http://bit.ly/eU4kN7
Musicians Guitar: Why did you start playing the guitar? A discussion on ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP: http://bit.ly/hsbY7B
New RTYD Member
Paul Antonio of Particle Accelerator has joined the East Musicians Group on ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP Musicians & Bands Network http://bit.ly/gxnNGP
Tuesday 21 December 2010
Borough Studios, London
Borough Studios, London, wins the ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARD for Best Rehearsal Studio of 2010: Anyone used it? http://bit.ly/dGBbP9
New RTYD Member
Two new members of the South-East Musicians Group on ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP's Musicians & Bands Network: http://bit.ly/gxNpUr
New RTYD Members
Ian Lloyd of the Raw Deal Band (West Sussex) is now a member of ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP's Musicians & Bands Network: http://bit.ly/fb0D7q
New RTYD Members
Danny Hynes of Paddy Goes To Holyhead is now a member of ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP's Musicians & Bands Network: http://bit.ly/fjpOkX
Monday 20 December 2010
London Gig
London Gig: Tomorrow night (Tues) Big John Carter & Henri Herbert’s Christmas Boogie @ The Fiddler’s Elbow,1 Malden Rd, London, NW5
Some of the best music of 2010
Hear the some of the best music of 2010 in the ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARDS podcast, inc. Spirit of Play, Creak & 14 CG: http://bit.ly/dGBbP9
New RTYD members
New ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP Members today from Hants, West Mids and Nottinghamshire: http://ping.fm/zYIbW
Musicians Wanted Sussex
Musicians Wanted Sussex: New RTYD member, guitar/keys, looking to join a band: http://ping.fm/Qi5Dd
Sunday 19 December 2010
New RTYD Members
New RTYD Members today from Stirlingshire, North & West Yorks, Derbyshire, Wilts & Kent: http://ping.fm/Qe631
New RTYD Members
RTYD Musicians & Bands Network has another new member: His funeral song is 'In The Midnight Hour'. What's yours? http://bit.ly/fM0qgZ
New RTYD Members
Mick Rutherford of Derbyshire's Mick Rutherford Band, has joined RTYD's Musicians & Bands Network: http://bit.ly/e4riEc
Musicians Wanted Warwickshire / West Midlands
Musicians Wanted Warwickshire / West Midlands: Female vocalist, looking for blues/rock/jazz band; http://ping.fm/iHSpO
Saturday 18 December 2010
Musicians Wanted Kent
Musicians: New RTYD member: Drummer from Kent looking to join a band: http://ping.fm/f0pTn
Musicians Wanted Scunthorpe
Musicians: New RTYD member: Guitarist from Scunthorpe looking to join a band: http://ping.fm/CzE09
London Gigs
London Gigs Cancelled (due to snow): Small Fakers @ The Standard, Walthamstow: Tickets valid for next show: http://ping.fm/ZAbV6
Surrey Gigs
Surrey Gigs: Tonight!! 9pm, The Row Barge, Guildford: Sons Of Icarus (formally The Fury): Originals & classic rock & blues.
Musicians Wanted London/Kent/Surrey
Wanted guitar player with vocals aged between 45 and 55, should have more chops that a Tesco’s butcher, the voice
of Hilda Baker with the stage presence of buffalo on a stampede, rock, Indi, soul and funk covers to start, but own tunes to be written, will be gigging roughly every six weeks in and around London and the South East with several
gigs in France and Germany in the planning, you must play to a very good standard fully confident and be ready and willing to take the stage, sorry this is not an opportunity for a beginner.
of Hilda Baker with the stage presence of buffalo on a stampede, rock, Indi, soul and funk covers to start, but own tunes to be written, will be gigging roughly every six weeks in and around London and the South East with several
gigs in France and Germany in the planning, you must play to a very good standard fully confident and be ready and willing to take the stage, sorry this is not an opportunity for a beginner.
Dave Bennett||London|South
http://ping.fm/V5A9c
Do as he did: ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP: Captain Beefheart (January 15, 1941 – December 17, 2010)
Do as he did: ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP!! Captain Beefheart has died aged 69: It'd be great to hear your memories: http://bit.ly/f0IHBn
Friday 17 December 2010
The former-Moths rhythm section seeks frontman for new band
The Moths rhythm section is looking for a new frontman: http://bit.ly/epbU50
Surrey Gigs
Surrey Gigs: Tomorrow night! (Sat) The Greedies @ The Unicorn pub, 32-34 Grosvenor Rd, Aldershot, GU11 (www.rock-til-you-drop-musicians.com)
Musicians Discussion: Emotional performance:
Emotional performance: How do you deal with it? A musicians' discussion on ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP: http://bit.ly/fMbGv7
Individual effects guitar pedals or pedalboard? A musicians' discussion on ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP: http://bit.ly/e0aKLN
Musicians Wanted London
Musicians Wanted London: Originals & covers band looking for a singer: http://ping.fm/sdG4n
Thursday 16 December 2010
London Gigs
London gigs: Friday 17th Dec: Kryptic Klu and Fun & Frolics Xmas Party @ Lord Nelson pub, Old Kent Road, London, SE1
The 2010 ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARDS podcast!!
(Warning: this podcast contains some fairly vulgar language, courtesy of the usual suspects)
Press play (above), or follow this link:
Tuesday 14 December 2010
When no one reviews your gig, you do it youself! Patrick Begley on The Dipsticks Xmas Bash: gighttp://bit.ly/gvB4lG
Patrick Begley on The Dipsticks Xmas Bash: Dipping Our Sticks in The Constitution
It was around six thirty when we arrived at the Constitution. It perches on a perilous corner atop a slight hill above the Canal as it seeps out of Camden Town towards Kings Cross. I was more nervous than usual, perhaps because of an injudiciously acquired hangover.
The little Basement Bar of the Constipation seems to have some sort of part-time electrical gremlin. Last time we played there - no problem. But the time before that [and last Saturday] there were high pitched whines and rice krispies snapping their cracklepops through the PA for no apparent reason. It cranked up our stressometers as the audience slowly drifted in during our lengthy sound check.
We kicked off a bit later than usual, around nine o' clock. We started slowly and gently with 'Swamp Groove' and'Tearaway' before kicking up a gear into 'Wet Streets' and 'Alright John'. By then we realised we had a good crowd. The vibe was right and it was going to be a memorable night. The good thing about the Destitution is that you only need around 20 people for an atmosphere. We had maybe 30 and they were all up for it. It wasn't faultless. There were occasional mistakes, but when you play with a really hot, experienced rhythm section its just not that important if you trip up once in a while, the mighty beast travels on whilst you chase after and scramble back on board.
That's what gives our music its edge and vitality: the sense of danger, the leaps into the void, a hint of fear. Davy Graham, the late lamented local sixties guitar legend whose pictures adorn the walls of the Basement Bar, once told me, 'as long as you start and finish strongly, you can get away with a bit of mayhem in the middle.' A rocked up version of 'Don't Think Twice Its Alright' went down surprisingly well. As did two new songs, 'Wino Wisdom' and 'Valentine Always', which I'd only ever done as a solo acoustic number before.
We started the second set with 'Red House' and I hit one of those sublime rare zeniths in the solo where you actually make your own hairs stand up on the back of your neck. People were a-hooting and a hollering by the end. If I'd known how raucously and rapturously it would go down I wouldn't have followed it with the downbeat 'Fire Within', but by then it didn't matter, we were in the zone. I felt I'd started 'Let Me In' too slowly, but it didn't stop people dancing and the way we kick the poo poo out of 'Waiting For My Man' is always a highpoint of our gigs. This was no exception. Alan and Mark drive the thing like a V8 battering ram so I can take my strat to the ceiling and beyond. Our beautiful ex-drummer, Ange, was there in the audience yet again, and due to her exhortations, for an encore we reprised 'Edited Highlights', before our full on mental finale of 'Gone Dead Train.' We do it about ten times faster than the original version on the Performance soundtrack.
We rocked, we rolled, we kicked arse. We found the colour of our soul and we painted the world with it.
Patrick Dipstick Begley
Musicians Wanted Cheshire /Derbyshire /Greater Manchester
Musicians Wanted Cheshire /Derbyshire /Greater Manchester: Drummer wanted for The Shambolic. Originals: http://ping.fm/piarS
Musicians Wanted Leicestershire
Musicians Wanted Leicestershire: Bass player to complete the line up of covers band. 60s to present: http://ping.fm/zjbVc
Mature Musicians News
Mature Musicians News: Sadly, after 28 years The Moths have split up. Duncan Wallis is going his own way. http://ping.fm/Fww8z
London Gigs
London Gigs: Tomorrow night!! 14 Carat Grapefruit & Tres Retros @ The Comedy 7 Oxendon St, SW1 (www.rock-til-you-drop.com/GigCalendar.html)
Nevermind the Q Awards; Here's the ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARDS 2010
Nevermind the Q Awards; Here's the ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARDS 2010: http://bit.ly/fBUV6a
One of the six 2010 ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARDS
The winners of the 2010 ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARDS will be announced during the 2010 ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARDS podcast, which will available to listen to, or download, at 6pm on Thursday 16th December.
Musicians Available Kent/London/WSussex: This Drummer is great. HighlyRecommended. If I didn’t already have a drummer: http://bit.ly/aPkkbK
The 2010 ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARDS podcast countdown clock
The winners of the 2010 ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARDS will be announced during the 2010 ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARDS podcast, which will available to listen to, or download, at 6pm on Thursday 16th December.
Monday 13 December 2010
Musicians Available Kent/London/West Sussex
Musicians Available Kent/London/West Sussex: Drummer ready to gig. Blues/Rock/Indie/Funk http://ping.fm/ueevq
Glasgow musician Thomas C Callum just joined the Scotland Musicians group on RTYD: http://bit.ly/f0q6Pj
I hear a fantastic night was had by all on Saturday at The Dipsticks Xmas Bash. Got any photos anyone? http://bit.ly/hx6PAM
RTYD Tweet
Musicians: A 73 year old drummer just posted an ad on RTYD. Anyone out there older than than that and still rocking locally?
The Humber Musicians group on RTYD
Bomber Graham joined the Yorkshire & The Humber Musicians group on RTYD: http://bit.ly/i3bmm1
Musicians Available Norfolk: Drummer (73)
Musicians Available Norfolk: Drummer (73) available. Started before Rock&Roll was invented! Most styles http://ping.fm/pS5qd
Sunday 12 December 2010
Mature musicians:
Musicians: Jimmy's got about £350 to spend on a new electro-acoustic guitar - any recommendations anyone? http://bit.ly/fhS3iz
Joining the PRS - worth it or not?
Joining the PRS - worth it or not? A discussion by RTYD member Graham Hunt: http://bit.ly/gpY4DR
My last Libertine
I ran my last Libertine acoustic gig this afternoon - I will continue to promote these events as long as someone else runs them. Otherwise, they are over. If no one person wants to run them, I suppose we (yes you and you and you and me) could run them as a cooperative. How about that? We could have various members curating Acoustic Afternoons. That might be the spark these events need.
Anyway, this afternoon, after the initial disappointment of losing my first act, Andy Murray of Lion House cheered me up no end with an entertaining set of covers and originals and some great between-song banter. Alan Levy, late-comer to the bill, also made me laugh with his songs about beards, and sofas, and buses. And Tracy Picardi, who was playing her third Acoustic Afternoon, was enthralling. She has great songs and a great voice with which to sing them.
So it ended up being a nice afternoon.
I just don't want to run them anymore.
Anyway, this afternoon, after the initial disappointment of losing my first act, Andy Murray of Lion House cheered me up no end with an entertaining set of covers and originals and some great between-song banter. Alan Levy, late-comer to the bill, also made me laugh with his songs about beards, and sofas, and buses. And Tracy Picardi, who was playing her third Acoustic Afternoon, was enthralling. She has great songs and a great voice with which to sing them.
So it ended up being a nice afternoon.
I just don't want to run them anymore.
RTYD Tweet
After filling the bill @ the 11th hour for today's gig @ The Libertine, I'm now an act short again. I've had it with this promotion lark.
Saturday 11 December 2010
Musicians Available West Midlands
Musicians Available West Midlands: Bass player, nice gear, 60s, 70s, some vocals, Shadows, Beatles, Kinks: http://ping.fm/9Jw9O
RTYD Tweet
Was all set to go out for the Dipsticks Xmas party, but now stuck in with Xmas hat, poppers & Xfactor. Bollocks. Toby
RTYD Tweet
That Woodwork O'Level really paid off; 2010 RTYD Awards nearly finished (Awards Cos wanted approx 600 quid to make 'em!) Toby
RTYD Tweet
Finally!! Found a fourth act for tomorrow's Acoustic Afternoon at The Libertine, SE1: http://ping.fm/sAZyk Toby
Friday 10 December 2010
Musicians Wanted London
Musicians Wanted London: New bass players looking for bands/musicians: http://bit.ly/emHw0b
Thursday 9 December 2010
Musicians Wanted London
Musicians Wanted London: Drummer & Bassist seek Vocals/Guitars/Keys for 70s rock: http://ping.fm/Zk3a2
Wednesday 8 December 2010
Musicians Wanted London
Musicians Wanted London: Guitarist looking to play music with like-minded people. Eagles/Byrds etc: http://ping.fm/eRwrN
Acoustic Act Wanted London
Anyone want to play an acoustic set at The Libertine, Borough, SE1, this Sunday afternoon? If so, please email Toby at rock-til-you-drop.com
Tuesday 7 December 2010
Creak at the ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP Xmas Party
Creak playing The Who's 'I Can't Explain' at the ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP Xmas Party: http://bit.ly/e0Ffj0
The wonderful Spirit of Play at play: ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP, 4, Denmark St (Nov 2010)
http://www.spirit-of-play.co.uk/
"A Good Time" by Kryptic Klu for XMAS No.1!! Hear it here, recorded live at the ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP XMAS PARTY: http://bit.ly/hNLPKt
"A Good Time" by Kryptic Klu at the ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP Xmas Party
And, as you will see, 'a good time' was certainly had by all those in attendence.
Acoustic act needed for Sunday afternoon 12th Dec. at The Libertine, SE1
Acoustic act needed for this Sunday afternoon (12th) at the Libertine, Borough, SE1: Contact: Toby at rock-til-you-drop.com. Thanks.
ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP.COM in the Musicians Union magazine
ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP.COM, Facebook & Twitter: Social networks that benefit musicians, says The Musicians Union magazine: http://bit.ly/eUyWga
ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP.COM in the Musicians Union magazine
In an article by Anne Wollenberg for the latest edition of The Musician, the Musician Union's quarterly magazine (Autumn 2010), ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP.COM is included along with Facebook and Twitter as a social network that can benefit musicians' careers.
Obviously it's too small to read below, but you can read it here or click on the image to open a pdf.
Obviously it's too small to read below, but you can read it here or click on the image to open a pdf.
Monday 6 December 2010
Sunday 5 December 2010
Musicians Wanted Suffolk
Musicians Wanted Suffolk: Female Vocalist, Sudbury, blues voice with soul; also folk, pop or rock: http://ping.fm/028Ik
Musicians Wanted Beds/Bucks/Northants
Musicians Wanted Beds/Bucks/Northants Drummer for dep work; country music & all styles; can also sing: http://ping.fm/q1Qid
Musicians Wanted Essex
Musicians Wanted Essex: Quality drummer, prefers blues but adaptable, looking for band: http://ping.fm/eETTv
Friday 3 December 2010
Musicians Wanted East Sussex
Musicians Wanted East Sussex: SKIFFLE and COUNTRY band require vocalists & keyboard player: http://ping.fm/yRToY
Thursday 2 December 2010
RTYD NEWS: THE MULESKINNERS
RTYD NEWS: THE MULESKINNERS - 'TomCat Boogie' Video by THE MULESKINNERS - Myspace Video: http://ping.fm/hX3GV
Live Gig Broadcast Survey
Please take 5mins to complete this survey about broadcasting your gigs live on the internet: http://ping.fm/LpvJU
Let's hear about your guilty musicial pleasures!! Join the discussion on the RTYD Musicians & Bands Network: http://ping.fm/ARkaX
Musicians Available East Sussex/Surrey/West Sussex
Musicians Available East Sussex/Surrey/WSussex: Bass Player looking for regular gigging band http://ping.fm/7c9HV
Wednesday 1 December 2010
Musicians Wanted West Midlands: Urgent! Bogus Blooze need a dedicated bass player for regular gigs. http://ping.fm/1tKGe
Mature Musicians Wanted/Available Ads,
Musicians Wanted E Sussex/London/Surrey: Pro rock drummer available for working band/covers/ originals: http://ping.fm/DDXHc
Mature Musicians News: PUNKS NOT DAD on the radio
Mature Musicians News: Listen to PUNKS NOT DAD talking sheds, IKEA and Mariah Carey on Welsh Radio: http://ping.fm/0hY9M
Tuesday 30 November 2010
Rokpool.com's COOL ‘n’ YULE Xmas Album
The Rokpool.com Xmas song contest was a great success with over 100 entries and thousands of voters. Rokpool have produced an album which costs a fiver and is available from the Rokpool website. A link to the sampler is below.
COOL ‘n’ YULE XMAS ALBUM SAMPLER http://bit.ly/aldBkz
ROKPOOL.COM http://bit.ly/aLrkKK
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER http://twitter.com/rokpoolmusic
VISIT US ON FACEBOOK http://bit.ly/9FAGmA
Got my PUNKS NOT DAD DADVENT CALENDAR today in the post! It's sick! And my daughter can't have it! http://bit.ly/dXCUzG
Musicians Wanted Cleveland/Northumberland/Tyne and Wear: SINGER/SONGWRITER LOOKING TO START A DUO/BAND: http://ping.fm/ijPTW
Monday 29 November 2010
Musicians Wanted County Antrim/Armagh/Down: The Belfast Band is looking for singer/guitarist & keyboard http://ping.fm/khQLX
Last chance to see The Lone Groover in 2010
For the final time this year, THE LONE GROOVER will be bringing his folk 'n' bop revue to yet another London boozer.....and this time it's "up west" on Saturday 4th December (Is it too early to call it a Xmas bash?).
The venue is The Lamb & Flag, 24 St James Street, (just off Oxford St - opp Bond St tube) W1......an old fashioned Saturday night knees up and it's gratis!
(Also appearing is Age Jackson - alt Country and beat poetry, Acoustic Cavemen - eclectic acoustic covers, + Dan Cash).
Peace 'n' Luv 'n' Haight,
TLG
(On stage - 8.15pm)
Sunday 28 November 2010
Quebec Musician Christopher Stewart
Quebec Musician Christopher Stewart on ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP: http://ping.fm/GQ7Af
Musicians Surrey & South-East
Musicians Surrey & South-East: What can we do together? A discussion on the ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP MUSICIANS&BANDS network: http://bit.ly/fymEyB
Musicians Wanted Hampshire/West Sussex
Musicians Wanted Hampshire/West Sussex: Reggae drummer seeks musicians/band into roots reggae, dub etc http://ping.fm/mJOaH
Friday 26 November 2010
Musicians Wanted (Cheshire/Clwyd/Shropshire) Bass player wanted for rock/pop band Ruff Diamond: http://ping.fm/WUvl8
The Small Fakers remaining gigs of 2010
Sat 27 Nov - The Riga, Southend
Fri 3 Dec - The Cellars, Portsmouth
Fri 10 Dec - Private Function
Sat 11 Dec - The Sound Bar, Birmingham
Sat 18 Dec - The Standard, Walthamstow, London
Wed 22 Dec - The Globe, Cardiff
Mon 27 Dec - The Beaverwood Club, Chislehurst
Wed 29 Dec - The Flowerpot, Derby
Thur 30th - Boom Boom Club, Sutton
Oh and early 2011:
Sat 8 Jan - BACK AT THE HALF MOON, PUTNEY
Fri 14 Jan - Jagz, Ascot
Sat 15th Jan - Cox's Yard, Stratford Upon Avon
Mature Musicians Wanted/Available Ads
Musicians Wanted (Warwickshire & W.Midlands) Guitar/drums seek bass/vocals. Guitarist 54; Drummer 42: http://ping.fm/bUpzd
Thursday 25 November 2010
PUNKS NOT DAD DADVENT CALENDARS NOW ON SALE!
Sorry everyone - a shameless way of trying to make a few quid to keep Punks Not Dad in Horlicks and IKEA bedside tables! Our celebrtated DADVENT CALENDARS are now on sale! The perfect Xmas gift for any middle-aged bloke who would normally be getting a set of hankies or a matching pen & pencil set...
Limited stocks (no, really!) available so get one while you can to avoid dadly disappointment. Just £5.99 INCLUDING P&P and only available from WWW.PUNKSNOTDAD.COM (there's a link on the home page).
Hanx! PUNKS NOT DAD
Limited stocks (no, really!) available so get one while you can to avoid dadly disappointment. Just £5.99 INCLUDING P&P and only available from WWW.PUNKSNOTDAD.COM (there's a link on the home page).
Hanx! PUNKS NOT DAD
Mature Musicians Wanted/Available Ads,
Musicians Wanted (Cheshire/Manc/Mersey) Keys bass drums singer wanted for 60/70s band. Work waiting: http://ping.fm/1eAmM
14 Carat Grapefruit's Xmas Gig is Weds 15th Dec @ The Comedy, 7 Oxendon St, SW1: http://ping.fm/y2bDY
Musicians Wanted/Available
Mature Musicians Available: (Northumberland/Tyne & Wear) Bass player & BVs. Blues, rock, own transport: http://ping.fm/npv1o
Wednesday 24 November 2010
RTYD Member Paul Reynoldson's band SpringFoxToo are available for Xmas Eve booking: http://bit.ly/e2Mcug
RTYD Member Simon Waller is performing with his band A Body of People @ The Hope & Anchor, Islington Saturday (27th) http://bit.ly/gdmrY8
Musicians Wanted/Available
Mature Musicians Wanted: (London/Essex) Singer wanted to join 2 guitars, bass & drums covers/originals http://ping.fm/z5Shu
Musicians Wanted/Available
Mature Musicians Available: (Strathclyde) Guitarist looking 4 like-minded musos. Blues, rock & country: http://ping.fm/4QkFW
Musicians Wanted/Available
Mature Musicians Wanted: (Swindon, Wiltshire) Lead Vocalist Wanted. Classic rock. http://ping.fm/cpkkU
Tuesday 23 November 2010
Monday 22 November 2010
Mature Musicians Available (Beds/Bucks/N'hants) Drummer available 4 dep work. Will consider most styles http://ping.fm/CrlJS
The right notes in the wrong places
So, Pocket Rocket, once again reduced to three pieces (the last time it was thus was circa 2002), took to a West End stage on Saturday night, playing its first gig in nearly a year. In support of the wonderfully witty and harmonious Spirit of Play, we played the eight songs we have been rehearsing with our new drummer Nigel over the last 2-3 months.
In the last few months I have been trying to add a new lead guitarist to the line-up, but have not had any success in finding the right man for the job. In my heart of hearts I want my old guitarist back, but the time isn't right for him. So in his, and any other guitarists, absence, I have had to take over lead guitar duties.
I've had to learn some of my former lead guitarist's solos, which have been an education and a challenge. I didn't even know you could bend a G-string that far! So Saturday was going to give me a good idea about whether I could manage to add lead guitar to lead singing and rhythm guitar duties. One of the complications is pedal volume settings. But that's the subject of another blog all together
The response to the 3-piece sound we made was positive, however, this coming from two Grapefruits, and others in attendance. As a result I feel inclined to continue taking on the responsibility. I may even become a better, more confident guitar player, you never know.
I fluffed parts of the lead solos that I shouldn't have, but there were no howling bum-notes just the right notes in the wrong places. Like a good game of Mastermind, I'm sure in good time I will be get all the right ones in the right places.
So why do people seem to think that 3 hours of live music is not worth the price of a pint? RTYD Musicians&Bands Forum: http://bit.ly/bjNaBT
Musicians Wanted/Available
Mature Musicians Wanted: (London/Surrey) Guitar player 37 wants bass & drummer 4 ambient sonic groove: http://ping.fm/jL3ff
Musicians Wanted/Available
Mature Musicians Available: (London) Vocalist looking for duo/band. Acoustic/electric: http://ping.fm/us6yo
Sunday 21 November 2010
Warning: This blog contains flash photography
These are two photographs taken with a compact camera of the same Spirit of Play performance at ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP 4 Denmark Street, last night.
The second photograph (taken with a compact camera) is not in perfect focus - unfortunately, the battery on my camera ran out before I could take any more. However, I usually take enough shots that a small percentage are in good focus. It's worth doing, because as you can see from the first photograph, the flash on the compact camera has completely killed all the atmosphere of the event. And I know there was one.
Mature Musicians Wanted/Available Ads
Mature Musicians Available: (Cheshire/Grtr Manchester/Merseyside) Bass player looking to jam: http://ping.fm/L4Juu
Mature Musicians Wanted/Available Ads
Mature Musicians Available: (Berks/Bucks/Oxon) Experienced bass player, 59, looking for band. http://ping.fm/WaGGy
Saturday 20 November 2010
Friday 19 November 2010
Mature Musicians Wanted/Available Ads
Mature Musicians Wanted (Chiswick, London) Singer (42) seeking a covers band, Tom Petty to Tom Waits: http://ping.fm/pJjAe
Thursday 18 November 2010
Mature Musicians Wanted/Available Ads
Mature Musicians Wanted: (East Sussex/Kent/London) Drummer wanted for newly formed rock covers band: http://ping.fm/djjw1
Mature Musicians Wanted/Available Ads
Mature Musicians Ads: (Hook, Hants) Female vocalist, 46 wants to get out and gig and have a few laughs: http://ping.fm/HxUwM
Mature Musicians Wanted/Available Ads
Boston, Lincolnshire, bass player looking to join /form sixties retro R/B soul band: http://ping.fm/uDfxG
This Friday: The Lone Groover plays The White Lion, Streatham High Road, SW16
Dear Comrades,
Armed with an acoustic guitar and a lot of faith THE LONE GROOVER will be engaged in a spot of civil disobedience in the form of a "Folk 'n' Bop" singalong at The White Lion, 232 Streatham High Road, SW16 on Friday 19TH Nov. He'll be ably supported by Tolly & Superbreaker on the ones and two's as they indulge in some serious vinyl vandalism, spinning 45's from the vaults and beyond (Punk/Ska/Northern/Indie etc). The headline act, JD Smith will be adding to the mayhem with some acoustic punk/blues.......
TLG on home turf? and it's GRATIS!
You must not miss............it's gonna' be a Friday night like they used to make 'em.......Look Sharp!
Peace 'n' Luv 'n' Haight,
TLG
(TLG on stage 9.45 - JDS on stage 10.30)
www.myspace.com/thelonegrooveruk
www.myspace/stuartjamesdurdensmith
www.whitelion.org.uk
"Pity the nation whose leaders are liars, whose sages are silenced and whose bigots haunt the airwaves" Lawrence Ferlinghetti
MAXIMUM F N B
Wednesday 17 November 2010
Punks Not Dad's DADVENT CALENDAR is out now. F~*k the kids, get one for yourself: http://ping.fm/LRLg4
Tuesday 16 November 2010
And then there were three (but not for long): The re-launch of Pocket Rocket
My band Pocket Rocket is playing on Saturday night at 4, Denmark St, in the West End. Soon to be re-branded The Alley Cat, it is a basement venue that occupies the same space that many great rock bands and icons have recorded some very famous music: The Stones, the Beatles, the Sex Pistols and Black Sabbath, to name a few. Mark McKendrick of the Dipsticks and I think they should cash in on all that history, so that's my attempt, as a player-promoter, to do so.
Saturday night's a ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP night and the headline band is Spirit of Play, who I have been a fan of since I first saw them, and whose singer Michael Caines has been an enthusiastic contributing member of the RTYD network since its early days. If you like Belle & Sebastian, you will like them.
Pocket Rocket, which is temporarily at least, a three piece, is just about match fit. In the absence of a lead guitarist, I have taken over lead guitar duties. I have risen to the task, but after over fifteen years of not having to add these duties to my lead-singing and rhythm playing, it has been challenging. I've enjoyed practicing my guitar at home. Re-familiarising myself with a few scales, and generally trying to get better at my instrument.
But last night at our final rehearsal before Saturday, for the first time I felt overwhelmed by all I had to think about. I was singing on auto-pilot, which I hate doing. Basically, because I was too busy worrying about my guitar tuning, my amp and pedal board settings.
Now that Nigel, our new drummer, has his parts down and is familiar with the songs, the next step is to tighten things up and perform the songs. But I couldn't last night, 'cos my attention was so divided. I have enjoyed turning up the distortion, but in doing so, some of the funkier guitar playing has been compromised. I miss the dynamics that two guitars can create, one cleaner than the other; one strumming, one picking; one funky, one playing power chords. I don't miss not hearing myself so well. And a lead guitarist who can't get his levels right. I do however miss the man and his playing, when it was great, which it could be.
We also need another backing singer. A couple of birds (or mums, even), would be nice. Mike, my lifelong friend and bass player, sings, but he's not a natural. He comes up with some good BV ideas, but his tuning can be a bit suspect, so we need a third singer with a strong voice.
In 2011, I intend to spend more time focusing on Pocket Rocket, without deluding myself about what we can achieve. I'd like to record another EP, and add members to the band, while continuing to gig more regularly. I won't be putting on as many RTYD gigs in 2011, but I hope to be booking Pocket Rocket with other RTYD-associated bands at London venues.
Sunday 14 November 2010
Friday 12 November 2010
Thursday 11 November 2010
Sign in to the MUSICIANS & BANDS NETWORK using your Facebook, Google or Yahoo account
You can now sign into the MUSICIANS & BANDS NETWORK using yr Facebook, Google or Yahoo accounts: http://ping.fm/USfqg
Wednesday 10 November 2010
Tuesday 9 November 2010
Monday 8 November 2010
Sunday 7 November 2010
The 4th Suit are looking for any bands in the Bath/Corsham/Chippenham area that want a gig on 3rd Dec? http://bit.ly/bbxvqg
Friday 5 November 2010
Thursday 4 November 2010
Guildford, this is Guildford: full of lovely mature musicians.
I like going to Guildford. I have loads of good memories of Guildford, notwithstanding the 2009 Boileroom Disaster. Almost every part of the place sparks at least one.
Last night's ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-SOCIAL was held there. The hosts were enthusiastic RTYD members Paul Santilli and Kirsty Pollock of Surrey band, The Greedies. I'd met Paul before, but not Kirsty who is also lovely. Did I just call a bloke lovely?
Charles Ranson of Said & Done (also lovely, too) came out with his bassman Howard (lovely), and both were soon followed into The Keystone pub (not exactly lovely, though it did have some nice beers) by bandmates Trevor and Colin (very nice). Finally, we were joined by RTYD stalwart Trisha McNair (it goes without saying...) and members of her band Riff Raff (riff-raff....just kidding....nice guys)
It was a modest turnout, but enough to constitute a social event. Said & Done had not met the Greedies, and both promised to support each other at their upcoming gigs. We talked a lot about the ins and outs of choosing and playing cover versions. Apparently, it is quite common to create spreadsheets to establish the popularity of song choices amongst the band members. I have even been promised a glimpse of one of these. We'll see.
Almost all of those present had been Weekend Warriors or through the Get Rocking programme for mature musicians who want to get on stage again, or indeed, for the first time. This is how and where they had all initially joined bands, though their bands, it seems, have been through some personnel changed since completing the course.
I had to leave at 10:20 to get my train, which was a shame, but hey! there's always next time.
It's not just musicians, vocalists have toys, too, apparently: a discussion on ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROPhttp://bit.ly/cIXUZC
Thanks to all those that turned out to the ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-SOCIAL last night in Guildford!! http://ping.fm/nqrIE
Wednesday 3 November 2010
A ramble on the storm before the calm
November is a busy month for RTYD. We have the RTYD-SOCIALs in Surrey, Oxford and London: the first, kindly organised by Paul Santilli of the Greedies, the second by Guy Pearce, and the latter by Mark Thirkell, my London apprentice. We also have the voting for the 2010 RTYD Awards, and four gigs, including one with my band Pocket Rocket on the bill.
In December there's another couple of events, but come 2011, I'm cutting back to just the one a month at 4 Denmark St, recently renamed The Alley Cat.
The last year and a half that I have been promoting gigs has been really interesting, but I'm not sure a promoter's life is for me. Not at this level. There have however been highs, such as the PUNK-ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP night when TV Smith and Gaye Advert came out to see Punks Not Dad, and I got to meet them both and have my photo taken with them. And there have been lows like The Boileroom Disaster, Guildford, 2008.
The problem, and one of the reasons I'm knocking most of the gigs on the head, is that I never got past the point that I didn't have to rely on the bands to bring a good crowd. I refused to hassle bands about bringing people, which of course you have to do to make any money at this level. I am just not interested in becoming an absent promoter who doesn't give a damn about which bands he puts on as long as they bring people through the door. There are enough of these. And my mission has always been to primarily help bands that struggle to develop a following, that are hobbyists and who play original material, by helping to provide them with an audience to bolster the half-a-dozen friends they do manage to get out.
I have to confess, too, that more recently, I have started to feel some complacency creeping in. I've found myself promoting bands I don't even like. I've found myself having to fill bills with bands I don't really like. Promoting more events than I can find bands I like, to play. A lot of the bands brings a handful of people, expecting a RTYD audience, and one doesn't exist. The audience is largely the other bands. Truth is, this is the only time you are going to get old gits out to watch old gits playing: when they're sharing a bill with another band.
My band has just finished getting a new drummer up to speed on eight songs, and is making its debut with its new 3-piece lineup on 20th November in support of Spirit of Play at The Alley Cat. In 2011 I need to focus on my band for a while. I need to get it some gigs, for a start.
I try to make an effort to get to as many gigs as I can, but with my band rehearsing once a week, having three gigs a month, and needing the occasional night out with friends, I'm pushing it 'indoors'.
I'd like to go to all the Outbursts gigs, they're fun, I love watching them, but it's just not possible.
In some respects I dread going out and playing live again; without a real shtick, with just a bunch of original alternative-rock songs, and no real following. It's no secret that I set RTYD up to create a scene for bands like mine. I know that there's a lot of very good bands out there, in the same boat, and in a way seeing them struggle to develop a following hasn't helped.
I don't know? Is RTYD making enough of a difference? I'm not sure. When the Outbursts play in East London, when any band that has posted there gig on the RTYD calendar, plays, I will Twitter/Facebook,etc. it. Does it make a difference. I doubt it. I need to concentrate on making it make a difference. Me putting on gigs does not make a difference. So, I have to find something that will.
I hope the RTYD-SOCIAL events are a success. But I'm sure these too will suffer from lack of interest. From members who don't see the benefit of socialising in the real world with a bunch of other musicians.
I was in two minds about going to the first of the November Socials in Guildford, but my presence has been requested, so I will go. It is my first return to Guildford since the disappointing gig there last year. I suppose if it's going to be a poor show, I should at least be there to share any disappointment.
Looking on the bright side, RTYD has a healthy following around Guildford and in Surrey now, healthier than two summers ago. So, I hope to be pleasantly surprised by the turn out.
Tonight!! fr. 6:30pm: There is a ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-SOCIAL event in Guildford @ The Keystone, 3 Portsmouth Rd, GU2 4BLhttp://bit.ly/9kJ0yG
Tuesday 2 November 2010
Monday 1 November 2010
Sunday 31 October 2010
I'd wear them in bed if my wife would let me. Happy Birthday Dr Martens!! http://tinyurl.com/39v5oo5
Thursday 28 October 2010
Wednesday 27 October 2010
The 2010 ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARDS
I had big plans for the ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARDS this year. I remember planning to get sponsorship, and have more awards. Well, it didn't happen. I sent some emails, got one back from Hiwatt, who seemed a bit interested; Marshall sent me a nice email back, saying thanks but no thanks; and the rest ignored me.
Still, I'm not one to be put off by such things; if I was, I'd have given up making music around 1987 when the demo cassettes started coming back in the post along with xeroxed record company letters 'passing' on them. The show will go on, and the awards will be lovingly handcrafted and the engraved brass plaques will be funded by the 'firm', just as they were last year. The ERNIE BALL-ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARDS sounds shit anyway. (The ROTOSOUND-ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARDS sounds okay, though -Ed). (Fuck off - Author).
Last year's deserving winners of a 'Coffin' (so-called because that is indeed the shape of the award) were Creak for Best Band, 14 Carat Grapefruit for Best CD (Long Time Coming), Punks Not Dad for Best Song (In Me Shed), The Joint, Kings Cross, for Best Rehearsal Studio and the Dublin Castle, Camden, for the Best Venue.
I haven't decided how and when to present the Coffins this year, but I'm a few weeks ahead of where I was last year, so I'm not panicking. Quite yet. Gotta source some wood first, preferably oak...um, floorboards, like last year. No, they looked good, ask any of the winners, who incidentally are currently residing in the where are they now? file, where all award winners end their careers.
Of course that's not true. I know, cos they're all playing in December. See the RTYD Calendar for more details.
Voting link: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/NJR8C56
Voting for the 2010 ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP-AWARDS is under way!! Place your votes 'ere: http://ping.fm/DcL2X
Tuesday 26 October 2010
Pedal Power: a discussion for guitarists and bass players on the RTYD Musicians Network: http://ping.fm/Bteyq
RTYD welcomes new members from Lancashire, Surrey & London to its Musicians' Network: http://ping.fm/3ChEd
Friday 22 October 2010
Last night's RTYD gig at the Fiddler's, Chalk Farm
Thanks to all those that piled into The Fiddlers Elbow last night to see HM Band, Blues Trinity and the Mighty Care Takers.
Finally I had the pleasure of seeing Steve Denholm fronting his Mighty Care Takers (albeit from my post at the venue door), and mighty they are.
Blues Trinity, who followed TMCT on stage, were as professional as bands at this level can get, while still being really nice people. It's a fine line, in my experience, especially with the blues lot; but they are definitely on the right side of the line. And they bought a film crew, so I look forward to seeing the results on YouTube soon.
The HM Band, too, were a pleasure to meet and have on, tonight playing a set of original works mostly about fighting in Afghanistan and Iraq. Maybe Hugh's McManners has been listening to a lot of the Angelic Upstarts lately? Seriously though, these songs have all been written for a good cause. Watch this (my)space to find out more.
Incidentally, whatever happened to the Angelic Upstarts? They must still be going, like all the rest of 'em. I was talking to someone about Mensi the other day, someone who knew him. I forget who, now. I hate that.
Thursday 21 October 2010
Wednesday 20 October 2010
Tuesday 19 October 2010
Monday 18 October 2010
Acoustic gun for hire
Hi guys, I am looking for gigs, solo acoustic. My influences are eclectic and include: Lou Reed, Serge Gainsbourg, Bowie, Iggy Pop & James Williamson, Nick Cave, Leonard Cohen, Jacques Brel, Johnny Cash, Led Zeppelin 3, Rolling Stones late 60's/early 70's, Edith Piaf, Otis Redding, Dion, Johnny Thunders, all the arty pretenscious stuff which I love. It is very different to my electric stuff, very quiet, controlled, sparse and personal, quite romantic if truth be told. People seem to like it. So any gigs would be welcome. Thank you. Michael Fleck
http://www.rock-til-you-drop-musicians.com/profile/MichaelFleck
The Lone Groover rides again
THE LONE GROOVER continues his one man folk ‘n’ bop assault on the capital this Thursday 21st at The Wilmington Arms, 69 Rosebury Avenue EC1 (Opp Exmouth Market – Farringdon or Angel tube). Where he'll be supporting three of the most happening bands on the circuit (The Dash + Bobby Petrov + Philadelphia Mainline + Recharged Radio DJ’s) as a guest of the mighty Death and Glory crew. Thursday’s almost the weekend so don’t be shy - DO NOT MISS!
Doors 7.30 – On stage 8.15
Peace 'n' Luv 'n' Haight,
TLG
Download music for free by The Lone Groover here
Saturday 16 October 2010
Thursday 14 October 2010
Wednesday 13 October 2010
Video of two songs by The Dipsticks at ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP at 4, Denmark St, 2nd Oct: http://ping.fm/4cQ7r
Save the Classic Rock Club: An appeal to members by promoter Mark Newman
Well I am hoping this is not the last Newsletter I will be sending to all our loyal Classic Rock Club Regulars...I am saddened to report I have been in front of the Committee at the Cheshunt Football Club headquarters and I have the following to report.....
Because the attendances at the last 3 Classic Rock Club monthly Gigs have been on the low side, the Football club committee feel it would be more beneficial to the club if they were to let our regular once monthly Friday spot out to another group of people who want to use the club premises for their activities...
We have been going for four years now and we have a Nucleus of around 30 regulars, who never miss a monthly Friday Gig...But we need at least a minimum of 50 members or more, to attend on a regular basis to get the gig to work for the club...
I believe we have slowly built a unique club, which has become a bit of an institution in Cheshunt to Music Lovers, over the last 4 years and it would be a crying shame to declare it “End of an Era”...So we have been given one more chance by the Club Committee to prove to them, that The Classic Rock Club can work and get a stronger audience....
If you Genuinely like want to keep what we have at ‘The Classic Rock Club’, and want it to carry on in the foreseeable future, I Appeal to you to make the Effort and come along to the club on the last Friday of each month to support ‘Live Music’ and keep what is left of our Culture Alive...
So Please come along this month to prove to the committee that we want to carry on and keep the club going !.... On Friday 29th October for a Special CD Launch Party for the Original Line-Up of ‘Tea for the Wicked’....they will be supported by Classic Rockers ‘FYREFLY’...We can only keep the club open if we use it ... “We Lose it if we don’t Use It”
Doors open 7:30 pm…Admission £3…First Band on at 9pm sharp
The Classic Rock Club at Cheshunt Football Club, Theobalds lane, Cheshunt EN8 8RU...5 mins from Theobalds Grove Stn or by road Junction 25 on the M25 just off the A10
Keep Classic Rock Alive....
Best wishes DJ Chilli...
Tuesday 12 October 2010
'Family Christmas' 14 Carat Grapefruit's hilarious Xmas single; Available at iTunes, November 2010 http://ping.fm/LabXc
Enter Doug Hamilton, into Stevie Buckerfield's small world.
Another fine time was had by all present at the ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP Acoustic Afternoon at The Libertine this Sunday. Tributes to John Lennon, who would have been 70 had he not been in the Beatles, were delivered by nearly all the acts who, as well as knowing John Lennon, not personally of course, all seemed to know Stevie Buckerfield of Live Wires, Bourbon Street Revival and acoustic duo Waterfield, the latter bringing him and his cronies to South East London on ths sunny Sunday afternoon. Thanks god for Stevie Buckerfield and his musical promiscuity!
Opening act Not Just Any Tom, Nick & Harry, brought two generations of the family, son Harry, aged just 15, playing bass in support of dad and mum team, Tom and Nick, on guitar/bvs and lead vocals respectively. And what a bass player Harry already is.
When they get together with two acoustic guitars and their shared love of 70s new wave music, Stevie Buckerfield and Paul Waterman call themselves Waterfield. On Sunday, they delivered a perfect mix of new wave covers and original Waterman songs of lost innocence and nostalgia.
RTYD member Doug Hamilton had come all the way from Frome near Bath in Somerset with his repertoire of funny songs about crashing computers, spam - not the processed meat - and Christmas - not the religious festival but the consumer-driven one. A real pleasure.
The afternoon was capped off by four-piece, the Acoustic Cavemen, who played a refreshing mix of 90s/00s covers including the Pixies, Echo & The Bunnymen and Arctic Monkeys, kept buoyant by some great percussive accompaniment.
Monday 11 October 2010
Sunday 10 October 2010
DB Sound & Light The best Musicians & DJ's Equipment
RTYD welcomes DB Sound & Light (Kent) to the BANDS, FANS & INDUSTRY network
DB Sound & Light The best Musicians & DJ's Equipment
DB Sound & Light The best Musicians & DJ's Equipment
This weekend Kryptic Klu, Creak, The Outbursts, Lost & Punks Not Dad all played. It'd be great to hear about the gigs: http://ping.fm/8VWSz
Saturday 9 October 2010
Friday 8 October 2010
RTYD welcomes Birdman of Brighton band The MoTones (http://ping.fm/7l80X) to ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP http://ping.fm/Iy8fM
Aeroplane Blondes in November
Sat 20th Nov, The Railway, Crawley
Fri 26th Nov, The Dukes Head, Leatherhead
Fri 26th Nov, The Dukes Head, Leatherhead
Thursday 7 October 2010
Songwriting: a discussion on ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP (The mature musicians' social network) http://ping.fm/G9jq5
Wednesday 6 October 2010
ROKPOOL.COM is running a Xmas Songwriting Competition - the prize being inclusion on a CD album! http://ping.fm/HACOa
Anyone gigged yet at the revamped Binswood Tavern, aka The Venew, in Leamington? App., they're looking for bands: http://tinyurl.com/37v99pt
Tuesday 5 October 2010
Tomorrow night (Wed): The Lone Groover @ The White Lion, 232 Streatham High St, SW16: http://ping.fm/7XByY
Monday 4 October 2010
RTYD at 4 Denmark St: A great indoors experience (not so great, outdoors)
Two years ago I started ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP online. One and a half years ago I put on my first gig, at the Dublin Castle in Camden. Three months later I put on my second gig - back then one gig every three months seemed about the right frequency. On the bill that night along with Spirit of Play and 14 Carat Grapefruit, were the Dipsticks and The Great Outdoor Experience. Last night at one of ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP's new haunts at 4 Denmark St., these two bands met again.
Was it only a year and a quarter ago that I first met these guys? It feels like I've known them much longer. And the way it's going I will know them for many more years to come. That has been the success of the gigs over the last eighteen months. The attendances may not have always been that impressive, but the network of bands that RTYD has inspired in London is what makes me happiest.
I'm going to cut back on the gigs I put in on in the New Year. I'm not going to put on regular gigs at the Dublin or Hope or the Fiddlers. And I think I have to knock the Libertine acoustic gigs. I know I have threatened to do it before. But I want to cut back to (mostly) one gig a month, and like last night's gig, at 4 Denmark St.
Denmark St. is a great location. Apart from transport-wise, it is also a good location because everyone knows where it is, and what it stands for. The venue is a good size - 100+ capacity. It is a simple PA set up. I like Isabelle who is the new manager. Long may it last.
Anyway, last night the Dipsticks sounded fantastic there. Despite the heavy rain outside, the band's loyal fans came out in support and along with a contingent of passing trade, began the night's whooping and dancing. Patrick Begley's lead guitar playing sounded more confident than ever, and his whammy bar work evoked the spirit of the big-H, Himself.
I never get tired of hearing and watching them. And despite being motionless, save his spider-fingers and gum-masticating jaw, the Entwhistle-like figure of Mark McKendrick is as always enthralling. So on it. So in it.
The Dipsticks are for life, not just for Christmas, when they play again at their home venue The Constitution in Camden (11th December).
The Great Outdoor Experience, led by Phil Ram, never disappoint either. They have to be one of the best three-pieces around. Phil is the consummate frontman, one who is not hindered by being tied to a microphone stand by his guitar playing. They unveil a handful of new songs tonight and fill the club with beautiful pop-rock polystyrene chips. God bless them and the outdoors they care so deeply about.
For me the post-gig outdoors experience was not a great one. I cycled home in torrential rain with a sore throat and a throbbing headache, and then I wake the next morning to find my voice box will not open.
Saturday 2 October 2010
Friday 1 October 2010
ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP.COM is 2 years old today.
Instead of me addressing the 'state of the union', I want to hear what RTYD’s members think.
What more could be done? And how could it be done? Bearing in mind that it is run in my spare time and as a labour of love, and that the activity of its members has a large part to play in its success.
Should we just let it evolve? Should we push it? Should we monetise it?
If you are new to the network, what is your impression of it? Is it confusing? Is it overwhelming?
Will RTYD change anything? Has it changed anything? Has it helped you, or your band? If not, why not?
Etc, etc, etc.
It’s open season.
Thanks, Toby
Thursday 30 September 2010
Wednesday 29 September 2010
Tuesday 28 September 2010
Monday 27 September 2010
Saturday 25 September 2010
Oh what a night! Late September back in twenty-ten.
I never got to see all my favourite punk bands. I've since seen some of them live, and although I'm sure they never sounded as good, or played quite so well, they obviously lacked the naivety, the energy, and the youthful spirit that drove them through their finest 3 minutes. They were also playing venues the size of the Forum in Kentish Town and the Astoria, once to be found on the Charing Cross Road. I can't imagine what it would have been like to see the likes of the Stranglers or the Damned at the Hope & Anchor, where last night we put on another PUNK-ROCK-TIL-YOU-DROP gig, featuring some of the oldest punks acts in town that you may not have heard of yet but you should have, namely Tres Retros,The Outbursts, Live Wires and The Lone Groover. Back in '76 it would have sounded much the same as it did last night, their just would have been more sweat, more spittle, more pogoing. Stuff, at our age, we could probably do without anyway, eh?
I had a punk band at school but we never graduated to real instruments from our cardboard ones. Last night I played electric guitar in my first proper punk band. I have to confess I was just a little nervous, mostly because I didn't want to let the Outbursts down. And it was a somewhat tentative debut when compared to the confident playing of the two guitarists that followed me in covering for the missing Neale Muldowney, but it was a start. And it was really fun.
It's not that I haven't played hard and fast before. I did in the 90s. Here's the link to proof. But we weren't technically a punk band. We certainly didn't look like one. And my guitar playing these days with Pocket Rocket is fairly clean, so sticking on all that distortion was refreshing. It was funny too not having to sing. Well, maybe funny is not the word. Different, is. I could have done some BVs too, had I been a little less worried about my C-G-Bs. Or at least, which order they came in.
Anyway, first up was stalwart of the RTYD live scene on both sides of the stage, Brian Caulfield, tonight playing punk-folk songsmith The Lone Groover, and later playing himself, punk fan and a supporter of live music locally.
As the Lone Groover, Brian got the ball rolling and the room warmed up, delivering a bespoke set of aptly chosen and dramatically executed cover songs of 7" inch punk classics, all of which he brought along on vinyl and displayed at his feet for all to reminisce over. He is the new star of the scene.
I wanted to make it up to the Live Wires after they took to the stage at the previous PUNK-RTYD gig closer to 11 o'clock than I like to go without a duvet over my head (FYI, I've always slept with the duvet over my head) (who cares? - Ed). Anyway, I love that they come to the scene with their black shirts, their jagged guitar riffs and one-word song titles; Like it's 1979; Like things are changing; Like the black before it's over-painted gold; Like the short hair before the flicks and the highlights.
Then it's my moment with The Outbursts, as described above. Two songs later, and it's all over. Just when I was relaxing into my new position, too. Following me, though, is deputy guitarist number two Paul Warwick of Trad Arr. He takes on some of the lead playing I couldn't possibly manage, with aplomb. And looks very 1978, to boot. Don't ever ask him to borrow his guitar strap, though (I should explain that, but get down to see him play with The Outbursts again, and all will be revealed).
Andy Golding, front man of Trad Arr, and guitarist with 80s band The Wolfhounds, is guitarist 3 and Thunderbird 1 to my Thunderbird 3. Or something. He starts by turning the amp up. Good idea. And proceeds to play the guitar with Hendrix-like extension-of-the-body proficiency, his tremolo arm rarely leaving his strumming hand. He is on fire, and adds a real vitality to the Outbursts sound. Go see them soon. And Trad Arr. And the Wolfhounds, when they play their reunion show at the Lexington, N1, in November.
I was introduced to Michael Fleck of Tres Retros by Otto from 14 Carat Grapefruit. Michael's musical career began in South Africa where he played with a punk band that enjoyed some success there. He came to England in the late 70s, and the early 80s for good. He saw the Clash and Sham and went to The Roxy, and did loads of other great things that I am totally envious of. Tonight his three piece turned all the knobs, pulled out all the stops and rocked like their lives depended on it. I wasn't sure what their punk 'schtick' was from their sound check, but their headling performance revealed that they clearly come from a pre-'76 US school of punk rock. This is confirmed by a cover of Search & Destroy and contradicted by a Lady Gaga one.
(Incidentally, as one has yet to surface, I'm offering a free RTYD T-shirt to the first person to send me a photo of me playing with the Outbursts)
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