14th September 2024 - Vinyl Tap, Preston
Wayne's 5th Memorial Gig and Alfie are back at Vinyl Tap. The venue was packed as expected and everyone was in good spirits and voice.
As usual Alfie hooked their desk into the venue's PA system and on this occasion Ian even used the venue's drum kit. After a bit of jiggery pokery we eventually got the sound required to proceed.
Opting to play only two original songs tonight Alfie played a variety of mostly 60s and 70s songs. Set one being a prime example with all numbers going down very well.
An interval raffle and auction of Wayne's Fender Squire Guitar and a Fender style Bass raised over £600 for Cancer research and with a donation of the gig fee and a gift from the venue the final total was around the £1,000 mark.
Set two was all 60s and 70s "danceable" covers and that is exactly what happened, with everyone having a good time with lots of aforementioned dancing. A post second set discussion with Gary from a pool team from the North East on a weekend away said "it was the highlight of their weekend so far"....perhaps choosing Preston as the destination for your annual "pool team" trip away may call in to account exactly how high a bar you were setting :-)....bollox no!, I'll take that....Alfie were brilliant ha ha!
An excellent night where everyone had a blast and lots of money was raised for a good cause. Everyone had a good time and that, after all, was the point of the whole shebang! Result I say!
Paul
As usual Alfie hooked their desk into the venue's PA system and on this occasion Ian even used the venue's drum kit. After a bit of jiggery pokery we eventually got the sound required to proceed.
Opting to play only two original songs tonight Alfie played a variety of mostly 60s and 70s songs. Set one being a prime example with all numbers going down very well.
An interval raffle and auction of Wayne's Fender Squire Guitar and a Fender style Bass raised over £600 for Cancer research and with a donation of the gig fee and a gift from the venue the final total was around the £1,000 mark.
Set two was all 60s and 70s "danceable" covers and that is exactly what happened, with everyone having a good time with lots of aforementioned dancing. A post second set discussion with Gary from a pool team from the North East on a weekend away said "it was the highlight of their weekend so far"....perhaps choosing Preston as the destination for your annual "pool team" trip away may call in to account exactly how high a bar you were setting :-)....bollox no!, I'll take that....Alfie were brilliant ha ha!
An excellent night where everyone had a blast and lots of money was raised for a good cause. Everyone had a good time and that, after all, was the point of the whole shebang! Result I say!
Paul
9th August 2024 - The Musketeer, Leigh
Alfie's first time at the Musketeer and a good time it was. Maureen and the staff in the venue were very friendly and helpful and it didn't take long to get set up in the fairly modest stage area.
The first set was a mixture of originals (5) and covers and all went down very well with an enthusiastic and friendly audience.
The second set was more of the same with only two originals on show. The audience remained enthusiastic during the whole gig and several discussions with the band took place at "half time" and at the end of the gig.
Given the gap since the Band last played live we all acquitted ourselves quite well, so much so that Maureen was more than happy to have Alfie return next year.
A great gig and a great venue, happy days.
Paul
The first set was a mixture of originals (5) and covers and all went down very well with an enthusiastic and friendly audience.
The second set was more of the same with only two originals on show. The audience remained enthusiastic during the whole gig and several discussions with the band took place at "half time" and at the end of the gig.
Given the gap since the Band last played live we all acquitted ourselves quite well, so much so that Maureen was more than happy to have Alfie return next year.
A great gig and a great venue, happy days.
Paul
11th May 2024 - Pendle Witch, Atherton
Alfie return yet again to the Pendle Witch for their 200th gig. This is a great venue which encourages live original music. The load in is a bit bizarre having to carry gear down an alleyway but it is well worth it!
Tonight was Eurovision which may have affected audience numbers but there were still plenty of punters to make the night rock!
Set One was a good mixture of original and covers and they all went down well.
Set two was more of the same and certainly Gary the Landlord was enjoying Alfie rocking it up!
Paul the guitar player, still suffering with his broken wrist, had just returned from 3 weeks in America so the ability to rehearse was limited and the band were lacking a little "match fitness" but still put on a good show even if they were all "blowing" a bit at the end.
Another good night and we look forward to returning soon to this great little venue.
Paul
Tonight was Eurovision which may have affected audience numbers but there were still plenty of punters to make the night rock!
Set One was a good mixture of original and covers and they all went down well.
Set two was more of the same and certainly Gary the Landlord was enjoying Alfie rocking it up!
Paul the guitar player, still suffering with his broken wrist, had just returned from 3 weeks in America so the ability to rehearse was limited and the band were lacking a little "match fitness" but still put on a good show even if they were all "blowing" a bit at the end.
Another good night and we look forward to returning soon to this great little venue.
Paul
2nd March 2024 - The Wheatsheaf, Preston
Almost a year since Alfie were last in the Wheatsheaf and four Month's since Alfie last gigged due to Paul breaking his left wrist. As a guitar player that tends to make things a little challenging to say the least!
A very damp night did not deter a fair sprinkling of punters and Alfie did an adapted first set, Paul still has difficulties playing certain songs, with a mixture of originals and old cover songs which all went down well.
After a short thirty minute break, set two was more of the same which also received a good reception. Four month's away from gigging certainly left the band way short of "match fitness" and we couldn't even manage an encore....all knackered!
It's great to be back up and running and the Wheatsheaf is a good place to re-establish that gigging feeling....joy and relief in equal measure! Roll on the next one!
Paul
A very damp night did not deter a fair sprinkling of punters and Alfie did an adapted first set, Paul still has difficulties playing certain songs, with a mixture of originals and old cover songs which all went down well.
After a short thirty minute break, set two was more of the same which also received a good reception. Four month's away from gigging certainly left the band way short of "match fitness" and we couldn't even manage an encore....all knackered!
It's great to be back up and running and the Wheatsheaf is a good place to re-establish that gigging feeling....joy and relief in equal measure! Roll on the next one!
Paul
11th November 2023 - Red Lion, Longton
Back at the Red Lion for another musical extravaganza. Not a bad sized performing area which is always a bonus.
Set one was a good mixture of originals and covers and Set two likewise had a good selection of up tempo music to get the audience moving....which they did particularly in set two.
We had "the worm" and some less than impressive attempts at Cossack dancing, which added to the whole musical panapole!
Another great night and we hope to get back early in 2024.
Paul
Set one was a good mixture of originals and covers and Set two likewise had a good selection of up tempo music to get the audience moving....which they did particularly in set two.
We had "the worm" and some less than impressive attempts at Cossack dancing, which added to the whole musical panapole!
Another great night and we hope to get back early in 2024.
Paul
30th September 2023 - Pendle Witch, Atherton
It has been a year since Alfie last played at the Pendle Witch and it was great to be back.
Daz and the team welcomed us and we set up for a 9.30 start. The Pendle Witch always has an audience who enjoys live music and so it proved tonight.
The first set contained eight original songs and four covers, all went down very well with the enthusiastic audience.
After a 50 minute break the band were back for a second set counting four original songs and eight covers all very well received. After two encores it was midnight when the exhausted band broke down their equipment and chatted with the audience who were very complimentary of the evenings performance.
The Pendle Witch is a "proper" live music venue and it is an absolute pleasure to play there! After much jigging around of conflicting diaries, Daz booked us again for May 11th next year. It seems a way off but it will be a highlight to look forward to in our 2024 events list.
An excellent night and not even slightly tainted by Paul getting a £100 ticket from a "lovely" traffic cop on the way home (MOT run out Grrrr)!
Happy Days
Paul
Daz and the team welcomed us and we set up for a 9.30 start. The Pendle Witch always has an audience who enjoys live music and so it proved tonight.
The first set contained eight original songs and four covers, all went down very well with the enthusiastic audience.
After a 50 minute break the band were back for a second set counting four original songs and eight covers all very well received. After two encores it was midnight when the exhausted band broke down their equipment and chatted with the audience who were very complimentary of the evenings performance.
The Pendle Witch is a "proper" live music venue and it is an absolute pleasure to play there! After much jigging around of conflicting diaries, Daz booked us again for May 11th next year. It seems a way off but it will be a highlight to look forward to in our 2024 events list.
An excellent night and not even slightly tainted by Paul getting a £100 ticket from a "lovely" traffic cop on the way home (MOT run out Grrrr)!
Happy Days
Paul
9th September 2023 - Vinyl Tap, Preston
Back at Vinyl Tap for Wayne's Memorial gig on a hot Preston night. The venue was very busy with lots of family and friends of Ann,Wayne and the band.
A fantastic atmosphere saw Alfie deliver set one which was predominately original material all going down very well with lots of dancing and overall enthusiasm.
There was a break for the usual raffle, which included a rather nice Fender Stratocaster as a prize.
Set two offered more covers, although the band did play a total of ten original songs during the course of the night. Once again lots of dancing and much enthusiasm for the music was on display.
Alfie love playing this gig and Ann always does a fantastic job in organising it. Before you know it we will be back again rocking the night away in memory of Wayne.
Paul
A fantastic atmosphere saw Alfie deliver set one which was predominately original material all going down very well with lots of dancing and overall enthusiasm.
There was a break for the usual raffle, which included a rather nice Fender Stratocaster as a prize.
Set two offered more covers, although the band did play a total of ten original songs during the course of the night. Once again lots of dancing and much enthusiasm for the music was on display.
Alfie love playing this gig and Ann always does a fantastic job in organising it. Before you know it we will be back again rocking the night away in memory of Wayne.
Paul
27th August 2023 - St Annes Music festival, Ashton Gardens
Kicking off the Sunday Sessions at St Annes Music Festival, Alfie got things moving with an hour long set starting at 12 noon! The weather had been a bit wet earlier on and was just starting to clear as the event started. The large marquee was half full at the start and gradually the audience increased as the show went on.
Lots of family and friends of the band were there most notably Ana, attending her first gig in a long while and Harry the dog! Harry has attended numerous rehearsals but this was the first time he has seen the band live! That said he slept through most of the set much as he does during rehearsals. Fortunately the audience did not take Harry's lead and the band went down very well with lots of toe tapping and enthusiastic applause.
Alfie played fourteen songs in the hour long set of which nine were originals and all were well received. This was great fun to play and we were promised a slot at next years event but at a more advantageous time slot.
Happy days!
Paul
Lots of family and friends of the band were there most notably Ana, attending her first gig in a long while and Harry the dog! Harry has attended numerous rehearsals but this was the first time he has seen the band live! That said he slept through most of the set much as he does during rehearsals. Fortunately the audience did not take Harry's lead and the band went down very well with lots of toe tapping and enthusiastic applause.
Alfie played fourteen songs in the hour long set of which nine were originals and all were well received. This was great fun to play and we were promised a slot at next years event but at a more advantageous time slot.
Happy days!
Paul
28th July 2023 - Old Black Bull, Preston
Here we are again back at one of our favourite haunts, The Old Black bull in Preston. Another Friday night gig which is always a challenge for venue's to draw in punters. Tonight was quiet to start with but filled up as the night went on.
The new Managers were very welcoming and this was their first Friday gig under their tenure. The stage seemed larger tonight than normal (it wasn't) and the Band had plenty of room which is a very pleasant change.
Set one was the usual mixture of covers and originals and it all went down very well with the ever increasing audience.
Set two was more weighted to covers which again went down well with lots of dancing. Mid way through the set a party of four arrived and sat directly in front of the the Band and quickly got into the music, nothing unusual there except one young lad was 6ft 10ins tall and was kind of hard to miss. The band were playing well tonight and the mood was very upbeat and happy.
The evening finished just after midnight and we all took the "long road home" on a cool summer's evening. Looking forward to returning to "The Bull" very soon.
Paul
The new Managers were very welcoming and this was their first Friday gig under their tenure. The stage seemed larger tonight than normal (it wasn't) and the Band had plenty of room which is a very pleasant change.
Set one was the usual mixture of covers and originals and it all went down very well with the ever increasing audience.
Set two was more weighted to covers which again went down well with lots of dancing. Mid way through the set a party of four arrived and sat directly in front of the the Band and quickly got into the music, nothing unusual there except one young lad was 6ft 10ins tall and was kind of hard to miss. The band were playing well tonight and the mood was very upbeat and happy.
The evening finished just after midnight and we all took the "long road home" on a cool summer's evening. Looking forward to returning to "The Bull" very soon.
Paul
14th July 2023 - The Royal oak (Dead Uns), Fleetwood
Back again at "Dead Uns" on a quiet Friday evening. A funeral party were leaving as the band arrived and that sort of set the mood haha!
This was a very quiet gig and nothing of any note really happened.
Alfie played the usual mixture of covers and originals and all were well received by the small number of punters in the pub.
Unfortunately on this evening the pub lived up to it's nickname "Dead Uns", but hopefully when we return in the future things will be rocking again.
Still, it is always good to play live and it was still good fun!
Paul
This was a very quiet gig and nothing of any note really happened.
Alfie played the usual mixture of covers and originals and all were well received by the small number of punters in the pub.
Unfortunately on this evening the pub lived up to it's nickname "Dead Uns", but hopefully when we return in the future things will be rocking again.
Still, it is always good to play live and it was still good fun!
Paul
16th June 2023 - Vinyl Tap, Preston
A hot and steamy evening in Vinyl Tap in Preston and Alfie return for another festival of music! Many familiar faces have turned up in support and the mood is great!
Alfie were using their backup PA desk and things went well in that area, not so good in the guitar area though. Various problems affected the guitar sound and after a few songs the set was stopped and some re-patching occurred which cured the problem.
Once back in action the first set completed amid much enthusiasm and quite a bit of dancing.
Like the first set the second set was a mixture of originals and covers all going down well. One encore was about all the band could manage in the strength sapping heat but everyone went away feeling good....which is after all the aim!
Looking forward to returning to VT soon for another great night!
Paul
Alfie were using their backup PA desk and things went well in that area, not so good in the guitar area though. Various problems affected the guitar sound and after a few songs the set was stopped and some re-patching occurred which cured the problem.
Once back in action the first set completed amid much enthusiasm and quite a bit of dancing.
Like the first set the second set was a mixture of originals and covers all going down well. One encore was about all the band could manage in the strength sapping heat but everyone went away feeling good....which is after all the aim!
Looking forward to returning to VT soon for another great night!
Paul
8th April 2023 - Number Fifteen, St Annes
Shhhh....Alfie are back at Fifteens and we have to play quietly! Lee, the Landlord, has been forced by his Landlord to reduce the noise levels for Saturday night bands! In view of this Alfie turned down and Ian the drummer played with blasticks.
Alfie had lots of friends and family in for our "home" gig! The first set was a good mixture of originals and covers which went down well!
The second set was more of the same and several people started to dance and were not too happy when we had to stop playing just after the new 11pm curfew.
So did playing quietly affect our performance .... absolutely! The band struggled to hear the drummer, the drummer struggled to play properly....but bizarrely Lee was well happy and paid us a £30 bonus! Funny old game this!
This will probably be our last time at Fifteens as it is untenable for Lee to continue with Rock Bands....a crying shame as this is a fabulous rock venue.
Paul
Alfie had lots of friends and family in for our "home" gig! The first set was a good mixture of originals and covers which went down well!
The second set was more of the same and several people started to dance and were not too happy when we had to stop playing just after the new 11pm curfew.
So did playing quietly affect our performance .... absolutely! The band struggled to hear the drummer, the drummer struggled to play properly....but bizarrely Lee was well happy and paid us a £30 bonus! Funny old game this!
This will probably be our last time at Fifteens as it is untenable for Lee to continue with Rock Bands....a crying shame as this is a fabulous rock venue.
Paul
1st April 2023 - The Red Lion, Longton
Last time Alfie were here it was "Scorchio" in the extreme with most of the audience trying to catch a breeze in the beer garden. Not a problem this time as it was on the chilly side outside so everyone was posited inside.
Tonight was boxing: Anthony Joshua versus Jermaine Franklin on the TV and Alfie had to operate around that boxing match. We played a longer first set than usual with a mixture of originals and covers. The reaction ranged from enthusiastic to luke warm as punters waited for the fight to start.
The fight started at 10.30 and ran for 12 rounds and almost an hour time! As far as I could tell nothing much happened as the two giants danced about slapping each other. Joshua won apparently but the boxing aficionados in the audience were less than happy with his performance.
The second shortened set was mainly covers which went down well with the now well oiled audience looking to get over the "shite fight"... lots of dancing and enthusiasm. Alfie eventually wrapped things up with an encore just after midnight.
A good night eventually if tainted a little by the two fat lads on TV "doing handbags"! We are back at the Red Lion later in the year and hopefully normal service will be resumed!
Good fun nonetheless!
Paul
Tonight was boxing: Anthony Joshua versus Jermaine Franklin on the TV and Alfie had to operate around that boxing match. We played a longer first set than usual with a mixture of originals and covers. The reaction ranged from enthusiastic to luke warm as punters waited for the fight to start.
The fight started at 10.30 and ran for 12 rounds and almost an hour time! As far as I could tell nothing much happened as the two giants danced about slapping each other. Joshua won apparently but the boxing aficionados in the audience were less than happy with his performance.
The second shortened set was mainly covers which went down well with the now well oiled audience looking to get over the "shite fight"... lots of dancing and enthusiasm. Alfie eventually wrapped things up with an encore just after midnight.
A good night eventually if tainted a little by the two fat lads on TV "doing handbags"! We are back at the Red Lion later in the year and hopefully normal service will be resumed!
Good fun nonetheless!
Paul
18th March 2023 - The Wheatsheaf, Preston
It has been a while since Alfie were at the Wheatsheaf, which before the great "Covid Con" was a regular haunt for the boys.....and nothing much has changed!
Back on the old familiar stage and set one was a great mixture of originals and covers which all went down well.
Set two was a similar mixture which was well received and caused lots of toe tapping and sporadic bouts of dancing.
City Centre gigs tend to be pretty standard fare with not a great deal of note happening. A transient audience makes it difficult for the band to make a connection. That said, those who are there for the duration of the entertainment always have a good time...and that is what it is all about. Happy days!
Paul
Post script : The picture in this piece was taken from My video feed and shows mainly Me as I forgot to change the settings back to wide angle after the last gig....that's my story and I am sticking to it!
Back on the old familiar stage and set one was a great mixture of originals and covers which all went down well.
Set two was a similar mixture which was well received and caused lots of toe tapping and sporadic bouts of dancing.
City Centre gigs tend to be pretty standard fare with not a great deal of note happening. A transient audience makes it difficult for the band to make a connection. That said, those who are there for the duration of the entertainment always have a good time...and that is what it is all about. Happy days!
Paul
Post script : The picture in this piece was taken from My video feed and shows mainly Me as I forgot to change the settings back to wide angle after the last gig....that's my story and I am sticking to it!
11th March 2023 - Old Black Bull, Preston
After a very long break, Alfie are back at "The Bull" where we started playing as a band over ten years ago. The stage area is now bigger and much better laid out.
An outbreak of local fisticuffs sort of set us up nicely for our first set which was a mixture of original material and covers. Everything went down well with the audience including a new song which we premiered (Leave Me).
The second set was similar to the first with lots of dancing and enthusiastic audience interaction. We finished with two encores just after midnight. Lots of compliments were offered by some of the guys and gals watching which is always nice.
A quick break down and off into the rather wet and dreary night. It is good to be back at the Bull and we are back in July....can't wait!
Paul
An outbreak of local fisticuffs sort of set us up nicely for our first set which was a mixture of original material and covers. Everything went down well with the audience including a new song which we premiered (Leave Me).
The second set was similar to the first with lots of dancing and enthusiastic audience interaction. We finished with two encores just after midnight. Lots of compliments were offered by some of the guys and gals watching which is always nice.
A quick break down and off into the rather wet and dreary night. It is good to be back at the Bull and we are back in July....can't wait!
Paul
18th February 2023 - VINYL TAP, PRESTON
First gig of 2023 and Alfie are back at Vinyl Tap where we signed off in 2022. A few technical issues were resolved and we kicked off around 9.30.
A good sized crowd saw Alfie perform a first set of six original songs and six covers. All went down very well with an appreciative audience and sporadic dancing broke out!.
Set two was three originals and nine covers and they also went down very well with many showing us their best moves on the dance floor.
While this was a mostly uneventful gig it was well received nonetheless.
Alfie always enjoy playing at Vinyl Tap and look forward to returning later in the year.
Paul
A good sized crowd saw Alfie perform a first set of six original songs and six covers. All went down very well with an appreciative audience and sporadic dancing broke out!.
Set two was three originals and nine covers and they also went down very well with many showing us their best moves on the dance floor.
While this was a mostly uneventful gig it was well received nonetheless.
Alfie always enjoy playing at Vinyl Tap and look forward to returning later in the year.
Paul
2nd December 2022 - VINYL TAP, PRESTON
Back again at Vinyl Tap on a chilly Friday evening in Preston. Always an easy set up here as the stage is small and we mostly use the house PA.
Set one contained seven original songs and went down very well with an enthusiastic audience. Two gentlemen in particular were well and truly "up for it" with lots of dancing, posing and vocal encouragement.
They insisted on a hand shake as they left at the end of set one and were very effusive with their compliments about the band.
Set two contained two original songs and a lot of more familiar covers and all went down very well.
Alfie played well tonight, particularly in set one and were very well appreciated by the audience. Sean expects to get us back around February and we can't wait. Great gig .... living the dream haha!
Paul
Set one contained seven original songs and went down very well with an enthusiastic audience. Two gentlemen in particular were well and truly "up for it" with lots of dancing, posing and vocal encouragement.
They insisted on a hand shake as they left at the end of set one and were very effusive with their compliments about the band.
Set two contained two original songs and a lot of more familiar covers and all went down very well.
Alfie played well tonight, particularly in set one and were very well appreciated by the audience. Sean expects to get us back around February and we can't wait. Great gig .... living the dream haha!
Paul
5th November 2022 - Elephant & Castle, Adlington
Bonfire night was in full swing as we headed off to Adlington which is just south of Chorley. The Elephant & Castle was quiet on the outside but absolutely packed and noisy on the inside. Helen the hostess for the evening was very welcoming and we set up in good time for a 9pm start.
Set one was a mixture of originals and more familiar songs and it went down extremely well with lots of dancing and "joining in"! Lots of compliments in the interval in the fantastic hot and sweaty atmosphere.
Set two went down equally well with the very enthusiastic audience. Two encores and they still wanted more but we had to be off by 11.15 and so we were. A relatively quick break down and then off home in a misty November night.
Fantastic gig, fantastic audience and fantastic venue .... so, Fantastic it is then! Helen would like us to return in 2023.... we can't wait!
Paul
Set one was a mixture of originals and more familiar songs and it went down extremely well with lots of dancing and "joining in"! Lots of compliments in the interval in the fantastic hot and sweaty atmosphere.
Set two went down equally well with the very enthusiastic audience. Two encores and they still wanted more but we had to be off by 11.15 and so we were. A relatively quick break down and then off home in a misty November night.
Fantastic gig, fantastic audience and fantastic venue .... so, Fantastic it is then! Helen would like us to return in 2023.... we can't wait!
Paul
7th October 2022 - Royal British Legion, Aspull
The Royal British Legion club in Aspull, Wigan is a traditional affair. Nice sized stage in a nice sized concert room and a a bijou changing room, but a changing room nonetheless.
Neil, who used to run the Balcarres Arms got us the gig and was there with David the concert secretary to greet us. Told you it was "traditional".
Set one was a mixture of original songs and some relatively familiar "old" songs in a rocky tradition. All went down well with lots of applause.
After a 30min or so break we then performed set 2 which had far more well known numbers as well as some audience requests in it and it went down slightly better than set one. After an encore we finished up as requested just before 11.15 for a nice early night.
Talking to the audience at the end and at the interval, they said they enjoyed "the act" which is always good news. We look forward to returning to the RBL in the future. An unexpected fun gig is always a pleasure and this was such!
Paul
Neil, who used to run the Balcarres Arms got us the gig and was there with David the concert secretary to greet us. Told you it was "traditional".
Set one was a mixture of original songs and some relatively familiar "old" songs in a rocky tradition. All went down well with lots of applause.
After a 30min or so break we then performed set 2 which had far more well known numbers as well as some audience requests in it and it went down slightly better than set one. After an encore we finished up as requested just before 11.15 for a nice early night.
Talking to the audience at the end and at the interval, they said they enjoyed "the act" which is always good news. We look forward to returning to the RBL in the future. An unexpected fun gig is always a pleasure and this was such!
Paul
24th September 2022 - Vinyl Tap, Preston
Back at Anne's invitation in Vinyl Tap for Wayne's Memorial Gig. The stage at VT never gets any bigger, so we shoehorned ourselves on at rather odd angles to ensure we fited. Tony ran his desk through the house PA which offered, to say the least, mixed results.
Before we started, the local host played three acoustic numbers before administering the raffle which lasted as long as you would imagine and the rest.
Alfie eventually took to the stage around 9.45 and played a very scrappy first set hampered by an incredibly "bassy" on stage sound and a non adjustable lighting rig which shone around 1 million Kilajoules straight into the performers eyes. So not being able to hear or see was a little of a disadvantage one could argue.
Alfie played a mixture of original and more familiar material to a good reception. After a short break set two was much of the same but a lot better. The set itself had to be shortened somewhat due to time constraints.
A good night for Wayne's charity and everyone seemed to enjoy the night and complements were in abundance. A relatively enjoyable night and also one where lessons were learned. Next time we will turn the bloody lights off and play by torchlight if necessary.
Paul
Before we started, the local host played three acoustic numbers before administering the raffle which lasted as long as you would imagine and the rest.
Alfie eventually took to the stage around 9.45 and played a very scrappy first set hampered by an incredibly "bassy" on stage sound and a non adjustable lighting rig which shone around 1 million Kilajoules straight into the performers eyes. So not being able to hear or see was a little of a disadvantage one could argue.
Alfie played a mixture of original and more familiar material to a good reception. After a short break set two was much of the same but a lot better. The set itself had to be shortened somewhat due to time constraints.
A good night for Wayne's charity and everyone seemed to enjoy the night and complements were in abundance. A relatively enjoyable night and also one where lessons were learned. Next time we will turn the bloody lights off and play by torchlight if necessary.
Paul
23rd September 2022 - Pendle Witch, Atherton
Finding The Pendle Witch in Atherton is no mean task. Tucked down an alleyway just off the Main Street is a nice sized pub with a nice sized performing area.
Once set up and sound checked things looked okay for the gig ahead. The pub really started to fill just before we went on for the first set which was a good mixture of original and more familiar numbers and went down very well with the enthusiastic local contingent.
Set two was more of the same with the enthusiasm increasing as the night went on. Two encores ensued before we were paid by the equally enthusiastic Landlady who expressed her love of original material and got us to sign the pub wall.
Looks like we will be returning to the Pendle Witch and I for one can't wait. This goes down as one of the better gigs Alfie have had. Great stuff!
Paul
Once set up and sound checked things looked okay for the gig ahead. The pub really started to fill just before we went on for the first set which was a good mixture of original and more familiar numbers and went down very well with the enthusiastic local contingent.
Set two was more of the same with the enthusiasm increasing as the night went on. Two encores ensued before we were paid by the equally enthusiastic Landlady who expressed her love of original material and got us to sign the pub wall.
Looks like we will be returning to the Pendle Witch and I for one can't wait. This goes down as one of the better gigs Alfie have had. Great stuff!
Paul
28th August 2022 - Unbound Brewery, colne (r&B Festival)
The second gig of the day and third of the weekend saw a somewhat weary Alfie travelled down the hill in Colne and across the river Colne Water to Unbound Brewery for a 9pm outdoor gig (that was a surprise).
The brewery is part of an old mill building and had a large gazebo outside and an open stage which backed onto Colne Water.
We set up on the stage opting to use the local PA with our desk and to play from the back line rather than put the instruments through the PA.
The sound check was relatively quick and the overall sound was actually very good so we started with our weekend set one. After about two songs it started to "spit on" and by the end of song five we had to stop and take cover or risk electrocution as the rain had decided to show more resolve and get heavier!
Frazer the manager of the brewery suggested we move the gazebo to cover the stage (which with hindsight and a better weather forecast he would have done earlier). Moving the gazebo was no mean feat given its size and weight, but with members of the audience grabbing a leg each (10) we manoeuvred it to cover the stage. After a few minutes to dry off bits of gear we were up and running again doing an extended first set but including more familiar songs all of which went down very well with a very enthusiastic and vocal audience who liked to dance.
After a short break we did a final forty minutes picking songs "on the fly" to perform, great fun and it kept the band on their toes.
An excellent night when it looked like it could have been a disaster. Thanks to Frazer and his team and a great audience for making a very tired band feel less weary as we had a great time. Did I mention that the sound was great? This is why we do what we do!
Paul
The brewery is part of an old mill building and had a large gazebo outside and an open stage which backed onto Colne Water.
We set up on the stage opting to use the local PA with our desk and to play from the back line rather than put the instruments through the PA.
The sound check was relatively quick and the overall sound was actually very good so we started with our weekend set one. After about two songs it started to "spit on" and by the end of song five we had to stop and take cover or risk electrocution as the rain had decided to show more resolve and get heavier!
Frazer the manager of the brewery suggested we move the gazebo to cover the stage (which with hindsight and a better weather forecast he would have done earlier). Moving the gazebo was no mean feat given its size and weight, but with members of the audience grabbing a leg each (10) we manoeuvred it to cover the stage. After a few minutes to dry off bits of gear we were up and running again doing an extended first set but including more familiar songs all of which went down very well with a very enthusiastic and vocal audience who liked to dance.
After a short break we did a final forty minutes picking songs "on the fly" to perform, great fun and it kept the band on their toes.
An excellent night when it looked like it could have been a disaster. Thanks to Frazer and his team and a great audience for making a very tired band feel less weary as we had a great time. Did I mention that the sound was great? This is why we do what we do!
Paul
28th August 2022 - Duke of Lancaster, Colne (R&B Festival)
Gig one of two of the day was a 4pm spot at the Duke of Lancaster as part of the Colne R&B Festival. The Duke has two stages at either end of the pub allowing a band to set up while the other band is performing. One of the stages is large and well appointed while the other is small and pokey and right next the toilets ....you guessed it, we got the pokey stage!
Tony opted to set up a full PA rig, which he admitted with hindsight was a mistake. We squeezed ourselves onto the tiny stage, Tony having to stand on the floor. The first few songs of our "festival set" were beset with low feedback problems largely due to a hollow stage and a low ceiling.
Once our sound issues were sorted, the first set went down well considering the problems and the audience seemed to enjoy the original songs as well as the covers that were performed.
Set two went down better than the first but as the band had more songs than the two hour slot we were allocated allowed we had to finish it early before a relatively quick break down. Then there was a fight to get the gear through the crowds and back into the car / van.
A testing gig to say the least but a least we completed it. Once packed up we headed out onto the busy high street for some Portuguese street food before driving down the hill for our second gig of the festival.
Paul
Tony opted to set up a full PA rig, which he admitted with hindsight was a mistake. We squeezed ourselves onto the tiny stage, Tony having to stand on the floor. The first few songs of our "festival set" were beset with low feedback problems largely due to a hollow stage and a low ceiling.
Once our sound issues were sorted, the first set went down well considering the problems and the audience seemed to enjoy the original songs as well as the covers that were performed.
Set two went down better than the first but as the band had more songs than the two hour slot we were allocated allowed we had to finish it early before a relatively quick break down. Then there was a fight to get the gear through the crowds and back into the car / van.
A testing gig to say the least but a least we completed it. Once packed up we headed out onto the busy high street for some Portuguese street food before driving down the hill for our second gig of the festival.
Paul
27th August 2022 - Number Fifteen, St Annes
Back at the Number Fifteen and it is as busy as ever as we set up on the relatively small stage area. St Annes is having a music festival and we benefited later in the evening as punters went in search of music once the open air park activities had ceased.
After a brief soundcheck Alfie delivered set one which was a mixture of original and cover material all of which went down well. Set two was more of the same and by the end of the night everyone seemed to be up and dancing.
For the first time Alfie managed to play ten original songs across the two sets, playing two songs live for the first time and they were well received.
Number Fifteen is always packed and enthusiastic and Lee the Landlord was Happy to offer us another gig back here on April 8th 2023
Looking forward already to our return.
Paul
After a brief soundcheck Alfie delivered set one which was a mixture of original and cover material all of which went down well. Set two was more of the same and by the end of the night everyone seemed to be up and dancing.
For the first time Alfie managed to play ten original songs across the two sets, playing two songs live for the first time and they were well received.
Number Fifteen is always packed and enthusiastic and Lee the Landlord was Happy to offer us another gig back here on April 8th 2023
Looking forward already to our return.
Paul
13th August 2022 - Red Lion, Longton
Hot and I mean hot, it was definitely a shorts day as Alfie arrived in Longton, just south of Preston, at the Red Lion. Most of the punters were out in the large beer garden as we set up in a reasonably sized stage area. The landlord brought us some fans (although we did bring some of our own ha ha!) which helped the evening stay a little cooler.
Once the first set started interested customers came in and watched the band and gave all songs, including originals, an enthusiastic reception. The first set was a mixture of both as we aired out some more obscure stuff ready for the Colne R&B festival. Dancing started early and continued throughout set two.
Set two was more of the same but finished in more traditional style with some very well known "sing along" numbers.
All in all a great night: the band were hot ..... to be fair everyone was hot and with a relatively short drive home a great finish to a sticky evening .... did I mention it was hot? It would be great to revisit the Red Lion again next year.
Paul
Once the first set started interested customers came in and watched the band and gave all songs, including originals, an enthusiastic reception. The first set was a mixture of both as we aired out some more obscure stuff ready for the Colne R&B festival. Dancing started early and continued throughout set two.
Set two was more of the same but finished in more traditional style with some very well known "sing along" numbers.
All in all a great night: the band were hot ..... to be fair everyone was hot and with a relatively short drive home a great finish to a sticky evening .... did I mention it was hot? It would be great to revisit the Red Lion again next year.
Paul
4TH June 2022 - Arden Arms, Stockport
Quite a trek to Stockport for the "Alfies" but well worth the effort on the Queens Platinum Jubilee Weekend. The Arden Arms has a fantastic "outside" stage area in a large undercover atrium with a full array of patio heaters!
There was a large audience including one fella dressed in a full Union Jack suit and his partner in a matching dress!
With plenty of room on stage, Alfie performed a good mix of original and familiar tunes for the gathered throng. Lots of enthusiastic applause and dancing ensued before it was all wrapped at 11.45 to fit in with local noise laws.
Jeff and Maria the publicans enjoyed the show and are keen to have us back when they next have a spot free.
A quick breakdown and then "The Long Road Home". A great night and definitely something we would love to do again!
Paul
There was a large audience including one fella dressed in a full Union Jack suit and his partner in a matching dress!
With plenty of room on stage, Alfie performed a good mix of original and familiar tunes for the gathered throng. Lots of enthusiastic applause and dancing ensued before it was all wrapped at 11.45 to fit in with local noise laws.
Jeff and Maria the publicans enjoyed the show and are keen to have us back when they next have a spot free.
A quick breakdown and then "The Long Road Home". A great night and definitely something we would love to do again!
Paul
21st May 2022 - THE Bowling Green, Horwich
Back at the Bowling Green in Horwich after around 6 years and the place is transformed! The new stage area is open at the back and front ... weird but fun! It was an easy load into the back of this rather unconventional stage area but very easy for the band for once!
The pub was very lively with people coming and going all evening but the place was always full.
Set one was an unusual mix of three original songs and some not so well know numbers but they all went down well with lots of dancing.
Set two had more familiar cover songs plus two original songs and this went down the better of the sets with an enthusiastic dancey audience.
The night finished off with the usual encore and the Landlady expressing her delight at how the night had gone and saying she was looking to get us back there as soon as a slot opens up!
Great night, great fun as we headed off home just after midnight!
Paul
The pub was very lively with people coming and going all evening but the place was always full.
Set one was an unusual mix of three original songs and some not so well know numbers but they all went down well with lots of dancing.
Set two had more familiar cover songs plus two original songs and this went down the better of the sets with an enthusiastic dancey audience.
The night finished off with the usual encore and the Landlady expressing her delight at how the night had gone and saying she was looking to get us back there as soon as a slot opens up!
Great night, great fun as we headed off home just after midnight!
Paul
30th APRIL 2022 - THE Inn At The Station, Clitheroe
The Ribble Valley Jazz & Blues Festival saw Alfie playing at Inn At The Station in Clitheroe.
The stage area was quite generous but Alfie still opted to play with the smaller PA which worked very well.
A relatively early start of 8pm saw the band playing two forty five minute sets of a more bluesy nature than normal with seven original songs (from 23) thrown in for good measure, those being, Always on My Mind, John Clancy, 16 People, Black Cat, Fist Full of Dollars, Big Time Charlie and Screwed up!
The pub was very very busy and the Landlord had to stop people coming in as they were four deep at the bar. Eventually the pub ran out of on tap beer and lager and had to revert to bottles .... a very successful night for Roger the Landlord who expressed his gratitude to the band for their part in his very profitable evening.
Both sets went down very well with lots of dancing and enthusiastic encouragement from the audience. Lots of people thanked the band personally including one very effusive Polish girl called Wiola who gleefully accepted a free CD!
Roger wanted us finished by 10pm, which was great, but it was nearer ten past by the time we had completed the much called for encore, The Last Time. A relatively quick break down then off into the rather damp Clitheroe evening for the drive home.
A thoroughly enjoyable evening of music for all involved...... and that is why we do it!
Paul
The stage area was quite generous but Alfie still opted to play with the smaller PA which worked very well.
A relatively early start of 8pm saw the band playing two forty five minute sets of a more bluesy nature than normal with seven original songs (from 23) thrown in for good measure, those being, Always on My Mind, John Clancy, 16 People, Black Cat, Fist Full of Dollars, Big Time Charlie and Screwed up!
The pub was very very busy and the Landlord had to stop people coming in as they were four deep at the bar. Eventually the pub ran out of on tap beer and lager and had to revert to bottles .... a very successful night for Roger the Landlord who expressed his gratitude to the band for their part in his very profitable evening.
Both sets went down very well with lots of dancing and enthusiastic encouragement from the audience. Lots of people thanked the band personally including one very effusive Polish girl called Wiola who gleefully accepted a free CD!
Roger wanted us finished by 10pm, which was great, but it was nearer ten past by the time we had completed the much called for encore, The Last Time. A relatively quick break down then off into the rather damp Clitheroe evening for the drive home.
A thoroughly enjoyable evening of music for all involved...... and that is why we do it!
Paul
22nd April 2022 - The Bath, MorEcambe
A rare Friday evening gig in Morecambe and a rather pleasant sunny evening at that. It's a bit of a hike to Morecambe especially when you have to do it almost twice as a dodgy PA Amp meant Paul had to return home to pick up replacement powered speakers .... the joys of being on the road eh?
The Bath quite rightly prides itself on being a Rock and Blues Live Music Bar and the stage area is excellent, with plenty of room to manoeuvre so to speak.
Two one hour sets were required, so Alfie dusted off a few of the old rock and blues numbers to suit, along with half a dozen original songs too!
Both sets were very well received and in particular some of the original numbers. There was plenty of dancing especially in set two and three encores were required. One young gentleman from Ukraine bought all the band a drink and delivered it to the stage .... he enjoyed a hug too and was very effusive about our talents ha ha!
The Landlord and lady were particularly happy with the evening and it looks like Alfie will be returning to Morecambe as soon as a free slot arises.
A late night for Alfie but well worth it!
Paul
The Bath quite rightly prides itself on being a Rock and Blues Live Music Bar and the stage area is excellent, with plenty of room to manoeuvre so to speak.
Two one hour sets were required, so Alfie dusted off a few of the old rock and blues numbers to suit, along with half a dozen original songs too!
Both sets were very well received and in particular some of the original numbers. There was plenty of dancing especially in set two and three encores were required. One young gentleman from Ukraine bought all the band a drink and delivered it to the stage .... he enjoyed a hug too and was very effusive about our talents ha ha!
The Landlord and lady were particularly happy with the evening and it looks like Alfie will be returning to Morecambe as soon as a free slot arises.
A late night for Alfie but well worth it!
Paul
12th March 2022 - Number Fifteen, St Annes on Sea
Paul's Home gig at "Fifteens" in St Annes turned out to be a fantastic night for all involved!
The venue was packed from start to finish and the audience was enthusiastic and lively throughout, dancing from the first note to the last!
Alfie played a first set of originals and some old favourites and all went down with the audience equally well.
The second set was even more 'dancey" than the first and had the place rockin'!
The pub has a set of "interesting" and incredibly friendly locals and that was supplemented by several others who had come specifically to see the band. A couple of the locals wanted to "have a go" on the drums and guitar, this was politely declined as we were concerned they would have been better than the Band!
All in all an excellent night, the only slight downside being a couple of us caught Covid, that's what being up close and personal can get you ha ha!
This was the first time at "Fifteens" for Alfie and we can't wait to get back there and rocking in August!
Paul
The venue was packed from start to finish and the audience was enthusiastic and lively throughout, dancing from the first note to the last!
Alfie played a first set of originals and some old favourites and all went down with the audience equally well.
The second set was even more 'dancey" than the first and had the place rockin'!
The pub has a set of "interesting" and incredibly friendly locals and that was supplemented by several others who had come specifically to see the band. A couple of the locals wanted to "have a go" on the drums and guitar, this was politely declined as we were concerned they would have been better than the Band!
All in all an excellent night, the only slight downside being a couple of us caught Covid, that's what being up close and personal can get you ha ha!
This was the first time at "Fifteens" for Alfie and we can't wait to get back there and rocking in August!
Paul
26TH February 2022 - THE WHEATSHEAF, PRESTON
Well, four Months later and our first gig in 2o22 sees us back where we left 2021!
No technical issues tonight, but a few alternative arrangements to some songs added a frisson of excitement to the evening, certainly for the band.
Set one was a good mixture of old classics and four original songs all of which were well received.
Set two was more "dancey" with two originals added to the other classics all of which got the audience engaged.
A generally uneventful evening but it's great to get rather belatedly back in the saddle in 2022. looking forward as always to a return to the Wheatsheaf, which is effectively our "home" gig these days!
Paul
No technical issues tonight, but a few alternative arrangements to some songs added a frisson of excitement to the evening, certainly for the band.
Set one was a good mixture of old classics and four original songs all of which were well received.
Set two was more "dancey" with two originals added to the other classics all of which got the audience engaged.
A generally uneventful evening but it's great to get rather belatedly back in the saddle in 2022. looking forward as always to a return to the Wheatsheaf, which is effectively our "home" gig these days!
Paul
9th October 2021 - The Wheatsheaf, Preston
Two nights on the trot is always a difficult ask but Alfie always like a challenge. Another challenge tonight was an England game which interrupted set up and sound checking.
After a few electrical interferences we eventually got going and delivered set one which again included three original songs, the whole set went down well with the rather well attended pub!
Set two was much the same with us dropping a couple of songs (including one original) due to the Landlord wanting us finished at a rather early 11.15. A brief intermittent fault with Paul's equipment made things a little more interesting but the rest of the night went down well.
Another swift break down then off into a rather dreary, damp Preston night ..... still great to be back gigging though!
Paul
After a few electrical interferences we eventually got going and delivered set one which again included three original songs, the whole set went down well with the rather well attended pub!
Set two was much the same with us dropping a couple of songs (including one original) due to the Landlord wanting us finished at a rather early 11.15. A brief intermittent fault with Paul's equipment made things a little more interesting but the rest of the night went down well.
Another swift break down then off into a rather dreary, damp Preston night ..... still great to be back gigging though!
Paul
8th October 2021 - Royal Oak, Preston
Back up to full strength, We headed to Fleetwood for a "blast" in the Royal Oak. The usual eclectic mix of punters made for an interesting and varied night.
Set one saw us introduce three songs from their new album as well as the usual well know covers. All songs went down well with generous applause after each.
Set two and two more originals were played and dancing ensued as usual. One young lady punter with an ancient and thankfully deaf jack Russel kept asking to sing with the Band, which Tony asked her to do by singing along with us ..... her voice was VERY loud .... she then lay on the floor in the room next door .... did I mention how eclectic the punters were here in "Dead Un's"!
We finished with a couple of encores just before twelve and then after a swift break down headed off into a rather pleasant October night. It's great to be back in the game, it really is!
Paul
Set one saw us introduce three songs from their new album as well as the usual well know covers. All songs went down well with generous applause after each.
Set two and two more originals were played and dancing ensued as usual. One young lady punter with an ancient and thankfully deaf jack Russel kept asking to sing with the Band, which Tony asked her to do by singing along with us ..... her voice was VERY loud .... she then lay on the floor in the room next door .... did I mention how eclectic the punters were here in "Dead Un's"!
We finished with a couple of encores just before twelve and then after a swift break down headed off into a rather pleasant October night. It's great to be back in the game, it really is!
Paul
25th September 2021 - Vinyl Tap, Preston
Eighteen Month's after our last gig and we return to the same venue for a memorial gig for Wayne a friend of the Band. Ann, Wayne's partner, did a fantastic job in organising the evening which had had a couple of "pandemic" false starts.
Alfie were booked to play an hour and a half or so of up tempo music to blow away those post pandemic blues and then we hit a bump ...... Tracy, Tony the singers partner contracted Covid and he had to very reluctantly withdraw from the gig!
Alfie always want to keep the show on the road so up stepped Cookie to perform the lead vocal role.
We played a single ninety minute or so set including two originals and all went down enthusiastically with lots of dancing.
This was a wonderful evening for a wonderful Guy! This is to be an annual event and we cannot wait for next year's!
Paul
Alfie were booked to play an hour and a half or so of up tempo music to blow away those post pandemic blues and then we hit a bump ...... Tracy, Tony the singers partner contracted Covid and he had to very reluctantly withdraw from the gig!
Alfie always want to keep the show on the road so up stepped Cookie to perform the lead vocal role.
We played a single ninety minute or so set including two originals and all went down enthusiastically with lots of dancing.
This was a wonderful evening for a wonderful Guy! This is to be an annual event and we cannot wait for next year's!
Paul
14th March 2020 - Vinyl Tap, Preston
Crazy "Covid19" times in the big wide world meant it was great to be back to the relative calm and coziness of Vinyl Tap in Preston.
Despite the doom and gloom, the turn out was excellent, to the point where the venue donated some additional funds to the band due to great bar takings.
Alfie played a far more blues / rock orientated pair of sets, giving a 'run out' to songs that we had not played live in a good while. Lots of Alfie friends were in attendance as we rocked out to old favourites like Fire and Water and Teeny Bit.
Everything seemed to be getting a good reception so we only had a short break before set two and more old school classics were delivered which encouraged lots of dancing and two encores.
A much better night than had been anticipated (due to 'KungFlu') which ultimately saw lots of close personal contact for the virus that is 'Rock n' Roll'... oh yeah!
See you in......
Paul
Despite the doom and gloom, the turn out was excellent, to the point where the venue donated some additional funds to the band due to great bar takings.
Alfie played a far more blues / rock orientated pair of sets, giving a 'run out' to songs that we had not played live in a good while. Lots of Alfie friends were in attendance as we rocked out to old favourites like Fire and Water and Teeny Bit.
Everything seemed to be getting a good reception so we only had a short break before set two and more old school classics were delivered which encouraged lots of dancing and two encores.
A much better night than had been anticipated (due to 'KungFlu') which ultimately saw lots of close personal contact for the virus that is 'Rock n' Roll'... oh yeah!
See you in......
Paul
8th February 2020 - The Royal Oak, Fleetwood
"As Storm Ciara battered Fleetwood, Alfie battered the good folks in Dead Un's with some good old fashioned Rock n' Roll" would have been the headline had the local newspaper covered this gig ... which they didn't but heyho!
It was great to be back at The Royal Oak, seeing old friends and making some new ones like Michelle the teacher and Ronnie the Punk.
Alfie played slightly revised sets with a more dancy Soul feel this evening as that is what the Landlady likes and that is what we gave her and the fairly busy pub. The people of Fleetwood are clearly more resiliantly stoic than most as the weather outside was atrocious; wet and windy really didn't cover it.
Lots of dancing during both sets was supplemented with lots of vocal encouragement and whistles. Two encores were delivered before a quick breakdown and a very soggy load in before the trip home.
Driving down Blackpool Promenade on the way home through gale force winds merely added to the slightly surreal feeling this night afforded. Wonderful!
Paul
It was great to be back at The Royal Oak, seeing old friends and making some new ones like Michelle the teacher and Ronnie the Punk.
Alfie played slightly revised sets with a more dancy Soul feel this evening as that is what the Landlady likes and that is what we gave her and the fairly busy pub. The people of Fleetwood are clearly more resiliantly stoic than most as the weather outside was atrocious; wet and windy really didn't cover it.
Lots of dancing during both sets was supplemented with lots of vocal encouragement and whistles. Two encores were delivered before a quick breakdown and a very soggy load in before the trip home.
Driving down Blackpool Promenade on the way home through gale force winds merely added to the slightly surreal feeling this night afforded. Wonderful!
Paul
9th November 2019 - The Wheatsheaf, Preston
Here we are again at The Wheatsheaf in Preston, familiar faces in familiar places and it's great to be back.
Alfie did what they do best, delivering a rocked up version of up tempo 60s and 70s songs in set one and repeated the successful formula in set two.
Ian debuted his new Bass rig which sounded great and helped get the place rockin'. Lots of dancing and an enthusiatic audience ensured a rip roaring version of Crossroads for an encore.
The nights are drawing in and it was cold and damp outside, but hot and rocking inside!
Paul
Alfie did what they do best, delivering a rocked up version of up tempo 60s and 70s songs in set one and repeated the successful formula in set two.
Ian debuted his new Bass rig which sounded great and helped get the place rockin'. Lots of dancing and an enthusiatic audience ensured a rip roaring version of Crossroads for an encore.
The nights are drawing in and it was cold and damp outside, but hot and rocking inside!
Paul
12th October 2019 - The Old Black Bull, Preston
Always great to be "Back at the Bull" and here we are again on a fine Autumn evening.
The pub was busy and so it stayed for the duration of the gig.
Alfie strayed from their usual sets to include four Cream songs as a tribute to the late Ginger baker .... and they all went down very well.
Lots of encouragement from an attentive audience made the first set a pleasure to play and so it continued into the second set.
In the interval we were approached by a very nice young lady who follows Alfie on FaceBook, Pam, who later sent us a message after the gig which read, "Finally got to see you guys and loved every minute of your set. Even though I follow you I didn’t see any notifications re you playing last night. Pure chance fortunately." Thanks Pam, we will make sure we get notifications out before gigs and hope to see you again soon!
About half way through set two we noticed a sizeable crowd gathering for a photo to be taken by a guy teetering on a bar stool. I scuttled off stage to join in photo .... everyone needs a guitarist on a Birthday photograph don't they? The guy turned out to be Lokesh Mistry and it was his 50th Birthday. Naturally we got him up on stage and sang Happy Birthday and made him dance to Mustang Sally. Great fun!
Two encores were required before we finshed around midnight after a very enjoyable blast!
As we were breaking down, one of Lokesh's buddies insisted on singing him Happy Birthday in Indian (Dots not Feathers) and we all agreed it was rather excellent.
Another great night in "The Bull" let's hope we have many more in the future!
Paul
The pub was busy and so it stayed for the duration of the gig.
Alfie strayed from their usual sets to include four Cream songs as a tribute to the late Ginger baker .... and they all went down very well.
Lots of encouragement from an attentive audience made the first set a pleasure to play and so it continued into the second set.
In the interval we were approached by a very nice young lady who follows Alfie on FaceBook, Pam, who later sent us a message after the gig which read, "Finally got to see you guys and loved every minute of your set. Even though I follow you I didn’t see any notifications re you playing last night. Pure chance fortunately." Thanks Pam, we will make sure we get notifications out before gigs and hope to see you again soon!
About half way through set two we noticed a sizeable crowd gathering for a photo to be taken by a guy teetering on a bar stool. I scuttled off stage to join in photo .... everyone needs a guitarist on a Birthday photograph don't they? The guy turned out to be Lokesh Mistry and it was his 50th Birthday. Naturally we got him up on stage and sang Happy Birthday and made him dance to Mustang Sally. Great fun!
Two encores were required before we finshed around midnight after a very enjoyable blast!
As we were breaking down, one of Lokesh's buddies insisted on singing him Happy Birthday in Indian (Dots not Feathers) and we all agreed it was rather excellent.
Another great night in "The Bull" let's hope we have many more in the future!
Paul
7th September 2019 - Royal Oak 'Dead'uns", Fleetwood
Back in Fleetwood and the wonder that is "Dead'uns" and its eclectic clientel.
From a pool playing punk to "Sean" the mad Irishman who wanted to sing "The Fields of Athenry" after telling the Bar staff he was buying the pub ... neither of which happened.
Alfie sneaked a couple of extra of their favourite songs into both sets which was reflected in the numbers dancing but the audience was enthusiastic throughout.
Alfie ended the night with a couple of encores before securing four, yes four, return gigs in 2020.
We love the Royal Oak and at least two of the band thought the night was truly "Snatchtastic" .... see Tony and Cookie for details!
Paul
From a pool playing punk to "Sean" the mad Irishman who wanted to sing "The Fields of Athenry" after telling the Bar staff he was buying the pub ... neither of which happened.
Alfie sneaked a couple of extra of their favourite songs into both sets which was reflected in the numbers dancing but the audience was enthusiastic throughout.
Alfie ended the night with a couple of encores before securing four, yes four, return gigs in 2020.
We love the Royal Oak and at least two of the band thought the night was truly "Snatchtastic" .... see Tony and Cookie for details!
Paul
1st September 2019 - Barristers, Leyland
A Sunday "teatime" gig is an unusual occurence for Alfie but what a great way to spend late afternoon / early evening.
Set up and soundcheck was to the backdrop of the North London derby on TV. Set one started at 6.20 as the final whistle was blown.
Both sets merged into each other with a 10 minute break in between as we had to be finished by 8pm for the pubs FIFA tournament.
After a realtively slow start the audience started to get involved and by the end of the gig "the
house was a rockin' .
Excellent stuff and hopefully we will be back for more in the near future.
Paul
Set up and soundcheck was to the backdrop of the North London derby on TV. Set one started at 6.20 as the final whistle was blown.
Both sets merged into each other with a 10 minute break in between as we had to be finished by 8pm for the pubs FIFA tournament.
After a realtively slow start the audience started to get involved and by the end of the gig "the
house was a rockin' .
Excellent stuff and hopefully we will be back for more in the near future.
Paul
30th August 2019 - Fox Lane Sports Club, Leyland
Mick's 60th Birthday party and he and Tina thought that a 70s theme would be a good idea ... and they were proved right!
The Band were set up and soundcheck by just after 7.30 in a relatively small function room with a resultant relatively small stage.
Given the theme of the night the band made varying degrees of effort to blend in with colourfully bedecked guests. Drummer Ian got 10 out of 10 for his portrayal of a "late" Elvis who had just eaten Roy Orbison!
"Dancey stuff" was the instruction from our hosts and Alfie delivered over both sets. Wrapping up our perfomance just before midnight with three encores. A fantastic night was had by all.
Groovy Baby!!
Paul
The Band were set up and soundcheck by just after 7.30 in a relatively small function room with a resultant relatively small stage.
Given the theme of the night the band made varying degrees of effort to blend in with colourfully bedecked guests. Drummer Ian got 10 out of 10 for his portrayal of a "late" Elvis who had just eaten Roy Orbison!
"Dancey stuff" was the instruction from our hosts and Alfie delivered over both sets. Wrapping up our perfomance just before midnight with three encores. A fantastic night was had by all.
Groovy Baby!!
Paul
26th August 2019 - The Dressers, Colne
The Dressers performance room is upstairs .... very narrow steep stairs, just what you want on a warm August afternoon....having just finished a gig less than an hour ago.
The performance area is in one room with a few chairs around the perimeter but most of the audience enjoy the gig through the large entance doorway or on the TVs via a "sophistomocated" CCTV system.
Alfie's allotted start time was 6pm but after a couple of technical challenges we got going around 6.20pm and played pretty much the same set we had played up the hill.
Both sets were well received and we had a hasty breakdown to make way for the following band. Gear packed in the car and time for some delicious hot chips from the chippy conveniently situated just across the cobbled street.
Great fun to have completed 2 gigs, had your tea and be on your way home before it was fully dark! Rock n' Roll eh?
Paul
The performance area is in one room with a few chairs around the perimeter but most of the audience enjoy the gig through the large entance doorway or on the TVs via a "sophistomocated" CCTV system.
Alfie's allotted start time was 6pm but after a couple of technical challenges we got going around 6.20pm and played pretty much the same set we had played up the hill.
Both sets were well received and we had a hasty breakdown to make way for the following band. Gear packed in the car and time for some delicious hot chips from the chippy conveniently situated just across the cobbled street.
Great fun to have completed 2 gigs, had your tea and be on your way home before it was fully dark! Rock n' Roll eh?
Paul
26th August 2019 - Colne Rugby Club, Colne
Hot and Steamy in a large Marquee at Colne & Nelson Rugby Club was the setting for our first outing as part of the Colne Rhythm & Blues Festival 2019.
The first band having finished early gave us ample time to set up for our 3.30pm start. The "in house" PA did the jobas well as could be expected as we played a first set with a lot more Blues Rock in it than Alfies normal fayre.
The appreciative audience included a Springer Spaniel who enjoyed us so much he rolled around in a lovely damp mud patch in front of the stage. This comes a close second to the dancing Police horses we had at a Preston Avenham Park gig a few years back.
The second set was well received too before a quick break down ready for the 0.8 mile journey down the hill into Colne town centre for our next gig, with only an hour til start time. Paddy McGuire, from the organising committee, said that this was character building ... hmmmm!
Great fun if a little, hot sweaty and anxiety inducing!
Paul
The first band having finished early gave us ample time to set up for our 3.30pm start. The "in house" PA did the jobas well as could be expected as we played a first set with a lot more Blues Rock in it than Alfies normal fayre.
The appreciative audience included a Springer Spaniel who enjoyed us so much he rolled around in a lovely damp mud patch in front of the stage. This comes a close second to the dancing Police horses we had at a Preston Avenham Park gig a few years back.
The second set was well received too before a quick break down ready for the 0.8 mile journey down the hill into Colne town centre for our next gig, with only an hour til start time. Paddy McGuire, from the organising committee, said that this was character building ... hmmmm!
Great fun if a little, hot sweaty and anxiety inducing!
Paul
17th August 2019 - The Big House Blues Bar, Darwen
The Big House Blues Bar in Darwen is a fantastic live music venue with a modern look. The stage area is relatively large and raised which made for the "roomiest" gig we have played in a good while.
We got in really early and after set up and sound check had a chance to run through a couple of new songs. We were going to play our full "Blues" set in preparation for the Colne Blues festival the following week but after discussions with the Manager we decided to leave in a few of the old favourites.
The audience was large and attentive and there were many familiar BJ faces in attendance. The first set went down well as we tried out a new number or two. Set two was more up tempo and there was lots of dancing. The new numbers in this set also went down well.
Two encores saw us finish off the night around 11.45 and it was time to break down and head off into the night for the long drive home.
A fine prestigious venue and one we would love to return to.
Paul
We got in really early and after set up and sound check had a chance to run through a couple of new songs. We were going to play our full "Blues" set in preparation for the Colne Blues festival the following week but after discussions with the Manager we decided to leave in a few of the old favourites.
The audience was large and attentive and there were many familiar BJ faces in attendance. The first set went down well as we tried out a new number or two. Set two was more up tempo and there was lots of dancing. The new numbers in this set also went down well.
Two encores saw us finish off the night around 11.45 and it was time to break down and head off into the night for the long drive home.
A fine prestigious venue and one we would love to return to.
Paul
3rd August 2019 - The Wheatsheaf, Coppull
Another week another Wheatsheaf, this time in Coppull.
Alfie played pretty much the same sets as they had the previous week and got similar positive reactions. The Wheatsheaf in Coppull is a particularly friendly place and that comes across in audience reaction.
There was dancing across both sets and the band had a great time, especially as the 11.30 curfew meant another early finish.
We look forward to returning to Coppull soon.
Paul
Alfie played pretty much the same sets as they had the previous week and got similar positive reactions. The Wheatsheaf in Coppull is a particularly friendly place and that comes across in audience reaction.
There was dancing across both sets and the band had a great time, especially as the 11.30 curfew meant another early finish.
We look forward to returning to Coppull soon.
Paul
27th July 2019 - The Wheatsheaf, Preston
Back in the saddle and on "home" turf after a looooong Summer break and it was business as usual. The pub was its usual busy and bustling self as we set up on the welcome sized stage.
Set one illicited the usual toe tapping and singing along with the odd sporadic outburst of dancing.
Set two picked up the pace and much dancing and hollering ensued. One attractive young lady in particular decided that "thrusting" was the order of the evening and that seemed to meet with universal approval, certainly in some sections of the audience anyway.
A relatively early finish around 11.40, a quick breakdown then off into the dreary wet night. Great fun as usual from a freindly and enthusiastic audience.
Paul
Set one illicited the usual toe tapping and singing along with the odd sporadic outburst of dancing.
Set two picked up the pace and much dancing and hollering ensued. One attractive young lady in particular decided that "thrusting" was the order of the evening and that seemed to meet with universal approval, certainly in some sections of the audience anyway.
A relatively early finish around 11.40, a quick breakdown then off into the dreary wet night. Great fun as usual from a freindly and enthusiastic audience.
Paul
11th May 2019 - Royal Oak 'Dead'uns", Fleetwood
Our first time in Fleetwood and "Dead'uns" AKA The Royal Oak is, despite the name, a lively old place indeed!
Dancing started in the soundcheck and the very enthusiastic, vocal and eclectic audience were with us from the start.
Alfie played the usual up tempo first set which went down really well.
An extended set two went down equally well with dancing and percussion throughout as in the first set. The people here do love live music and showed it.
The most unusual request of the night (and possibly ever) was for "Deliverance" ... dualling banjos. The young lady involved even sang us a banjoesque line to clarify! Unfortunately we were unable to comply having neither dungarees nor a banjo and as a band having too many teeth both individually and collectively ..... plus squealling like a pig we like to save for the encore!
Speaking of which, Alfie did two encores before wrapping things up around midnight.
Great gig, very friendly audience, what's not to like? We are back in September, most excellent!
Paul
Dancing started in the soundcheck and the very enthusiastic, vocal and eclectic audience were with us from the start.
Alfie played the usual up tempo first set which went down really well.
An extended set two went down equally well with dancing and percussion throughout as in the first set. The people here do love live music and showed it.
The most unusual request of the night (and possibly ever) was for "Deliverance" ... dualling banjos. The young lady involved even sang us a banjoesque line to clarify! Unfortunately we were unable to comply having neither dungarees nor a banjo and as a band having too many teeth both individually and collectively ..... plus squealling like a pig we like to save for the encore!
Speaking of which, Alfie did two encores before wrapping things up around midnight.
Great gig, very friendly audience, what's not to like? We are back in September, most excellent!
Paul
6th May 2019 - BimmoFest 2019, Birkers, Southport
Third outing for BimmoFest in fond memory of our wonderfully talented friend Joan Bimson. Yet again Mark and the Extras did a stirling job of organising 10 bands into a running order which pretty much stuck to schedule.
Alfie were on at 5ish following a high powered up tempo set from the Extras. Trying to set up in 10 minutes while the other band breaks down is always a challenge but we managed to be up and ready to rock in relatively short order.
The sound on stage was the usual cacophonic blur where nobody could hear themselves .... but we powered through a 10 song set and an encore, all of which was very well received by a very appreciative audience with a large smattering of "Musos" in it.
Yet again, great fun for a wonderful cause. Lots of nice things said to the band after the set by various other band members and members of the public. Everyone is a winner at this type of gig ..... magic!!
Paul (photo by John McCabe)
Alfie were on at 5ish following a high powered up tempo set from the Extras. Trying to set up in 10 minutes while the other band breaks down is always a challenge but we managed to be up and ready to rock in relatively short order.
The sound on stage was the usual cacophonic blur where nobody could hear themselves .... but we powered through a 10 song set and an encore, all of which was very well received by a very appreciative audience with a large smattering of "Musos" in it.
Yet again, great fun for a wonderful cause. Lots of nice things said to the band after the set by various other band members and members of the public. Everyone is a winner at this type of gig ..... magic!!
Paul (photo by John McCabe)
13th April 2019 - Vinyl Tap, Preston
Quirky is a fair description of Vinyl Tap as a venue. Racks of LPs (vinyl) line the walls and punters select their favoured album and submit it to bar staff to be played.
The musical theme continues to the small stage at one end of the bar where Alfie set up using half of the house PA system.
Snug as it was on the stage the acoustics were not too bad as Alfie belted out their usual first set with a couple of extras included for the "Musos" in the audience. The 50 minute plus offering went down very well with the punters in the, by now busy, pub.
Set two was more of the same but with more extras thrown in including requests from the audience. Lots of dancing and enthusiastic shouting for more from the audience, meant Alfie ended up playing for 1¼ hrs including 3 encores.
After the music had died away, several members of the audience, icluding the Landlord, approached the band and said some wonderfully complimentary things about Alfie. To each of them a heartfelt thanks for helping keep music live and making it thouroughly good fun to deliver!
A fantastic night marred only by Ian losing his favourite pick, but it was still worth it .... wasn't it Ian?
Paul
The musical theme continues to the small stage at one end of the bar where Alfie set up using half of the house PA system.
Snug as it was on the stage the acoustics were not too bad as Alfie belted out their usual first set with a couple of extras included for the "Musos" in the audience. The 50 minute plus offering went down very well with the punters in the, by now busy, pub.
Set two was more of the same but with more extras thrown in including requests from the audience. Lots of dancing and enthusiastic shouting for more from the audience, meant Alfie ended up playing for 1¼ hrs including 3 encores.
After the music had died away, several members of the audience, icluding the Landlord, approached the band and said some wonderfully complimentary things about Alfie. To each of them a heartfelt thanks for helping keep music live and making it thouroughly good fun to deliver!
A fantastic night marred only by Ian losing his favourite pick, but it was still worth it .... wasn't it Ian?
Paul
23rd February 2019 - The Old Black Bull, Preston
Fresh from our Winter break and Alfie return to our favourite "home" venue, The Old Black Bull in Preston.
The pub was busy from the start and everyone was ready to rock from the first song. Lots of dancing and foot tapping ensued and lasted throughout the entire first set as the venue got busier.
The second set was more of the same and with a similar reaction. Two encores were required and by the end of the performance the Band were knackered with a capital F. While the playing was up to snuff our physical match fitness needs some remedial work.
This was one of the best nights we have had at "The Bull", it's always great to play to an enthusiastic, appreciative and engaged audience.... and this was definitely the case here
Hopefully we will be back soon for more of the same in the near future .... oh yeah!
Paul
The pub was busy from the start and everyone was ready to rock from the first song. Lots of dancing and foot tapping ensued and lasted throughout the entire first set as the venue got busier.
The second set was more of the same and with a similar reaction. Two encores were required and by the end of the performance the Band were knackered with a capital F. While the playing was up to snuff our physical match fitness needs some remedial work.
This was one of the best nights we have had at "The Bull", it's always great to play to an enthusiastic, appreciative and engaged audience.... and this was definitely the case here
Hopefully we will be back soon for more of the same in the near future .... oh yeah!
Paul
4th December 2018 - St Anthony's Social Club, Preston
This was Alfie's 4th Spire AGM and it was as eventful as ever.
The Band set up and sound checked just in time for item one of nine on the AGM agenda, then set one ... or set zero depending upon how you look at things.
Alfie burst into life with Riot in Cell Block No 9, the dance floor filled and half way through the first chorus the power cut on stage.
This was triggered by a "noise" meter which when reaching a threshold "kills" the noise .... Alfie in this case being the noise. After much head scratching the bar staff eventually found a key which turned things back on again .... just in time for the buffet of Hot Pot or Butter Pie.
Tony, mindful that we were not playing that loud, wisely secured a mains supply from outside the stage area and off we went with a dance laden first set. The meter did indeed trigger again but due to Tony's forthough on we went. Lots of dancing from the get go with many variations of "the floss" in evidence, some more inventive than others.
A break for the fastest raffle ever, thanks Abbey, then set two was more of the same before with the dance floor full of inventive moves and equally inventive singing. A realatively early finish and an easy breakdown and drive home saw the evening come to a close.
Great fun again and a more enthusiastic audience you would struggle to find .... see you next year everyone!
Paul
The Band set up and sound checked just in time for item one of nine on the AGM agenda, then set one ... or set zero depending upon how you look at things.
Alfie burst into life with Riot in Cell Block No 9, the dance floor filled and half way through the first chorus the power cut on stage.
This was triggered by a "noise" meter which when reaching a threshold "kills" the noise .... Alfie in this case being the noise. After much head scratching the bar staff eventually found a key which turned things back on again .... just in time for the buffet of Hot Pot or Butter Pie.
Tony, mindful that we were not playing that loud, wisely secured a mains supply from outside the stage area and off we went with a dance laden first set. The meter did indeed trigger again but due to Tony's forthough on we went. Lots of dancing from the get go with many variations of "the floss" in evidence, some more inventive than others.
A break for the fastest raffle ever, thanks Abbey, then set two was more of the same before with the dance floor full of inventive moves and equally inventive singing. A realatively early finish and an easy breakdown and drive home saw the evening come to a close.
Great fun again and a more enthusiastic audience you would struggle to find .... see you next year everyone!
Paul
24th November 2018 - The Wheatsheaf, Coppull
Back in Coppull for another Rockin' Night and the usual warm welcome from the Bar staff.
A new guitar rig was in evidence but the sound check hit a couple of problems which delayed the start of set one.
Although delayed, set one was Alfie's usual up tempo affair which got things moving nicely.
Set two was more of the same and saw the appearance of Joanne, the manager, who was on a night off but she joined us during the set to throw some moves on the dance floor.
Another great night in Coppull and hopefully we will return early in the New Year.
Paul
A new guitar rig was in evidence but the sound check hit a couple of problems which delayed the start of set one.
Although delayed, set one was Alfie's usual up tempo affair which got things moving nicely.
Set two was more of the same and saw the appearance of Joanne, the manager, who was on a night off but she joined us during the set to throw some moves on the dance floor.
Another great night in Coppull and hopefully we will return early in the New Year.
Paul
27th October 2018 - The Black Bull, Preston
Gig number 150 for Alfie and we are back "home" at the newly refurbished Black Bull in Preston.
A Halloween theme dominated the evening and the guys got dressed up appropriately and the stage was adorned with various spooky stuff which didn't get in the way of the performers ... honest!
Set one was the usual up tempo affair and from song one we had dancing with one enthusiastic tambourine player joining us "on stage".
The "rythmn section" left after one song but the dancers remained for the remainder of a raucous and enthusiastic first set.
Set two was more of the same, greeted with similar enthusiasm before a double encore closed the evening which was a "spooktacular" success.
After a relatively quick breakdown we headed off into the night wondering how on earth we were going to get "all this shite off wa faces"!
Happy days indeed.
Paul
A Halloween theme dominated the evening and the guys got dressed up appropriately and the stage was adorned with various spooky stuff which didn't get in the way of the performers ... honest!
Set one was the usual up tempo affair and from song one we had dancing with one enthusiastic tambourine player joining us "on stage".
The "rythmn section" left after one song but the dancers remained for the remainder of a raucous and enthusiastic first set.
Set two was more of the same, greeted with similar enthusiasm before a double encore closed the evening which was a "spooktacular" success.
After a relatively quick breakdown we headed off into the night wondering how on earth we were going to get "all this shite off wa faces"!
Happy days indeed.
Paul
29th September 2018 - The Wheatsheaf, Preston
It was great to be back at the Wheatsheaf for another night of good old Rock n' Roll.
The pub was as busy as always and it was the usual rushed set up after the footy had finished.
Sound check completed and after 20mins or so Alfie started with their usual "Town Centre" pub set one which went down very well with plenty of toe tapping and dancing.
After a 40 minute break it was a "Rockin'" set two which got people up on their feet again dancing and singing along with old familiar tunes. Time constraints meant Alfie could only do one encore, despite calls for "More"!
Another great night at the Wheatsheaf and I am sure there will be many more.
Paul
The pub was as busy as always and it was the usual rushed set up after the footy had finished.
Sound check completed and after 20mins or so Alfie started with their usual "Town Centre" pub set one which went down very well with plenty of toe tapping and dancing.
After a 40 minute break it was a "Rockin'" set two which got people up on their feet again dancing and singing along with old familiar tunes. Time constraints meant Alfie could only do one encore, despite calls for "More"!
Another great night at the Wheatsheaf and I am sure there will be many more.
Paul
1st September 2018 - Balcarres Arms, Haig, Wigan
It has been a while since Alfie played at the Balcarres, in the mean time the Landlord Neil has left and returned again and we are the third band to appear there since his return. Neil only has bands on once a Month.
The Balcarres is a very friendly pub with a great atmosphere. The clientele are many and varied and sure know how to enjoy themselves.
Alfie played their usual set one which went down a storm with plenty of dancing and handclapping. A young(ish) gentleman, henceforth known as "Balcarres Bez" (think dad dancing meets epileptic fit), was throwing some very enthusiastic moves and was keen to hug Tony and generally congratulate the Band personally between songs.... great stuff!
The second set saw "BB" get into full giratory mode along with others, one young(ish) lady dancing 70s style with bare feet. Plenty of action, excitement and superb fun to be involved in.
Two encores were required before Alfie brought the evening to a conclusion around 11.45.
A fabulous gig and we look forward to returning early in the New Year.
Paul
The Balcarres is a very friendly pub with a great atmosphere. The clientele are many and varied and sure know how to enjoy themselves.
Alfie played their usual set one which went down a storm with plenty of dancing and handclapping. A young(ish) gentleman, henceforth known as "Balcarres Bez" (think dad dancing meets epileptic fit), was throwing some very enthusiastic moves and was keen to hug Tony and generally congratulate the Band personally between songs.... great stuff!
The second set saw "BB" get into full giratory mode along with others, one young(ish) lady dancing 70s style with bare feet. Plenty of action, excitement and superb fun to be involved in.
Two encores were required before Alfie brought the evening to a conclusion around 11.45.
A fabulous gig and we look forward to returning early in the New Year.
Paul
25th August 2018 - The Hop, Blackpool
A rare Blackpool gig for Alfie at The Hop in the town centre. A large stage area with plenty of room was a bonus in the recently refurbished venue.
A large contingent of Alfie friends and family turned up to make a more intimate atmosphere.
Alfie played their usual town centre set one which went down well with punters dancing from the off.
Set two was more up tempo dancy stuff which resulted in, yes, much dancing. The venue has a relatively early finish of around 11.30 which was the second bonus of the evening.
Great stuff and a return gig booked for December 1st, what's not to like?
Paul
A large contingent of Alfie friends and family turned up to make a more intimate atmosphere.
Alfie played their usual town centre set one which went down well with punters dancing from the off.
Set two was more up tempo dancy stuff which resulted in, yes, much dancing. The venue has a relatively early finish of around 11.30 which was the second bonus of the evening.
Great stuff and a return gig booked for December 1st, what's not to like?
Paul
15th August 2018 - Eagle & Child, Whitefield
Whitefield near Manchester boasts two pubs who like their live music and who always draw a large audience of punters who like to see a live band. The Eagle & Child is one of those venues and even on a Wednesday night the place was "heaving" and the atmosphere was fantastic.
Given the "Muso" nature of the audience, Alfie were able to play a more Blues Rock orientated couple of sets. Set one went down very well with several compliments heading the band's way in the interval.
Set two went down equally well with the Band having to deliver two encores to the assembled and enthusiastic throng.
The Landlady, Michelle her wife, her Mother, her Mother's friend and Casper the Staffie were all rocking to Alfie and had a "great night".
Both Whitefield venues operate on a small retainer for the band supplemented by a whipround from the punters. Given the size of our donated bounty everyone did indeed have a great night.
Alfie can't wait to get back to Whitefield, playing to audiences who actually go out to watch the band is extremely rewarding.
Paul
Given the "Muso" nature of the audience, Alfie were able to play a more Blues Rock orientated couple of sets. Set one went down very well with several compliments heading the band's way in the interval.
Set two went down equally well with the Band having to deliver two encores to the assembled and enthusiastic throng.
The Landlady, Michelle her wife, her Mother, her Mother's friend and Casper the Staffie were all rocking to Alfie and had a "great night".
Both Whitefield venues operate on a small retainer for the band supplemented by a whipround from the punters. Given the size of our donated bounty everyone did indeed have a great night.
Alfie can't wait to get back to Whitefield, playing to audiences who actually go out to watch the band is extremely rewarding.
Paul
30th June 2018 - The Talbot Hotel, Burnley
The Talbot in Burnley is a great music venue with a nice sized stage area and a great "Muso" type audience.
The weather outside was blisteringly hot and the World Cup last 16 match between Portugal and Uruguay was in full swing as we set up and sound checked. It was hard not to have one eye on that during set up.
The game was long over, Uruguay winning 2-1, when we started our first set. We opted for a more Blues Rock based first set and it went down very well with people up dancing from the off.
The second set was another Blues Rock up tempo affair with a bit of Soul towards the end. Again the place was jumping with people dancing for the entire set and the extremely enthusiastic audience demanded two encores.
We finished just after midnight and it was a hot sweaty breakdown before hour long drive home. Still it was absolutely worth it, great venue and an outstanding audience, what's not to like :-)
Paul
The weather outside was blisteringly hot and the World Cup last 16 match between Portugal and Uruguay was in full swing as we set up and sound checked. It was hard not to have one eye on that during set up.
The game was long over, Uruguay winning 2-1, when we started our first set. We opted for a more Blues Rock based first set and it went down very well with people up dancing from the off.
The second set was another Blues Rock up tempo affair with a bit of Soul towards the end. Again the place was jumping with people dancing for the entire set and the extremely enthusiastic audience demanded two encores.
We finished just after midnight and it was a hot sweaty breakdown before hour long drive home. Still it was absolutely worth it, great venue and an outstanding audience, what's not to like :-)
Paul
23rd June 2018 - Preston Market, Preston
Well this was an odd one and one in which the Band went "down market" .... well down TO the Market in fact, Preston Market.
The outdoor market in Preston has just had a refurbishment and a jolly fine one it is too. We were asked by the local Council to play four half hour sets between 11am and 3pm to add a bit of extra vibrancy and life to an already bustling part of town.
The Band played a variety of songs from 60s pop to Johnny Winter Blues and all were greeted with enthusiasm by the crowds which stopped to watch or who danced along as they walked by.
It was a nice day but a little chilly under the cover of the market building. The wind started to get up half way through set three and that offered a new challenge for the band as it affected the on stage sound quite markedly.
By the end of the fourth stint the Band were starting to feel the pace a little, but it was a brilliant experience which everyone appeared to enjoy.
If Preston Council want to repeat the event then Alfie will be more than happy to oblige.
Paul
The outdoor market in Preston has just had a refurbishment and a jolly fine one it is too. We were asked by the local Council to play four half hour sets between 11am and 3pm to add a bit of extra vibrancy and life to an already bustling part of town.
The Band played a variety of songs from 60s pop to Johnny Winter Blues and all were greeted with enthusiasm by the crowds which stopped to watch or who danced along as they walked by.
It was a nice day but a little chilly under the cover of the market building. The wind started to get up half way through set three and that offered a new challenge for the band as it affected the on stage sound quite markedly.
By the end of the fourth stint the Band were starting to feel the pace a little, but it was a brilliant experience which everyone appeared to enjoy.
If Preston Council want to repeat the event then Alfie will be more than happy to oblige.
Paul
16th June 2018 - The Old Black Bull, Preston
Back on home turf and Alfie did what they do best, "rocked the place".
The venue was very quiet at set up which allowed the band to do a thorough sound check. The pub started to fill and the usual mixture of up tempo Bluesy Rock soon had the place in lively spirits.
A slight timing oversight meant that the band went on about 15 minutes early for the second set and ended up playing a 17 song "stonker" which the audienc, in a now very full pub, thoroughly enjoyed.
The venue is long overdue a refurbishment and we expect to be in a rejuvenated establishment when we return later in the year.
The whole band thoroughly enjoyed this one, roll on the next.
Paul
The venue was very quiet at set up which allowed the band to do a thorough sound check. The pub started to fill and the usual mixture of up tempo Bluesy Rock soon had the place in lively spirits.
A slight timing oversight meant that the band went on about 15 minutes early for the second set and ended up playing a 17 song "stonker" which the audienc, in a now very full pub, thoroughly enjoyed.
The venue is long overdue a refurbishment and we expect to be in a rejuvenated establishment when we return later in the year.
The whole band thoroughly enjoyed this one, roll on the next.
Paul
7th May 2018 - BimmoFest 2018, Birkers, Birkdale
BimmoFest 2018 a reprise of last year's inaugural event in memory of our wonderful friend and superb musician Joan Bimson.
Alfie were the opening act this year and opted to play just under an hour of up tempo Rock n' Blues which went down very well with the assembled throng many of whom were fellow musicians.
There were seven bands on in total on thei Bank Holiday Monday, all offering their services for free in honour of this worthy cause. A fantastic event and great fun to perform at. Looking forward to next year already.
Paul
Alfie were the opening act this year and opted to play just under an hour of up tempo Rock n' Blues which went down very well with the assembled throng many of whom were fellow musicians.
There were seven bands on in total on thei Bank Holiday Monday, all offering their services for free in honour of this worthy cause. A fantastic event and great fun to perform at. Looking forward to next year already.
Paul
14th April 2018 - The Wheatsheaf, Preston
Busy busy busy and noisy noisy noisy in the Wheatsheaf and did I mention hot hot hot! A second helping of football which kicked off at 7.30 meant we had to set up crouching beneath the"big screen" and do a very brief soundcheck at half time... rock n' roll eh?
Tonight was a City Centre pub "Rocky Night" and set one reflected that going down very well indeed.
Set two was more of the same and that got the good folks of Preston up and a'dancing as we rocked the night into a relatively early finish of 11.30.
Yet more great fun was had at the Wheatsheaf and as we are back in September ... we can't wait! :-)
Paul
Tonight was a City Centre pub "Rocky Night" and set one reflected that going down very well indeed.
Set two was more of the same and that got the good folks of Preston up and a'dancing as we rocked the night into a relatively early finish of 11.30.
Yet more great fun was had at the Wheatsheaf and as we are back in September ... we can't wait! :-)
Paul
31st March 2018 - The Wheatsheaf, Coppull
Coppull and at The Wheatsheaf for the first time in just over a year and it's great to be back. A little late in getting set up (due to football) meant no lights but the band are bright enough to light up any stage .... someone said once ... but probably not about Alfie!
The first set went down well in the busy venue and we finished just in time for Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker to be ready to "kick off" their World title unification fight. To be fair, the Band were booked before the fight was announced so fair play to the Landlady for choosing us over the TV.... Keep Music Live!
It was time for set two and we played over the top of the boxing with some punters stood with their backs to us watching the big screen at the end of the bar .... they were still tapping their feet though :-) A slightly shorter second set was played in rather bizzarre circumstances which we finished with a second encore just as Joshua was pronounced points winner on the telly.
Weird and wonderful night but fun all the same. The large BJs contingent who came to see the Band really made a difference, so a big thanks to those guys!
Paul
The first set went down well in the busy venue and we finished just in time for Anthony Joshua and Joseph Parker to be ready to "kick off" their World title unification fight. To be fair, the Band were booked before the fight was announced so fair play to the Landlady for choosing us over the TV.... Keep Music Live!
It was time for set two and we played over the top of the boxing with some punters stood with their backs to us watching the big screen at the end of the bar .... they were still tapping their feet though :-) A slightly shorter second set was played in rather bizzarre circumstances which we finished with a second encore just as Joshua was pronounced points winner on the telly.
Weird and wonderful night but fun all the same. The large BJs contingent who came to see the Band really made a difference, so a big thanks to those guys!
Paul
10thMarch 2018 - Mad Hatters (Ale Emporium), Preston
Mad Hatters was previously called the Ale Emporium but Alan, the Landlord, decided a change of name would help spruce the place up and who are we to argue.
It was great to be back on the roomy stage, it was also great to be able to play more of our "rock stuff" after two party gigs on the trot!
The first set allowed us to play some Cream and Free as well as the usual Beatles, Bowie and Who ... all of which went down well.
A couple of Blues Rock numbers in the second set made way for the more "dancey stuff" before an encore of Hard to Handle and ... Crossroads.
A great night in a great venue with a canny Landlord .... great stuff! :-)
Paul
It was great to be back on the roomy stage, it was also great to be able to play more of our "rock stuff" after two party gigs on the trot!
The first set allowed us to play some Cream and Free as well as the usual Beatles, Bowie and Who ... all of which went down well.
A couple of Blues Rock numbers in the second set made way for the more "dancey stuff" before an encore of Hard to Handle and ... Crossroads.
A great night in a great venue with a canny Landlord .... great stuff! :-)
Paul
3rd March 2018 - Our Lady's Parish Centre, St Annes
Victoria's 21st Birthday party at one of our favourite venues, St Annes Parish centre which has a huge stage with plenty of room for the band to actually move without invading each other's personal space ... again!
Victoria is a Band family member so it was special to be able to act as "the disco" and play the dance music for a good sized appreciative and mobile audience.
A hotpot buffet preceeded the short first set to get everyone warmed up inside and out. After a short break and the cutting of the Bithday cake, Alfie played an hour or so of up tempo sixtiesish dancing music which had everyone strutting their respective stuff.
Alfie closed with a couple of encores and everyone headed off into the night with smiles on their faces, particularly Victoria, who after all was the most important person that night as it was her party!
Another great night and great fun for all concerned.
Paul
Victoria is a Band family member so it was special to be able to act as "the disco" and play the dance music for a good sized appreciative and mobile audience.
A hotpot buffet preceeded the short first set to get everyone warmed up inside and out. After a short break and the cutting of the Bithday cake, Alfie played an hour or so of up tempo sixtiesish dancing music which had everyone strutting their respective stuff.
Alfie closed with a couple of encores and everyone headed off into the night with smiles on their faces, particularly Victoria, who after all was the most important person that night as it was her party!
Another great night and great fun for all concerned.
Paul
24th February 2018 - Norbreck Tennis Club, Blackpool
Alfie playing at another 60th Birthday Party, is it us or our choice of music? .... "both" I am told is the answer.
This event was a surprise (and it certainly was judging by the look on her face when she walked in) party for Judy Hearty, the wife of a good friend of the band, Brian.
Due to poular demand the buffet was consumed fprior to Alfie performing their first set of good old party up tempo "dancey" songs. The highlight of that first set was the final song where Brian took over Bass duties for Alfie's first ever rendtion of Summer of 69. Note perfect and looking like the consumate Pro Brian took his first time playing in public totally in his stride ... although Ian (Alfies Bassist) did remark on how sweaty his bass seemed when it was handed back afterwards haha!
A short break and Alfie rounded off the evening with up tempo numbers which had the club rockin. A great night was had by all, even the Club Committee members, who asked Alfie for a business card with a view to booking Alfie for a future gig! Win win all round eh?
A great night and thanks to Brian and Judy for the opportunity to actually play in Blackpool for the first time in a while!
Paul
This event was a surprise (and it certainly was judging by the look on her face when she walked in) party for Judy Hearty, the wife of a good friend of the band, Brian.
Due to poular demand the buffet was consumed fprior to Alfie performing their first set of good old party up tempo "dancey" songs. The highlight of that first set was the final song where Brian took over Bass duties for Alfie's first ever rendtion of Summer of 69. Note perfect and looking like the consumate Pro Brian took his first time playing in public totally in his stride ... although Ian (Alfies Bassist) did remark on how sweaty his bass seemed when it was handed back afterwards haha!
A short break and Alfie rounded off the evening with up tempo numbers which had the club rockin. A great night was had by all, even the Club Committee members, who asked Alfie for a business card with a view to booking Alfie for a future gig! Win win all round eh?
A great night and thanks to Brian and Judy for the opportunity to actually play in Blackpool for the first time in a while!
Paul
17th February 2018 - The Old Black Bull, Preston
Alfie were back and gigging for the first time in 2018 after our short winter break and back on "home turf" at The Old Black Bull in Preston.
A great crowd and a superb atmosphere ensured an excellent rock and blues first set went down very well with the assembled throng.
Set two was a more "dancey" affair which had the "joint rockin'" with all songs going down very well with the punters. It was great to see many familiar faces in the audience. Your support is much appreciated.
It's great to be back in The Bull and we will be returning later in the year .... most excellent!
Paul
A great crowd and a superb atmosphere ensured an excellent rock and blues first set went down very well with the assembled throng.
Set two was a more "dancey" affair which had the "joint rockin'" with all songs going down very well with the punters. It was great to see many familiar faces in the audience. Your support is much appreciated.
It's great to be back in The Bull and we will be returning later in the year .... most excellent!
Paul
29th December 2017 - Walton Arms, Bamber Bridge
Carole's 60th and most excellent Birthday party saw Alfiie play a 2-1-1 formation due to the worlds thinnest stage at the Walton Arms in Bamber Bridge. This was sweet revenge for Guitar and Bass with a wonderful opportunity to let Ian (drums) know what LOUD really is!
The rather odd band set up, a little reminiscent of the Dave Clark Five, was good fun but made the usual eye contact cues between band members a little challenging....and Tony's new lights while really excellent are also really BRIGHT! (which is their point many would say:-))
The first, pre-buffet, set was all up tempo familiar songs which went down well despite the rumbling stomachs (good name for a band?). The tempo of the songs rose distinctly as the whiff of food drove the band on to the ultimate gourmet goal!
Set two was similar fayre with more up tempo familiar songs to sing along too and "get down" and boogie too! Note to self, stuffing your face between sets and the resultant indigestion do not make good bedfellows for an easy second set performance :-)
The band decided to try Crossroads as a much called for encore, this was followed by two Free numbers by popular audience demand. An excellent night, so thanks Carole for giving us the opportunity to "rock out" to a mainly Muso audiance.... and Happy 60th Birthday!
Paul
The rather odd band set up, a little reminiscent of the Dave Clark Five, was good fun but made the usual eye contact cues between band members a little challenging....and Tony's new lights while really excellent are also really BRIGHT! (which is their point many would say:-))
The first, pre-buffet, set was all up tempo familiar songs which went down well despite the rumbling stomachs (good name for a band?). The tempo of the songs rose distinctly as the whiff of food drove the band on to the ultimate gourmet goal!
Set two was similar fayre with more up tempo familiar songs to sing along too and "get down" and boogie too! Note to self, stuffing your face between sets and the resultant indigestion do not make good bedfellows for an easy second set performance :-)
The band decided to try Crossroads as a much called for encore, this was followed by two Free numbers by popular audience demand. An excellent night, so thanks Carole for giving us the opportunity to "rock out" to a mainly Muso audiance.... and Happy 60th Birthday!
Paul
14th December 2017 - St Anthony's Social Centre, Preston
Once again, Alfie had the great pleasure of playing at the Spire AGM. Spire provide special services for adults with "challenges" living in the community who also happen to be the best audience ever!
Alfie played a single hour long set straight after the buffet, and it was all up tempo dancing stuff which had the desired effect.
Everyone was having a good time with lots of very loud singing which put the band to shame!
All wrapped up and off into a rather wet Winter's night and Paul had a flat tyre and was forced to accept a lift home from "The Drummer", which turned out to be up tempo like the set had been.
Great night and I am sure we will be there next year!
Paul
Alfie played a single hour long set straight after the buffet, and it was all up tempo dancing stuff which had the desired effect.
Everyone was having a good time with lots of very loud singing which put the band to shame!
All wrapped up and off into a rather wet Winter's night and Paul had a flat tyre and was forced to accept a lift home from "The Drummer", which turned out to be up tempo like the set had been.
Great night and I am sure we will be there next year!
Paul
1st December 2017 - Samlesbury Hall, Salmesbury
Wowsa! This was Alfie's most impressive venue thus far! Samlesbury Hall was built in 1325 (almost half past one) and has a minstrel gallery in the Great Hall where we were playing.... imagine some medieval musician rocking a crumhorn solo almost 800 years ago... and now it's our turn to do the "rockin'" ... Wowsa again!
The "Do" was our friend Lizz's retirement party and 150 of her friends had gathered to help her celebrate. The hall was a fair size but surprisingly the acoustics were absolutely fine, especially when it was full of ready and willing dancers!
Having said the usual, but heartfelt, thank you's, Lizz started musical proceedings by giving her surprised freinds a rather splendid rendition of "Stormy Monday" backed by the Alfie Band!
Having nailed the first number, Alfie then did around two hours of wall to wall popular Rock dance tunes, which had the place "a movin' and a groovin"" in splendid fashion.
Things had to be wrapped up just before midnight as "Carriages" (taxis to us simple folk) were at 12.30!
An absolutely excellent night in a spectacular setting, I am sure our musicisn forebears would have approved!
Paul
The "Do" was our friend Lizz's retirement party and 150 of her friends had gathered to help her celebrate. The hall was a fair size but surprisingly the acoustics were absolutely fine, especially when it was full of ready and willing dancers!
Having said the usual, but heartfelt, thank you's, Lizz started musical proceedings by giving her surprised freinds a rather splendid rendition of "Stormy Monday" backed by the Alfie Band!
Having nailed the first number, Alfie then did around two hours of wall to wall popular Rock dance tunes, which had the place "a movin' and a groovin"" in splendid fashion.
Things had to be wrapped up just before midnight as "Carriages" (taxis to us simple folk) were at 12.30!
An absolutely excellent night in a spectacular setting, I am sure our musicisn forebears would have approved!
Paul
Lizz Rocks Stormy Monday
Samlesbury Geat Hall, Alfie's most impressive venue to date!
11th November 2017 - The Wellington, Ashton, Preston
Back again at "The Welly" and the bijou, some would say intimate, "stage" that bonds the performer with their audience. Mark, the Landlord, and his team made us welcome as usual.
A good size audience was in fine "fettle" as were several of our regular friends who came to support the band, thanks guys!
Both sets were the regular Town Centre pub sets which always go down well as they did again on this occasion.
Another uneventful but great fun night in the life of Alfie Ibbotson's Popular Beat Combo .... what's not to like? :-)
Paul
A good size audience was in fine "fettle" as were several of our regular friends who came to support the band, thanks guys!
Both sets were the regular Town Centre pub sets which always go down well as they did again on this occasion.
Another uneventful but great fun night in the life of Alfie Ibbotson's Popular Beat Combo .... what's not to like? :-)
Paul
4th November 2017 - Ale Emporium, Preston
Here we go again, back at the Ale Emporium, one of Alfie's favourite venues. Alan (Ex The Wellington) is the manager here now and a warm welcome was received by the Band.
The Ale Emporium has a great stage area and it makes a nice change for the Band to have room to manoeuvre.
The usual mix of classic rock and up tempo numbers made up the fisrt set which went down well with a fair sized audience.
Set two was more "dancey" and had the "punters" strutting their stuff in usual fashion.
A relatively early finish just afetr 11.30, a swift break down and Alfie headed off into the drizzly Autumn night. Another great night at the Ale Emporium where Alan has big plans for the future and, apparently, Alfie are included in those plans, result! :-)
Paul
The Ale Emporium has a great stage area and it makes a nice change for the Band to have room to manoeuvre.
The usual mix of classic rock and up tempo numbers made up the fisrt set which went down well with a fair sized audience.
Set two was more "dancey" and had the "punters" strutting their stuff in usual fashion.
A relatively early finish just afetr 11.30, a swift break down and Alfie headed off into the drizzly Autumn night. Another great night at the Ale Emporium where Alan has big plans for the future and, apparently, Alfie are included in those plans, result! :-)
Paul
8th October 2017 - Birkers, Southport - Bimmo Fest
Birkers in Birkdale for Bimmo Fest. Nine bands coming together in memory of their wonderful friend and fellow musician, Joan Bimson, all in aid of "Cancer Awareness Research and Treatment".
Alfie were 7th in the running order to start at 7pm but due to a set of unfortunate circumstances Ian "drums" was not due to arrive at Birkdale station (fortunately adjacent to the venue) until 7.04 ... hence frantic set up mayhem ensued and problems with the PA meant we didn't actually start until after 7.30.
Given this was very much an up tempo event, Alfie did a bit of set juggling and played a "45" of up tempo material which went down very well with the assembled throng. Always difficult to pick the right songs for a "Muso infested" gig, and as two of our favourites had already been covered by earlier bands, we just "stuck a finger in the air" and hoped for the best!
We were all wrapped up and ready for home by 8.45, with the second last act "No Name the Band" playing some 60's classics we headed off into the night.
This was great fun for a very worthy cause, I am absolutely sure Joan would have approved. :-)
Paul
Alfie were 7th in the running order to start at 7pm but due to a set of unfortunate circumstances Ian "drums" was not due to arrive at Birkdale station (fortunately adjacent to the venue) until 7.04 ... hence frantic set up mayhem ensued and problems with the PA meant we didn't actually start until after 7.30.
Given this was very much an up tempo event, Alfie did a bit of set juggling and played a "45" of up tempo material which went down very well with the assembled throng. Always difficult to pick the right songs for a "Muso infested" gig, and as two of our favourites had already been covered by earlier bands, we just "stuck a finger in the air" and hoped for the best!
We were all wrapped up and ready for home by 8.45, with the second last act "No Name the Band" playing some 60's classics we headed off into the night.
This was great fun for a very worthy cause, I am absolutely sure Joan would have approved. :-)
Paul
30th September 2017 - The Belgrave, Darwen
A damp and wet night in Darwen, but a very busy, hot and sweaty reception in The Belgrave.
An odd shaped playing area but not too bad for room certainly on "Cookie's" side of the stage. The "usual" first set went down really well with several audience members commenting as such in the break.
Set two was again the "usual" up tempo feast eagerly devoured by the audience. A relatively early wrap up at 11.30 and an equally quick break down.
One of the more interesting events of the night was a particularly drunk "young" lady trying to get into one of the Band's cars when it was being packed. She was told "you don't want to do that love or you will end up in Blackpool", "great" she said before she was led away to call a taxi....only in Darwen eh?
Great gig and one we hope to repeat in the near future.
Paul
An odd shaped playing area but not too bad for room certainly on "Cookie's" side of the stage. The "usual" first set went down really well with several audience members commenting as such in the break.
Set two was again the "usual" up tempo feast eagerly devoured by the audience. A relatively early wrap up at 11.30 and an equally quick break down.
One of the more interesting events of the night was a particularly drunk "young" lady trying to get into one of the Band's cars when it was being packed. She was told "you don't want to do that love or you will end up in Blackpool", "great" she said before she was led away to call a taxi....only in Darwen eh?
Great gig and one we hope to repeat in the near future.
Paul
12th August 2017 - The Wheatsheaf, Preston
Alfie were back at The Wheatsheaf for the first time in a very long while and it was great. The pub was packed to the rafters on a warm Summers evening and the mood was good.
A 9.15 Kick Off for the band was a bit of a challenge due to a late set up following the televised football, but this was balanced with arelatively early finish time of 11.30.
The first set was a good combination of "listening stuff" and "dancing stuff" and not surprisingly dancing appeared under both categories.
The second set went down particularly well, especially with a contingent of visitors from The Netherlands who certainly knew how to enjoy themselves. Alfie introduced "Substitute" into their repertoire for the first time and this went down particularly well. Once again two encores were demanded even as time was running out, the second being Alfie's first attempt at the classic "Crossroads" which had not even been properly rehearsed prior to the gig....living on the edge eh?
A fantastic hot and sweaty night in The Wheatsheaf and hopefully we can repeat it soon when the Manager, Brian, gets back from his holidays.
Unfortunately no photos of the gig were taken, so instead here is the fb entry from one of our friends :-)
Paul
A 9.15 Kick Off for the band was a bit of a challenge due to a late set up following the televised football, but this was balanced with arelatively early finish time of 11.30.
The first set was a good combination of "listening stuff" and "dancing stuff" and not surprisingly dancing appeared under both categories.
The second set went down particularly well, especially with a contingent of visitors from The Netherlands who certainly knew how to enjoy themselves. Alfie introduced "Substitute" into their repertoire for the first time and this went down particularly well. Once again two encores were demanded even as time was running out, the second being Alfie's first attempt at the classic "Crossroads" which had not even been properly rehearsed prior to the gig....living on the edge eh?
A fantastic hot and sweaty night in The Wheatsheaf and hopefully we can repeat it soon when the Manager, Brian, gets back from his holidays.
Unfortunately no photos of the gig were taken, so instead here is the fb entry from one of our friends :-)
Paul
29th July 2017 - Ale Emporium, Preston
After a three Month early Summer lay off it was great to dust off the gigging trousers and return to the Ale Emporium, the venue for Alfie's first ever gig four and a half years ago.
A good crowd assembled and clearly enjoyed the first set. The second set was even more popular and dancing was much in evidence.
Two encores were demanded and after their usual barnstorming "Hard To Handle", Alfie finished the evening on that old North East and Free favourite "The Hunter"
It was great to be back at the Ale Emporium and we are booked to return later in the year. Happy days.
Paul
A good crowd assembled and clearly enjoyed the first set. The second set was even more popular and dancing was much in evidence.
Two encores were demanded and after their usual barnstorming "Hard To Handle", Alfie finished the evening on that old North East and Free favourite "The Hunter"
It was great to be back at the Ale Emporium and we are booked to return later in the year. Happy days.
Paul
29th April 2017 - Hark To Towler, Bury
Hark To Towler is in Tottington just North of Bury and is a great pub with wonderful unique tiled bar. The stage area is compact but at least it is raised....by about four inches.
Tonight was the night that Anthony Joshua was fighting Wladimir Klitschko to be world heavy weight champion and as this was televised in the pub we had an early first set, around 9.15, in which we played a few of the rockier numbers which went down very well. Then we settled in to watch the fight which Joshua won, much to the delight of the pub audience.
The second set kicked off around 11pm and Alfie played their usual "dancey" set which once again went down well with the punters with lots of dancing and "community" singing.
The night was rounded off with a double encore as we finished off around midnight. The Landlord, Ade, was very complimentary and said that several couples had asked him to book us again, so we are looking to find a suitable date for an early return and another great night of live music in Tottington.
Paul
Tonight was the night that Anthony Joshua was fighting Wladimir Klitschko to be world heavy weight champion and as this was televised in the pub we had an early first set, around 9.15, in which we played a few of the rockier numbers which went down very well. Then we settled in to watch the fight which Joshua won, much to the delight of the pub audience.
The second set kicked off around 11pm and Alfie played their usual "dancey" set which once again went down well with the punters with lots of dancing and "community" singing.
The night was rounded off with a double encore as we finished off around midnight. The Landlord, Ade, was very complimentary and said that several couples had asked him to book us again, so we are looking to find a suitable date for an early return and another great night of live music in Tottington.
Paul
1st April 2017 - The Old Black Bull, Preston
April fool's day but there was no fooling around as Alfie returned "home" for an explosive rocking night for new Landlord Richard. A good crowd, as usual for this venue, was as enthusiastic as ever, with one particular young lady (a fine exponent of the "enthuse"), desperate to join Tony on stage, demolishing the Band video camera in her weirdly "subdued" excitement!
Gig 125 for Alfie started with set one and our usual up tempo fair with dancing and singing duly breaking out as we rocked into the evening. Many familiar faces were in attendance and as ever we were delighted to see these "guys" and grateful that they made the effort to come out and support Live Music....and in this case....Us!
Set two was more up tempo "tunes" and enthusiastic singing and dancing continued unbounded. This was a particularly good night for Alfie at "The Bull" and we look forward, yet again, to a return later in the year!
Paul
Gig 125 for Alfie started with set one and our usual up tempo fair with dancing and singing duly breaking out as we rocked into the evening. Many familiar faces were in attendance and as ever we were delighted to see these "guys" and grateful that they made the effort to come out and support Live Music....and in this case....Us!
Set two was more up tempo "tunes" and enthusiastic singing and dancing continued unbounded. This was a particularly good night for Alfie at "The Bull" and we look forward, yet again, to a return later in the year!
Paul
25th March 2017 - The Rose, farington
After just over a year, Alfie find themselves back in the Rose in Farington with the same dynamic duo of Scousers still at the helm as Landlords.
This was the first "run out" for Ian Cooke, Alfie's new Bass player who apart from his 5 string magic brings some wonderful extra backing vocals to our musical table.
A relatively quick set up and sound check was watched intently by young Freddie, one of our youngest fans, who was given an audition as our drummer....if only his feet could reach the kick drum pedal, then he "was in" (sorry Ian) as far as I'm concerned!
This was the first "run out" for Ian Cooke, Alfie's new Bass player who apart from his 5 string magic brings some wonderful extra backing vocals to our musical table.
A relatively quick set up and sound check was watched intently by young Freddie, one of our youngest fans, who was given an audition as our drummer....if only his feet could reach the kick drum pedal, then he "was in" (sorry Ian) as far as I'm concerned!
Freddie auditions for the Band!
Set one was our standard up tempo offering which was received very well by the gathered throng. Given this was Ian's first gig he was rocking along like the "old Pro" he clearly is.
After a relatively long break, Set Two delivered another up tempo feast with a particularly enthusiastic young fella, with a "new set of pegs", dancing manically whilst delivering an alternative rhythm with a set of red maracas.
Alfie rounded off with our usual encore and closed things down at around midnight.
Another great night in Farington and we look forward to returning again soon.
Paul
After a relatively long break, Set Two delivered another up tempo feast with a particularly enthusiastic young fella, with a "new set of pegs", dancing manically whilst delivering an alternative rhythm with a set of red maracas.
Alfie rounded off with our usual encore and closed things down at around midnight.
Another great night in Farington and we look forward to returning again soon.
Paul
11th February 2017 - The Old Black Bull, Preston
Alfie were back again on "home turf", it's always a pleasure to play at the Black Bull, a bustling and lively City Centre pub with a large stage area.
Alfie played a "Rockier" set one than usual, with Brown Sugar and Sunshine of your Love going down particularly well.
Set two was the more usual "dancier" affair starting with the usual barnstorming House Party. Lots of dancing ensued, some guys in Oasis masks proving to have particularly interesting 'moves"!
The usual encore rounded off another great night in Preston and we look forward to our return in early April.
Paul
Alfie played a "Rockier" set one than usual, with Brown Sugar and Sunshine of your Love going down particularly well.
Set two was the more usual "dancier" affair starting with the usual barnstorming House Party. Lots of dancing ensued, some guys in Oasis masks proving to have particularly interesting 'moves"!
The usual encore rounded off another great night in Preston and we look forward to our return in early April.
Paul
4th February 2017 - The Wellington, Ashton, Preston
Our first gig of 2017 and our 4th Birthday as a gigging band. It was great to return so soon to the Wellington with its new manager Mark who made us as welcome as Alan the previous "gaffer".
The evening started well with Diane presenting the Band with commemerative "Alfie" mugs. It had been over six weeks since Alfie last gigged and there were a few interesting "jazz" variations in the first set, but by the second set we were once again in "Rolls Royce" territory!
The firsts set was the usual up tempo / well known fare and went down very well. The second set was likewise familiar and dancers slowly but surely emerged and gyrated to the rhythmic feast presented.
Things were going so well by the end of the night that Alfie had to play three, yes three, encores, taking us well past the midnight curfew. Mark clearly didn't mind taking the risk and neither did we :-)
A quick break down and off into a chilly and damp night .... it's great to be back!
Paul
The evening started well with Diane presenting the Band with commemerative "Alfie" mugs. It had been over six weeks since Alfie last gigged and there were a few interesting "jazz" variations in the first set, but by the second set we were once again in "Rolls Royce" territory!
The firsts set was the usual up tempo / well known fare and went down very well. The second set was likewise familiar and dancers slowly but surely emerged and gyrated to the rhythmic feast presented.
Things were going so well by the end of the night that Alfie had to play three, yes three, encores, taking us well past the midnight curfew. Mark clearly didn't mind taking the risk and neither did we :-)
A quick break down and off into a chilly and damp night .... it's great to be back!
Paul
10th December 2016 - The Wellington, Ashton, Preston
Deja Vu for Alfie as we were back at "The Welly" for a penultimate night of Live Music for Alan the Landlord and our secong gig there in a fortnight!
At Alan's request we played "stuff folk know and can dance to" with modified sets to cover his request.... and sure enough it worked a treat and 'Folk" were up dancing in set one and all of the way through set two. One enthusiastic young lady dancing at the front of the stage would mischeiviously flick Tony's "pace notes" over a page or two just to keep him on his toes...haha!
This was a wonderfully hot and sweaty night of great loud music, much dancing and frivolity and was certainly one of our most enjoyable gigs of the year.
Whilst Alan is retiring as Landlord at The Wellington, live music at this venue will continue and we look forward to returning in 2017 for more excellent rockin' times.
Paul
At Alan's request we played "stuff folk know and can dance to" with modified sets to cover his request.... and sure enough it worked a treat and 'Folk" were up dancing in set one and all of the way through set two. One enthusiastic young lady dancing at the front of the stage would mischeiviously flick Tony's "pace notes" over a page or two just to keep him on his toes...haha!
This was a wonderfully hot and sweaty night of great loud music, much dancing and frivolity and was certainly one of our most enjoyable gigs of the year.
Whilst Alan is retiring as Landlord at The Wellington, live music at this venue will continue and we look forward to returning in 2017 for more excellent rockin' times.
Paul
3rd December 2016 - The Wheatsheaf Hotel, Coppull
The Wheatsheaf in Coppull is an excellent little venue which has recently been refurbished and has a nice sized stage area.
The bar staff were exceptionally friendly as were the locals, two of whom were up dancing at the sound check! :-)
Alfie reverted to there more accessable sets for this gig and both went down very well indeed, with others getting up to join our enthusiastic "sound check jivers" throughout the evening.
At the beginning of Rebel Rebel in set one, Charlie's super expensive amp decided to "curl up its toes" and there was a short interuption to events while his spare was plugged in and redered up and running.
The rest of the evening went very smoothly and after our encore we packed down for a relatively early finish at around 11.40...it was supposed to be 11.30, due to neighbourhood restrictions, but you HAVE to do an encore.
Looking forward to returning to the Wheatsheaf, it was a thouroughly enjoyable experience for all!
Paul
The bar staff were exceptionally friendly as were the locals, two of whom were up dancing at the sound check! :-)
Alfie reverted to there more accessable sets for this gig and both went down very well indeed, with others getting up to join our enthusiastic "sound check jivers" throughout the evening.
At the beginning of Rebel Rebel in set one, Charlie's super expensive amp decided to "curl up its toes" and there was a short interuption to events while his spare was plugged in and redered up and running.
The rest of the evening went very smoothly and after our encore we packed down for a relatively early finish at around 11.40...it was supposed to be 11.30, due to neighbourhood restrictions, but you HAVE to do an encore.
Looking forward to returning to the Wheatsheaf, it was a thouroughly enjoyable experience for all!
Paul
26th November 2016 - The Wellington, Ashton, Preston
The Wellington has one of the tightest stage areas you can imagine. It is a logistical and engineering feat of magnificent proportions to get us shoehorned into the playing area. That said, it's a great place to play and Alan, the Landlord, bedecked in ever-present "pork pie" hat, always makes us most welcome.
Alfie were called in at the last minute to fill in for a band that had pulled out, but always prepared, Alfie played a rocky first set and a dancier second set and both were well received by the audience, with sporadic dancing and "community" singing.
The Wellington is an 11.30 finish and that extra half hour makes all the difference, a relatively swift breakdown had the backdrop of a couple of drunken "young bucks" winding up Alan who dealt with it with consummate professionalism. Entertainment over, we headed off into a frosty November night. It will be great to get back to the Wellington soon....oh hang on!, we are back there in a fortnight....happy days!
Keith Blackledge an independant music reviewer was also at this gig and wrote....
It has been two or three years since I last heard this band and I have to say I was impressed with what they did and how they did it. Tony Wardle the bands front man, on lead vocal and an excellent harp player kicked off the first set “Brown Sugar” with a good solid bass from Charlie Pearson and giving it large Ian Massey on drums, this rhythm section was spot on, and completing the line -up was Paul Mason on lead guitar. The band gave us a shot in the arm of blues, and Rhythm and Blues with the likes of “Sunshine”, “Misunderstood”, “Boom Boom”, “Keep on Running”, “Rebel Rebel” just great numbers to boogie to.
The second set was just as entertaining a brilliant mixture of popular music, “House Party” “All Over Now”, “All Day and All of the Night”, “House is a Rockin’” superb stuff, “Mustang Sally” I thought was a particular good version, this band did it for me and the audience thought so as well, they will be appearing around the Northwest, check out their band site for their gigs, you’ll be glad you did.
Thanks for the kind words Keith :-)
Paul
Alfie were called in at the last minute to fill in for a band that had pulled out, but always prepared, Alfie played a rocky first set and a dancier second set and both were well received by the audience, with sporadic dancing and "community" singing.
The Wellington is an 11.30 finish and that extra half hour makes all the difference, a relatively swift breakdown had the backdrop of a couple of drunken "young bucks" winding up Alan who dealt with it with consummate professionalism. Entertainment over, we headed off into a frosty November night. It will be great to get back to the Wellington soon....oh hang on!, we are back there in a fortnight....happy days!
Keith Blackledge an independant music reviewer was also at this gig and wrote....
It has been two or three years since I last heard this band and I have to say I was impressed with what they did and how they did it. Tony Wardle the bands front man, on lead vocal and an excellent harp player kicked off the first set “Brown Sugar” with a good solid bass from Charlie Pearson and giving it large Ian Massey on drums, this rhythm section was spot on, and completing the line -up was Paul Mason on lead guitar. The band gave us a shot in the arm of blues, and Rhythm and Blues with the likes of “Sunshine”, “Misunderstood”, “Boom Boom”, “Keep on Running”, “Rebel Rebel” just great numbers to boogie to.
The second set was just as entertaining a brilliant mixture of popular music, “House Party” “All Over Now”, “All Day and All of the Night”, “House is a Rockin’” superb stuff, “Mustang Sally” I thought was a particular good version, this band did it for me and the audience thought so as well, they will be appearing around the Northwest, check out their band site for their gigs, you’ll be glad you did.
Thanks for the kind words Keith :-)
Paul
18th November 2016 - The Talbot, Burnley
A welcome return to see Marco and the Team at the talbot in Burnley. An excellent stage area in a pub noted for it's 'muso' crowd.
Alfie played their 'rockier" first half which was well received on a relatively quiet night in Burnley.
The second set was a rocky affair too and was like wise well received by a dancy audience.
This was a fun night out, but nothing exceptional or out of the ordinary happened, it was just a good old fashioned night of Rock with a little bit of Roll thrown in for good measure.
Always a great night in Burnley and Marco assures us we will be back in 2017.
Paul
Alfie played their 'rockier" first half which was well received on a relatively quiet night in Burnley.
The second set was a rocky affair too and was like wise well received by a dancy audience.
This was a fun night out, but nothing exceptional or out of the ordinary happened, it was just a good old fashioned night of Rock with a little bit of Roll thrown in for good measure.
Always a great night in Burnley and Marco assures us we will be back in 2017.
Paul
12th November 2016 - Old Black Bull, Preston
Back once again on our Home turf and a wonderful return it was. A packed venue, enthusiastic crowd and a great atmosphere.
Alfie played more of their Rocky stuff in an extended first set and it went down very well indeed. A large BJ's contingent added greatly to the atmosphere and all was well indeed.
The second set was more dance based and saw the re-emergence of an extremely enthusiatic young fellow in tight jeans, a crop top and a drink with a straw in it....and boy did he have eyes for Tony, henceforth known as "Big Boy"!
Dancing right in front of the singer with hip thrusts, tambourine hip thrusts, straw in drink hip thrusts....you name it and he was thrusting it hipwise in Tony's direction, while mouthing "Big Boy" in a most lascivious manner. A young Chinese girl also showed a very keen interest in the band in general so along with the BJ's cohorts Alfie felt very much "loved"...haha! Facebook the following day reflected the superbness of the previous evening with comments including, " a good gig with lots of fun, "great gig atmosphere with some interesting dancing", 'so funny, great night with fab friends and made some new friends too"....and Tony's view, "an eventful evening"!
This was a cracking gig which we all enjoyed immensely! We can't wait to be back in the New Year.
Paul
Alfie played more of their Rocky stuff in an extended first set and it went down very well indeed. A large BJ's contingent added greatly to the atmosphere and all was well indeed.
The second set was more dance based and saw the re-emergence of an extremely enthusiatic young fellow in tight jeans, a crop top and a drink with a straw in it....and boy did he have eyes for Tony, henceforth known as "Big Boy"!
Dancing right in front of the singer with hip thrusts, tambourine hip thrusts, straw in drink hip thrusts....you name it and he was thrusting it hipwise in Tony's direction, while mouthing "Big Boy" in a most lascivious manner. A young Chinese girl also showed a very keen interest in the band in general so along with the BJ's cohorts Alfie felt very much "loved"...haha! Facebook the following day reflected the superbness of the previous evening with comments including, " a good gig with lots of fun, "great gig atmosphere with some interesting dancing", 'so funny, great night with fab friends and made some new friends too"....and Tony's view, "an eventful evening"!
This was a cracking gig which we all enjoyed immensely! We can't wait to be back in the New Year.
Paul
29th October 2016 - The Stanhill, Oswaldtwistle
Oswaldtwistle revisited and a brand new stage greeted us as we returned to the Stanhill. Due to conflicts with neighbours, who don't understand that Pubs are noisy places, the stage had to be relocated and now directly faces the Bar. That said, it is now a raised stage and is a reasonable size, so not all is bad.
Alfie played their usual pub rock first set which went down very well as ever. Tony decided to supplement the PA with extra speakers for set two to make sure the punters to the right got the full Alfie experience.
Set two went down well again with lots of dancing and a full percussion section thanks to Tracy and Diane, as usual, distributing tambourines and Maracas.
Another great night in a great place, and no ice on the windscrenes this time around, but I am sure I heard a howl across the moors as I was leaving!
Paul
Alfie played their usual pub rock first set which went down very well as ever. Tony decided to supplement the PA with extra speakers for set two to make sure the punters to the right got the full Alfie experience.
Set two went down well again with lots of dancing and a full percussion section thanks to Tracy and Diane, as usual, distributing tambourines and Maracas.
Another great night in a great place, and no ice on the windscrenes this time around, but I am sure I heard a howl across the moors as I was leaving!
Paul
15th October 2016 - The Rope & Anchor, Atherton
Back again to one of our more regular "hunting grounds" in deepest Atherton on a quiet night in the town.
An easy set up and sound check was followed by a hybrid first set, inserting a couple of less well known numbers.
As the pub filled up, the band were joined by some colourful punters, including a very striking Lady who worked on a building site and her partner sporting a rather impressive "Wolverine" beard.
The second set saw Alfie revert to the more usual well known songs and dancing and a "rythmn section" was established. As the set drew to a close, more colourful punters emerged who wanted to join us on stage, hence the encore was executed with several "Bez" type characters dancing and wailing along with the band, much to the delight of their very happy friends in the audience, the things you have to do eh?
Looking forwrad to returning to Atherton yet again in 2017, once we can track down Billy with the 2017 gig diary.
Paul
An easy set up and sound check was followed by a hybrid first set, inserting a couple of less well known numbers.
As the pub filled up, the band were joined by some colourful punters, including a very striking Lady who worked on a building site and her partner sporting a rather impressive "Wolverine" beard.
The second set saw Alfie revert to the more usual well known songs and dancing and a "rythmn section" was established. As the set drew to a close, more colourful punters emerged who wanted to join us on stage, hence the encore was executed with several "Bez" type characters dancing and wailing along with the band, much to the delight of their very happy friends in the audience, the things you have to do eh?
Looking forwrad to returning to Atherton yet again in 2017, once we can track down Billy with the 2017 gig diary.
Paul
12th October 2016 - Welcome Inn, Whitefield, Bury
The Welcome Inn is a well known "Muso" pub on the outskirts of Bury and always attracts a knowledgeable and enthusiastic musically inclined audience....tonight was no exception.
Alfie dusted off a number of old Blues / Rock songs for this gig, including a couple of "slowies" which went down particularly well.
Both sets were a complete mix up of Alfie's usual Fayre along with the aforementioned 'new" oldies. Given the length of time since these older songs were last aired, they were executed rather well, judging by the applause and whoops from the audience.
Payment for this gig is slightly unusual, made up af a modest amount from the pub supplemented by a whip round from the audience. Judging by the net result, everyone was happy :-)
If only there were more venues like the Welcome Inn, the World would be a much better musical place. We can't wait to return in 2017.
Paul
Alfie dusted off a number of old Blues / Rock songs for this gig, including a couple of "slowies" which went down particularly well.
Both sets were a complete mix up of Alfie's usual Fayre along with the aforementioned 'new" oldies. Given the length of time since these older songs were last aired, they were executed rather well, judging by the applause and whoops from the audience.
Payment for this gig is slightly unusual, made up af a modest amount from the pub supplemented by a whip round from the audience. Judging by the net result, everyone was happy :-)
If only there were more venues like the Welcome Inn, the World would be a much better musical place. We can't wait to return in 2017.
Paul
1st October 2016 - The Balcarres Arms, Haigh, Wigan
A wonderful Night with Neil and the Team at The Balcarres Arms in Haigh (pronounced Hay) near Wigan.
The stage area was quite good, playing in a sort of horseshoe area projecting out down the main bar. Set up and sound check were uneventful and the pub slowly fiiled up.
The audience were very responsive and the usual set one went down well with some early outbreaks of dancing.
After a half hour break or so, set two went down very well as well with even more dancing and some raucous attempts at singing and even harmonies...and I'm not talking about Ian!
A very enjoyable night which Neil, the Landlord, enjoyed and it looks like we will be returning in the New Year!
Paul
The stage area was quite good, playing in a sort of horseshoe area projecting out down the main bar. Set up and sound check were uneventful and the pub slowly fiiled up.
The audience were very responsive and the usual set one went down well with some early outbreaks of dancing.
After a half hour break or so, set two went down very well as well with even more dancing and some raucous attempts at singing and even harmonies...and I'm not talking about Ian!
A very enjoyable night which Neil, the Landlord, enjoyed and it looks like we will be returning in the New Year!
Paul
27th September 2016 - St Anthony's Social Centre, Preston
The Spire AGM and another "charity" gig for Alfie and another great time was had by all. Spire Service Users ARE the best audience as everyone is out to enjoy themselves....and we all did!
Alfie did a single set after the AGM and tasty buffet and before the highlight of the night...the Raffle....No... Tony's Distinguished Service Award for saving a Service Users life! Impressive stuff from the Alfie frontman we all agreed!
The single set was all up tempo numbers with lots of dancing, singing and photographing taking place.
These guys love live music and we love playing it for them....we will back for next year's AGM... put that on your Agenda...haha!
Paul
Alfie did a single set after the AGM and tasty buffet and before the highlight of the night...the Raffle....No... Tony's Distinguished Service Award for saving a Service Users life! Impressive stuff from the Alfie frontman we all agreed!
The single set was all up tempo numbers with lots of dancing, singing and photographing taking place.
These guys love live music and we love playing it for them....we will back for next year's AGM... put that on your Agenda...haha!
Paul
24th September 2016 - Upholland labour Club, Skelmersdale
"A great night last night at Upholland Labour Club... a journey back in time to a huge concert rooms, a concert secretary and cheap beer...the dream continues to be lived.... "
The room at Upholland Labor Club is magnificent, large stage, nice dancefloor and two tier seating for around a hundred or so punters. It was an easy in easy out for the gear through the emergency exit and we were all set up and ready to go by 8.30.
Our first set was delayed a little for bingo....priorities are priorities afetr all, and we emerged from our bijou dressing room and delivered a slightly longer than usual first set which went down rather well. The concert secretary had told us, in a friendly Scouse way, to "do what the fuck you want" when questioned about the night's agenda!
After a relatively short break we delivered another slightly longer second set and much dancing ensued with one young lady rhythmically "stotting" a tambourine up and down on the stage in front of Tony .... it may have been some sort of "woolyback" mating ritual,who knows, but her enthusiasm knew little bounds not a sentiment echoed by the Alfie vocalist!
We did our usual encore before the disco and affable DJ played the night out as we broke the gear down and headed into the drizzly night. All in all, a great working mans club experience and one we would happily repeat again.
Paul
The room at Upholland Labor Club is magnificent, large stage, nice dancefloor and two tier seating for around a hundred or so punters. It was an easy in easy out for the gear through the emergency exit and we were all set up and ready to go by 8.30.
Our first set was delayed a little for bingo....priorities are priorities afetr all, and we emerged from our bijou dressing room and delivered a slightly longer than usual first set which went down rather well. The concert secretary had told us, in a friendly Scouse way, to "do what the fuck you want" when questioned about the night's agenda!
After a relatively short break we delivered another slightly longer second set and much dancing ensued with one young lady rhythmically "stotting" a tambourine up and down on the stage in front of Tony .... it may have been some sort of "woolyback" mating ritual,who knows, but her enthusiasm knew little bounds not a sentiment echoed by the Alfie vocalist!
We did our usual encore before the disco and affable DJ played the night out as we broke the gear down and headed into the drizzly night. All in all, a great working mans club experience and one we would happily repeat again.
Paul
20th August 2016 - The New Inn, Little Hulton
Back on stage after six weeks off and Alfie find themselves in Little Hulton, a few miles from Atherton in North Manchester.
The stage area is reasonably wide if a little shallow but better than a lot we have encountered over the years. A quick sound check and we were ready to go at around 9.30.
The band were ready and waiting for Tony who eventually emerged from our makeshift dressing room, the kitchen, wearing, in his words, "very stylish headgear". The WAGs had by this time descended into fits of guffaws and giggles and the band were grinning like cats from Cheshire. The audience immediately responded will calls for AC/DC tunes, but Tony, unabashed, introduced the band and off we went!
The first set went down well as did the second with much dancing in evidence. The audience had turned their attention from calls for AC/DC to Huey Lewis, which is as perplexing now as it was then.
A great way to get back "into the saddle" and hopefully we will return to Little Hulton and the employ of Mr Wong again soon.
Paul
The stage area is reasonably wide if a little shallow but better than a lot we have encountered over the years. A quick sound check and we were ready to go at around 9.30.
The band were ready and waiting for Tony who eventually emerged from our makeshift dressing room, the kitchen, wearing, in his words, "very stylish headgear". The WAGs had by this time descended into fits of guffaws and giggles and the band were grinning like cats from Cheshire. The audience immediately responded will calls for AC/DC tunes, but Tony, unabashed, introduced the band and off we went!
The first set went down well as did the second with much dancing in evidence. The audience had turned their attention from calls for AC/DC to Huey Lewis, which is as perplexing now as it was then.
A great way to get back "into the saddle" and hopefully we will return to Little Hulton and the employ of Mr Wong again soon.
Paul
9th July 2016 - Rope & Anchor, Atherton
This was a very wet trip to Atherton, but a welcome return to the Rope & Anchor. The pub was incredibly quiet as Alfie set up and sound checked. The landlord and many of the regulars were off to some "do" and another event nearby also drained the pub of an audience....However...numbers picked up as the first set progressed and by the end of the evening the place was buzzing.
Alfie played their usual dancy sets and were well received as usual with much dancing and percussion from the gathered throng.
While the weather outside was fightful, the gig was quite delightful....if a little uneventful.
Paul
Alfie played their usual dancy sets and were well received as usual with much dancing and percussion from the gathered throng.
While the weather outside was fightful, the gig was quite delightful....if a little uneventful.
Paul
28th May 2016 - Whitefield Conservative Club, Whitefield
Whitefield Conservative Club is, by their own admission, a trip back into the 1970s. A good old traditional working mans club with snooker tables, dart boards, membership cards, a committee, a concert secretary and a nice medium sized concert room....which is where Alfie found themselves for this Spring Bank Holiday outing.
The relatively small corner stage was not a problem and we were all set up and sound checked for a relatively early start at around 9pm. The first set was all familiar numbers and was well received by the select and vociferous audience.
Hotpot with mushy peas and red cabbage was served in the break along with a raffle with the most indecipherable ticket numbers of all time. The fact that the Steward selected a winning ticket number which no-one had just added to the tension as a re-draw was done this time using the correct stubs...most entertaining.
The second set was the usual "dancey" selection which did the job and the whole thing was wrapped up by 11.45. This was a wonderful throwback experience with the vape cigarettes adding a smokey feel to the evening. Let's hope we get a chance to do it all again.
Paul
The relatively small corner stage was not a problem and we were all set up and sound checked for a relatively early start at around 9pm. The first set was all familiar numbers and was well received by the select and vociferous audience.
Hotpot with mushy peas and red cabbage was served in the break along with a raffle with the most indecipherable ticket numbers of all time. The fact that the Steward selected a winning ticket number which no-one had just added to the tension as a re-draw was done this time using the correct stubs...most entertaining.
The second set was the usual "dancey" selection which did the job and the whole thing was wrapped up by 11.45. This was a wonderful throwback experience with the vape cigarettes adding a smokey feel to the evening. Let's hope we get a chance to do it all again.
Paul
14th May 2016 - The Old Black Bull, Preston
Here we are again...Home....The Old Black Bull in Preston and Tony proves, once again, that playing the harmonica and standing on one leg are not mutually exclusive "skills".
As ever the pub was busy and got progressively busier as the night wore on. Alfie were in Blues / Rock mode tonight and that was reflected in the first set with some good "tunes" for those who like "good" music.
Opening the night with Brown Sugar, Paul did his best to help the assembled throng re-appreciate the musical talent that was Les Dawson with several interesting interpretations of the chorus riff....all that was needed was a joke about the Mother in law and you would have sworn he was there in the room rockin' with us! The rest of the set was more in tune with the norm and the boys ripped it up to the interval. A lot of the old BJs crew had turned out along with many family and friends which all added to a great party atmosphere.
Set two was a little more dancey, but rocky nonetheless and the audience duly obliged and boogied on down. A couple of extra songs were inserted for fun and another, more standard rendition, of Brown Sugar was greeted with much enthusiasm. The usual encore ensued and that was it as another great night drew to a close.
The gear breakdown was to the enthusiastic strains of an entire pub singing "I'm getting married in the morning" after Tony had explained about Paul's impending nuptials the following day. So we finished musically as we started... in the style of Les Dawson with the Bar choir paying heed to neither tune nor lyric while belting out the timeless classic with "mucho gusto".... it was absolutely brilliant!! Thanks everybody!
Paul
As ever the pub was busy and got progressively busier as the night wore on. Alfie were in Blues / Rock mode tonight and that was reflected in the first set with some good "tunes" for those who like "good" music.
Opening the night with Brown Sugar, Paul did his best to help the assembled throng re-appreciate the musical talent that was Les Dawson with several interesting interpretations of the chorus riff....all that was needed was a joke about the Mother in law and you would have sworn he was there in the room rockin' with us! The rest of the set was more in tune with the norm and the boys ripped it up to the interval. A lot of the old BJs crew had turned out along with many family and friends which all added to a great party atmosphere.
Set two was a little more dancey, but rocky nonetheless and the audience duly obliged and boogied on down. A couple of extra songs were inserted for fun and another, more standard rendition, of Brown Sugar was greeted with much enthusiasm. The usual encore ensued and that was it as another great night drew to a close.
The gear breakdown was to the enthusiastic strains of an entire pub singing "I'm getting married in the morning" after Tony had explained about Paul's impending nuptials the following day. So we finished musically as we started... in the style of Les Dawson with the Bar choir paying heed to neither tune nor lyric while belting out the timeless classic with "mucho gusto".... it was absolutely brilliant!! Thanks everybody!
Paul
29th April 2016 - The Talbot, Burnley
It has been a while since Alfie graced the stage at the Talbot in Burnley and it was good to be back. The stage at the Talbot is one of the best around being relatively large and that always bodes for a good night ahead.
Waiting to enter the affray until the football had finished, Alfie played a "Rocky" first set which seemed to hit the spot with the eclectic audience assembled before them.
The second set was a little easier on the casual ear and very dancy to boot....thus much dancing ensued. The whole cha bang wrapped up just after midnight after the usual encore. Everyone seemed happy with the evening's entertainment and we look forward to our return in November.
Paul
Waiting to enter the affray until the football had finished, Alfie played a "Rocky" first set which seemed to hit the spot with the eclectic audience assembled before them.
The second set was a little easier on the casual ear and very dancy to boot....thus much dancing ensued. The whole cha bang wrapped up just after midnight after the usual encore. Everyone seemed happy with the evening's entertainment and we look forward to our return in November.
Paul
9th April 2016 - The Stanhill, Oswaldtwistle
There is no easy way to get to Oswaldtwistle..or out for that matter...zigzagging over the M65 in the hills just South of Blackburn and there it was..The Stanhill.... a medium sized pub with a friendly owner and bar staff, deep in Mill Country.
Once the diners had cleared the band could set up and do a hasty sound check. The stage area was quite roomy which made a pleasant change.
The usual first set want down well and was particularly well received by the owner's 3 year old daughter, Poppy, who was playing air guitar and nodding at me like I really should be doing better....fair point, young lady!
Set two was delayed whilst the entire pub watched "the boxing" which had been "procured" for the evening by some means of winking and nose tapping apparently! Fortunately the guy in the white shorts knocked out the guy in the black shorts within two rounds and World order was restored. I don't know much about boxing but it appears that the "Cowboy Hat" rule applies.....the one wearing white always wins.
A shortened set two eventually kicked off around 11.30 and much dancing and merriment ensued before we wrapped it all up around 12.15pm. The cars were iced up, it was a clear night but with some mist in the valleys and I swear I heard a wolf howl ... quickest drive home ever!
Great gig, great fun and it looks like we will be going back....but not when there is a full moon!
Paul
Once the diners had cleared the band could set up and do a hasty sound check. The stage area was quite roomy which made a pleasant change.
The usual first set want down well and was particularly well received by the owner's 3 year old daughter, Poppy, who was playing air guitar and nodding at me like I really should be doing better....fair point, young lady!
Set two was delayed whilst the entire pub watched "the boxing" which had been "procured" for the evening by some means of winking and nose tapping apparently! Fortunately the guy in the white shorts knocked out the guy in the black shorts within two rounds and World order was restored. I don't know much about boxing but it appears that the "Cowboy Hat" rule applies.....the one wearing white always wins.
A shortened set two eventually kicked off around 11.30 and much dancing and merriment ensued before we wrapped it all up around 12.15pm. The cars were iced up, it was a clear night but with some mist in the valleys and I swear I heard a wolf howl ... quickest drive home ever!
Great gig, great fun and it looks like we will be going back....but not when there is a full moon!
Paul
2nd April 2016 - Kings Arms Hotel, Ulverston
"Look Ma, Alfie's on the Telly!"
Whilst this was a 150 mile round trip for the St Annes Band members...it was well worth it. The Kings Arms is a good old fashioned pub and was full of good old fashioned folk who wanted a good drink and some good music....both were provided.
Chris and his team made us welcome and free beer was provided for the Band...a mixed blessing for those of us driving! The stage area was quite roomy and although viewing was difficult from some areas of the pub, this was more than compensated for by several large screen TVs beaming us live to all corners.
Alfie played some amended sets with more of a Blues Rock feel and both sets went down very well indeed and a double encore ensued. It was all wrapped up by midnight and after a relatively quick breakdown we were off on the road for the long drive home. The whole evening was great fun and we really look forward to returning as soon as busy diaries allow.
Paul
Chris and his team made us welcome and free beer was provided for the Band...a mixed blessing for those of us driving! The stage area was quite roomy and although viewing was difficult from some areas of the pub, this was more than compensated for by several large screen TVs beaming us live to all corners.
Alfie played some amended sets with more of a Blues Rock feel and both sets went down very well indeed and a double encore ensued. It was all wrapped up by midnight and after a relatively quick breakdown we were off on the road for the long drive home. The whole evening was great fun and we really look forward to returning as soon as busy diaries allow.
Paul
5th march 2016 - Wishing Well, Tardy gate, Lostock hall
The Wishing Well in Tardy Gate was beautifully refurbished in November 2015. The beer garden is a wonder to behold in itself. The stage area on the other hand is a little weird and meant that most of the band were not visible to most of the punters and vice versa.....a blessing some may say!
Alfie rocked through their usual sets and much dancing and shaking of percussion instruments ensued. One rather attractive young lady in leather trousers did her inadvertent best to distract the band with her rhythmic offering, but like true professionals Alfie powered through!
Two Alfie regulars, Lizz and Steve, rolled up towards the end of set one having gone to last night's venue first by mistake.....oh how we laughed!
Finishing with the usual "Hard to Handle / Hush" encore at around 11.45, we packed up fairly swiftly and headed off home. It was good fun tonight and something we would like to repeat again soon, sentiments shared by the Landlady as we look to organise a return booking.
Paul
Alfie rocked through their usual sets and much dancing and shaking of percussion instruments ensued. One rather attractive young lady in leather trousers did her inadvertent best to distract the band with her rhythmic offering, but like true professionals Alfie powered through!
Two Alfie regulars, Lizz and Steve, rolled up towards the end of set one having gone to last night's venue first by mistake.....oh how we laughed!
Finishing with the usual "Hard to Handle / Hush" encore at around 11.45, we packed up fairly swiftly and headed off home. It was good fun tonight and something we would like to repeat again soon, sentiments shared by the Landlady as we look to organise a return booking.
Paul
4th March 2016 - O'Neill's, Preston
A Winter's Friday night in Preston is rarely riotous and tonight proved a case in point. The town was quiet and so was O'Neill's.
Alfie did their level best to arouse the musical spirits of the Preston public and certainly achieved it in the case of one couple....from South Shields and Leigh....ah well!
The Stage was fairly cramped and didn't offer much in the way of headroom for the taller band members, with Six Nations flags regularly ruffling Tony's expensively coiffered barnet!
The usual up tempo / dancy sets were duly delivered with a new song "House Party" offering a rousing start to set Two. The evening romped along and Alfie eventually brought things to a close just after 11.30.
The venue was really quite good in a bijou sort of way....just missing a few punters....roll on Spring eh?
Paul
Alfie did their level best to arouse the musical spirits of the Preston public and certainly achieved it in the case of one couple....from South Shields and Leigh....ah well!
The Stage was fairly cramped and didn't offer much in the way of headroom for the taller band members, with Six Nations flags regularly ruffling Tony's expensively coiffered barnet!
The usual up tempo / dancy sets were duly delivered with a new song "House Party" offering a rousing start to set Two. The evening romped along and Alfie eventually brought things to a close just after 11.30.
The venue was really quite good in a bijou sort of way....just missing a few punters....roll on Spring eh?
Paul
27th February 2016 - Our Ladies Parish Centre, St Annes
Alfie Versus Alzheimers
Tonight was all about raising money for the Alzheimers Society to help in the magnificent work they do in supporting dementia sufferers and their carers navigate their way along their individual journeys.
Well over 140 people turned out in support and an evening of music and merriment was ready to rock!
Well over 140 people turned out in support and an evening of music and merriment was ready to rock!
Guy kicked off musical proceedings with 45 minutes of wonderfully selected and masterfully interpreted songs from the last forty years or so.
Included were great renditions of "Big Yellow Taxi", "Meet Me On The Corner" and "The Boys Are Back In Town".
Included were great renditions of "Big Yellow Taxi", "Meet Me On The Corner" and "The Boys Are Back In Town".
For the last two songs "Happy" and "Hey Ya" Guy was joined on stage by Nigel and Paul to act as the most unattractive but relatively effective backing singers adding a certain frisson of quality to the songs.
The audience duly joined in for a rather pleasing and surprisingly tuneful end to Guys marvelous endeavours!
The audience duly joined in for a rather pleasing and surprisingly tuneful end to Guys marvelous endeavours!
Lucas Campbell of BJs Blues Club and The Rock of Ages radio Show, dusted off his wonderful guitar and wowed the crowd with three original songs.
Lucas acted as Master of Ceremonies for the evening and as ever, in good BJ's style, did a fantastically professional job.
Lucas acted as Master of Ceremonies for the evening and as ever, in good BJ's style, did a fantastically professional job.
Following on from Lucas was a one off performace from the Mason Bainbridge Band, delivering three high octane, up tempo and incredibly short songs.
"Ever Fallen in Love With", "Molly's Chamber" and "Teenage Kicks" delivered with aplomb and to the delight of the "Yutes" table who enthusiastically whooped and whistled...aimed more at Michael than his ancient "backing band" methinks!
"Ever Fallen in Love With", "Molly's Chamber" and "Teenage Kicks" delivered with aplomb and to the delight of the "Yutes" table who enthusiastically whooped and whistled...aimed more at Michael than his ancient "backing band" methinks!
Alfie rounded off the evening, playing two sets especially tailored for the sort of Audience that the event had attracted. Up tempo well known numbers were to the fore and it wasn't long before dancing started.
The first dancers appeared outside the "Hot Dog" hatch but the main dance floor quickly filled up and everyone was boogying down and having a great time.
The sets were punctuated by the raffle draw with over 20 donated prizes to be won and each winner was greeted with great enthusiasm tinged with a hint of jealousy.
Alfie's second set was another "dance fest" brought to a rather abrupt conclusion at around 11.45 when the Licensee told us we HAD to finish! So an absolutely fantastic night of music, friendship and love drew to a fabulous close. Everybody had an absolute blast and over £620 was raised......now I call that a result....Happy Days :-)
Paul
The first dancers appeared outside the "Hot Dog" hatch but the main dance floor quickly filled up and everyone was boogying down and having a great time.
The sets were punctuated by the raffle draw with over 20 donated prizes to be won and each winner was greeted with great enthusiasm tinged with a hint of jealousy.
Alfie's second set was another "dance fest" brought to a rather abrupt conclusion at around 11.45 when the Licensee told us we HAD to finish! So an absolutely fantastic night of music, friendship and love drew to a fabulous close. Everybody had an absolute blast and over £620 was raised......now I call that a result....Happy Days :-)
Paul
13th February 2016 - Old Black Bull, Preston
Well here we are folks, gig number 100 and Alfie are back at the Old Black Bull (where we celebrated our 50th gig) in Preston, after 3 years of rockin' together.
As a centenary treat to ourselves, Alfie played a much more Blues Rock orientated set to a packed venue with several familiar faces who had kindly come along on a cold winters night to help us celebrate this milestone.
Both sets went down very well with the busy throng and dancing was witnessed all through the evening.
It was great to celebrate our 100th gig on "home turf" and great to see such good support for live music.
We will be back at the Old Black Bull at least three more times in 2016, we look forward to catching you at some if not all of those occasions.
Paul
As a centenary treat to ourselves, Alfie played a much more Blues Rock orientated set to a packed venue with several familiar faces who had kindly come along on a cold winters night to help us celebrate this milestone.
Both sets went down very well with the busy throng and dancing was witnessed all through the evening.
It was great to celebrate our 100th gig on "home turf" and great to see such good support for live music.
We will be back at the Old Black Bull at least three more times in 2016, we look forward to catching you at some if not all of those occasions.
Paul
6th February 2016 - Rope & Anchor, Atherton
Returning once again to Atherton and The Rope & Anchor for a warm welcome and a very busy venue. As ever (usual) the manager and bar staff were excellent and very supportive.
Alfie played their usual sets and went down well, as usual....it was all a bit usual really, but in a nice, usual, way!
Nothing unusual happened that I can recall...and to Charlie it was all a bit of a blur judging by the photograph.
We all packed up as usual....and headed off home...as usual.
Paul....as usual!
Alfie played their usual sets and went down well, as usual....it was all a bit usual really, but in a nice, usual, way!
Nothing unusual happened that I can recall...and to Charlie it was all a bit of a blur judging by the photograph.
We all packed up as usual....and headed off home...as usual.
Paul....as usual!
30th January 2016 - The Legion Club, Colne
Back in the saddle after a few weeks off, Alfie made the long trip to Colne and a journey back in time to the wonderful Colne Legion Club. Great atmoshere in this old traditional Working Men's Club.
Introduced by the Concert Secretarie's husband, Alfie performed three half hour sets. The emphasis was on familiar tunes you can tap your feet to....and even dance to, which transpired during all three sets.
The break between sets two and three saw one lucky club member win a bottle of wine in the raffle while another won a mixed grill...long live the "meat draw" eh?
Finishing with the usual encore just after 11.30, another swift breakdown saw the boys headeing off into a wintery night for the long drive home. Was it worth it? Absolutely!
Paul
Introduced by the Concert Secretarie's husband, Alfie performed three half hour sets. The emphasis was on familiar tunes you can tap your feet to....and even dance to, which transpired during all three sets.
The break between sets two and three saw one lucky club member win a bottle of wine in the raffle while another won a mixed grill...long live the "meat draw" eh?
Finishing with the usual encore just after 11.30, another swift breakdown saw the boys headeing off into a wintery night for the long drive home. Was it worth it? Absolutely!
Paul
26th December 2015 - The Crows Nest, Widnes
Alfie completed their 2015 gig schedule with a Boxing Day extravaganza in Widnes. The venue was friendly and busy, although the weather outside was once again "Biblically" wet!
Alfie played their more "accessible" sets, given the proximity to Christmas and the make up of the audience and both sets were well received with cries for "More" even after the encore.
Lots of compliments and even hugs from the very merry audience as they left to finish off their Boxing day festivities at the "chippie" or Kebabery, while the relatively early 11.45 finish and a swift break down saw us off into the night by 12.30.
So Alfie complete a very succesful and fun packed year....roll on 2016, we WILL be ready..haha!
Paul
Alfie played their more "accessible" sets, given the proximity to Christmas and the make up of the audience and both sets were well received with cries for "More" even after the encore.
Lots of compliments and even hugs from the very merry audience as they left to finish off their Boxing day festivities at the "chippie" or Kebabery, while the relatively early 11.45 finish and a swift break down saw us off into the night by 12.30.
So Alfie complete a very succesful and fun packed year....roll on 2016, we WILL be ready..haha!
Paul
19th December 2015 - The Rose of Farington, Leyland
After a few weeks off, Alfie were back in action at the Rose of Farington, a nice pub not far from Leyland. The landlord, Anthony, and his barman, both Scousers, made us all very welcome indeed.
Christmas anthems were blasting from the piped music as we set up and party revellers in their Christmas jumpers brought the bar to life. This was amply supplemented by a full complement of Wags and the appearance of Lucas and Heidi of BJs fame. Later around another ten of the BJs gang also rolled up, a most excellent audience indeed! In fact, Given the state of the weather tonight and of late in general, had Noah turned up in his Christmas "gansy" no-one would have batted an eyelid!
With the proximity to Christmas and the party atmosphere in general, Alfie played a more "appropriate" brace of sets which went down very well with the gathered eclectic throng. Lucas was particularly taken with Sweet Soul Music which he had not seen performed live before.
The gig wrapped up around 11.50 and after a leisurely break down we headed off into the rain swept night...really looking forward to returning to Farington...but hopefully when it's drier.....Nice one!
Paul
Christmas anthems were blasting from the piped music as we set up and party revellers in their Christmas jumpers brought the bar to life. This was amply supplemented by a full complement of Wags and the appearance of Lucas and Heidi of BJs fame. Later around another ten of the BJs gang also rolled up, a most excellent audience indeed! In fact, Given the state of the weather tonight and of late in general, had Noah turned up in his Christmas "gansy" no-one would have batted an eyelid!
With the proximity to Christmas and the party atmosphere in general, Alfie played a more "appropriate" brace of sets which went down very well with the gathered eclectic throng. Lucas was particularly taken with Sweet Soul Music which he had not seen performed live before.
The gig wrapped up around 11.50 and after a leisurely break down we headed off into the rain swept night...really looking forward to returning to Farington...but hopefully when it's drier.....Nice one!
Paul
14th November 2015 - The Jolly Nailor, Atherton
Braving storms of "Biblical" proportions, Alfie journeyed south to Atherton near Wigan for another great night at the Jolly Nailor. While the weather outside was inclement, our welcome by Nicola and the team was as "clement" as it gets.
The set up was swift and painless despite the fact that Tony had a throat infection which he decided to self medicate by drinking Rum and Blackcurrant as a chaser to his usual ale...more of that later.
The Wags were in full attendance along with a small "rentacrowd" from St Annes. Always a later start in the Jolly Nailor (10pm), Set One was pretty much the standard first set with Tony's voice surviving the earlier songs before developing a more "Joe Cocker gargling gravel" tonality towards the end.
Set Two was modified a little to take into account Tony's predicament, reducing some of the songs into "Slipknotesque" renditions. Mustang Sally and Get Ready were "different" to say the least but Tainted Love eclipsed these as Tony decided to add an extra a-cappella final verse at the end of the song with the rest of the Band trailing merrily in his wake, but all arriving at a joint "second ending" by some miracle of Rum and experience.
Managing to finish the set with growly, mainly incomprehensible lyrics...but oddly in tune, the band closed with the usual encore. Tony showed that true Dunkirk spirit.... with copious amounts of "medicinal" rum leaving him a very "happy camper" indeed...haha!
Happy days and another memorable gig chalked up. Looking forward to being back in Atherton in the New Year.
Paul
The set up was swift and painless despite the fact that Tony had a throat infection which he decided to self medicate by drinking Rum and Blackcurrant as a chaser to his usual ale...more of that later.
The Wags were in full attendance along with a small "rentacrowd" from St Annes. Always a later start in the Jolly Nailor (10pm), Set One was pretty much the standard first set with Tony's voice surviving the earlier songs before developing a more "Joe Cocker gargling gravel" tonality towards the end.
Set Two was modified a little to take into account Tony's predicament, reducing some of the songs into "Slipknotesque" renditions. Mustang Sally and Get Ready were "different" to say the least but Tainted Love eclipsed these as Tony decided to add an extra a-cappella final verse at the end of the song with the rest of the Band trailing merrily in his wake, but all arriving at a joint "second ending" by some miracle of Rum and experience.
Managing to finish the set with growly, mainly incomprehensible lyrics...but oddly in tune, the band closed with the usual encore. Tony showed that true Dunkirk spirit.... with copious amounts of "medicinal" rum leaving him a very "happy camper" indeed...haha!
Happy days and another memorable gig chalked up. Looking forward to being back in Atherton in the New Year.
Paul
28th October 2015 - Bull& Royal, Preston
An early Halloween "do" for the folks at Spire was indeed a spooky affair...lots of Ghosties and Ghoulies...just happy we didn't get caught by the Ghoul.....you get the idea...badum tssh!
A special set was played lasting just over an hour specifically for dancing and was very well received by a very enthusiastic audience.
The Band were bedecked in a selection of costumes dragged out of Tony's cellar and we all carried a very authentic aroma of dank mustiness for the duration of the gig....and most of the day after!
The sound was rather good considering the odd shaped room and it was nice to dust off a few of our "dancier" numbers which had been parked for a while.
A great night and a great cause....ready and willing for the next one whenever that may be!
Paul
A special set was played lasting just over an hour specifically for dancing and was very well received by a very enthusiastic audience.
The Band were bedecked in a selection of costumes dragged out of Tony's cellar and we all carried a very authentic aroma of dank mustiness for the duration of the gig....and most of the day after!
The sound was rather good considering the odd shaped room and it was nice to dust off a few of our "dancier" numbers which had been parked for a while.
A great night and a great cause....ready and willing for the next one whenever that may be!
Paul
17th October 2015 - The Wellington, Ashton, Preston
The Wellington in Ashton is a favourite haunt of Alfie, even though the stage area is very small...as in "no pedal board for Paul" small. The atmosphere however is big and we always have a good night there. Tonight was no exception as we powered our way through a first set with a couple of oldies re-introduced.
We started with "Fire and Water" and that worked well as did the other changes later on in both sets.
The usual tambourines and maracas were well employed by enthusiastic volunteers as the impromptu rhythm section accompanied the dancers and seated "leg jiggers" alike! Set two was even more enthusiastically welcomed as alcohol reduced inhibitions and great music "lubricated" the evening.
As The Wellington is slap bang in the middle of lots of houses, we once again we had to wrap it all up by 11.30....a welcome early night for the band....and a great one at that....we will be back in 2016...can't wait!
Paul
We started with "Fire and Water" and that worked well as did the other changes later on in both sets.
The usual tambourines and maracas were well employed by enthusiastic volunteers as the impromptu rhythm section accompanied the dancers and seated "leg jiggers" alike! Set two was even more enthusiastically welcomed as alcohol reduced inhibitions and great music "lubricated" the evening.
As The Wellington is slap bang in the middle of lots of houses, we once again we had to wrap it all up by 11.30....a welcome early night for the band....and a great one at that....we will be back in 2016...can't wait!
Paul
10th October 2015 - The Rope & Anchor, Atherton
Rugby, Rugby and more Rugby! Being next to Wigan, Atherton is clearly a Rugby town.....and both codes were on show here on the massive TVs as we tried to set up underneath the biggest screen in a packed pub!
A very truncated sound check and "Rugby" factors meant that we kicked off the first set just before 10. All of the usual songs went down well with the "punters" with tambourines and maracas alike put to good rhythmic use by one and all.
Set two and one young lady decided to dance the entire proceedings between the bass bins and in front of Tony....a definite improvement was the general consensus, the tight leather skirt may have been a contributing factor in that assessment! The "dancey" nature of the second set meant that the "House Was A Rockin'" by the time we wrapped it up around midnight.
Another great gig in a great venue, and we were more than happy to secure a further three bookings from Broady, the manager, making 2016 something to look forward too in Atherton.
Paul
A very truncated sound check and "Rugby" factors meant that we kicked off the first set just before 10. All of the usual songs went down well with the "punters" with tambourines and maracas alike put to good rhythmic use by one and all.
Set two and one young lady decided to dance the entire proceedings between the bass bins and in front of Tony....a definite improvement was the general consensus, the tight leather skirt may have been a contributing factor in that assessment! The "dancey" nature of the second set meant that the "House Was A Rockin'" by the time we wrapped it up around midnight.
Another great gig in a great venue, and we were more than happy to secure a further three bookings from Broady, the manager, making 2016 something to look forward too in Atherton.
Paul
3rd October 2015 - The Raven Lodge, Saint Helens
Alfie's first trip to Saint Helens and a wonderfully warm welcome from the Landlord and Landlady at the Raven Lodge....to say nothing of the extremely friendly and chatty punters. The couple in charge have only recently taken over the venue and are trying to establish live music as a permanent feature there.
A nice large raised stage was a bonus in a fairly large room.
We played our usual set one which went down well as ever before we were harangued in the interval by a young chap who wanted to sing a song. After much deliberation we settled on "Day Tripper"!
Set two started with "Day Tripper", and to the bemusement of the locals, the young fellow proceded to give interpretation, with Tony's assistance, of the Beatles classic! Two and a half interesting minutes ensued with the "chanteuse" himself declaring, of his performance, "Aah was shite" and leaving the stage on completion of his Magnum Opus! ...you win some you loose some...!
A great night was had by the band despite a relatively sparse audience. The Landlords and the Locals are helping rebuild this venue....they are smashing people...let's hope they win this battle and that Alfie can celebrate there on stage in the near future.
Paul
A nice large raised stage was a bonus in a fairly large room.
We played our usual set one which went down well as ever before we were harangued in the interval by a young chap who wanted to sing a song. After much deliberation we settled on "Day Tripper"!
Set two started with "Day Tripper", and to the bemusement of the locals, the young fellow proceded to give interpretation, with Tony's assistance, of the Beatles classic! Two and a half interesting minutes ensued with the "chanteuse" himself declaring, of his performance, "Aah was shite" and leaving the stage on completion of his Magnum Opus! ...you win some you loose some...!
A great night was had by the band despite a relatively sparse audience. The Landlords and the Locals are helping rebuild this venue....they are smashing people...let's hope they win this battle and that Alfie can celebrate there on stage in the near future.
Paul
2nd October 2015 - The Dog & Partridge, Preston
A wonderfully busy venue for a Friday night, the Dog & Partridge has recently undergone a very nice refurbishment. Now you can watch the band streamed live on TV to all parts of the venue during the performance so everyone gets a great view.
Alfie played a few more "Blues" songs than normal on this occasion and they seemed to go down well. The first set was pretty standard and one lady in particular, who bore a strange resembalance to Mick Jagger, cetainly rocked it up for the 3 Stones songs in the set. Have they ever been seen in the same room "mewonders"?
The windows behind the stage provided extra interest, with dancing children, gurning adults and a wonderful light show as various 'Blues and Twos" roared up and down the main street outside.
The pub was really busy for set two and lots of dancing and singing along ensued, even some "Hipsters" joined the party adding a different vibe and a couple of broken glasses to proceedings.
Another excellent night for Alfie and a great venue to-boot!
Paul
Alfie played a few more "Blues" songs than normal on this occasion and they seemed to go down well. The first set was pretty standard and one lady in particular, who bore a strange resembalance to Mick Jagger, cetainly rocked it up for the 3 Stones songs in the set. Have they ever been seen in the same room "mewonders"?
The windows behind the stage provided extra interest, with dancing children, gurning adults and a wonderful light show as various 'Blues and Twos" roared up and down the main street outside.
The pub was really busy for set two and lots of dancing and singing along ensued, even some "Hipsters" joined the party adding a different vibe and a couple of broken glasses to proceedings.
Another excellent night for Alfie and a great venue to-boot!
Paul
26th September 2015 - O'Garr's Bar, Darwen
O'Garr's Bar is in practice a night club by traditional standards. It is housed in a late Victorian (1900) Co-op building on the edge of Darwen. Many of the features are period, including, one may think, the stair carpet which has gone beyond "sticky" to a state of calcification....very impressive!
The gig was in the large room upstairs which had once been an old dance hall and is an excellent venue for a live band. A nice large raised stage, a very large dance floor and plenty of space all around...brilliant.
The bad news....all the gear had to be carried up the "calcy carpet" stairs...and...our first set was at midnight!
Set one started just after the "witching hour" with the usual selection of songs with the addition of "when the Levee Breaks" for any passing Zeppelin fans. The set was well received by a third full venue made up of an eclectic mix of Darwen's finest young and old and pissed and half pissed in equal degree.
Set two kicked off just after one am to a very full and vibrant dance floor. This was a slightly modified set including a couple of good up tempo numbers rolled out at Colne a couple of weeks earlier. Much dancing ensued and we wrapped it all up at about 2am. Extricating the gear past the dancing throng (the club closed at 3.30am) was a challenge as was the trip down the "calcy carpet".... and we were ready for home just before 3am...zzzzzz eh?
This is a great venue with an excellent Landlord and Landlady....if you can manage the stairs and the late start! Would we go back.....absolutely yes!
Paul
The gig was in the large room upstairs which had once been an old dance hall and is an excellent venue for a live band. A nice large raised stage, a very large dance floor and plenty of space all around...brilliant.
The bad news....all the gear had to be carried up the "calcy carpet" stairs...and...our first set was at midnight!
Set one started just after the "witching hour" with the usual selection of songs with the addition of "when the Levee Breaks" for any passing Zeppelin fans. The set was well received by a third full venue made up of an eclectic mix of Darwen's finest young and old and pissed and half pissed in equal degree.
Set two kicked off just after one am to a very full and vibrant dance floor. This was a slightly modified set including a couple of good up tempo numbers rolled out at Colne a couple of weeks earlier. Much dancing ensued and we wrapped it all up at about 2am. Extricating the gear past the dancing throng (the club closed at 3.30am) was a challenge as was the trip down the "calcy carpet".... and we were ready for home just before 3am...zzzzzz eh?
This is a great venue with an excellent Landlord and Landlady....if you can manage the stairs and the late start! Would we go back.....absolutely yes!
Paul
30th August 2015 - The Crown Hotel, Colne
Alfie's second gig a the festival was in the "heaving" Crown Hotel right in the middle of the festival "main street" packed to the gunnels with music lovers (and drinkers) of all persuasions.
Alfie followed the Zoe Green Band, who had delivered an hour or so of excellent original and cover material.
The venue was packed, hot and steamy and band change over was a bit of a challenge through a single side door. Two drunken revellers decided to use said door as an entrance to the venue and the young lady fell spectacularly over the monitors and off the stage whilst distributing most of the contents of her pint into Tony's cables....which he was busily untangling. The young lady managed to hold onto her glass if not it's contents or indeed her dignity. Tony was very impressed and kindly gave her a little "hairdrying" as she retreated into the amused throng.
Due to unpublished time constraints, (we had to be offstage by 11.15) Alfie had to run their two sets together with only a ten minute re-watering break in between. A large and very vocal set of friends from BJs joined the Wags for much dancing, percussion and general frivolities, making the night one not to forget. The other festival goers were equally as impressed with proceedings and bouyed by the support Alfie gave one of their best performances to date.
A cracking end to a cracking festival for the Alfie boys.....next year? ...Yes please... :-)
Paul
Alfie followed the Zoe Green Band, who had delivered an hour or so of excellent original and cover material.
The venue was packed, hot and steamy and band change over was a bit of a challenge through a single side door. Two drunken revellers decided to use said door as an entrance to the venue and the young lady fell spectacularly over the monitors and off the stage whilst distributing most of the contents of her pint into Tony's cables....which he was busily untangling. The young lady managed to hold onto her glass if not it's contents or indeed her dignity. Tony was very impressed and kindly gave her a little "hairdrying" as she retreated into the amused throng.
Due to unpublished time constraints, (we had to be offstage by 11.15) Alfie had to run their two sets together with only a ten minute re-watering break in between. A large and very vocal set of friends from BJs joined the Wags for much dancing, percussion and general frivolities, making the night one not to forget. The other festival goers were equally as impressed with proceedings and bouyed by the support Alfie gave one of their best performances to date.
A cracking end to a cracking festival for the Alfie boys.....next year? ...Yes please... :-)
Paul
28th August 2015 - The Legion, Colne
Colne R&B Festival is "mental" in the best possible way. This "sleepy" Lancashire Mill Town which still maintains a fifties charm about it, is transformed for four days into a heaving mass of music enthusiast of all ages standing 8 deep on the pavements outside of Pubs, Clubs and Chip shops alike. The revenue alone from this event could probably triple the GDP of most small African Nations.
Anyway, our first of two gigs at this prestigious event was at the Legion, a traditional working mens club with stunning views across to the Lancashire moors. The room was large and designed for a good old knees up. The band on prior to us ,"Nick Bold and the Raging Sea", played an interesting mix of covers and original stuff and duly vacated the stage around 9.30, allowing us to set up and get playing by around 10.15.
The audience was made up of a mixture of Blues fans from the festival, some curious locals (complaining that 30p had been put on the price of a pint for the weekend) and the WAGS and friends...hurrah!
Alfie played a hugely changed first set to appease the R&B contingent and Boom Boom then Mean Town Blues got the evening off to a fine start. Around song 10, Riot in Cell Block Number 9, Paul (the guitarist) had his second amp failure in two gigs, resulting in the second half of the song being a largely drum and bass affair. A quick trip to the car park and a replacement amp was rapidly installed and the band rocked on!
Both sets went down very well with the Colne R&B contingent and locals alike, so much so that we were booked for another gig at the end of January 2016......excellent!
Paul
Anyway, our first of two gigs at this prestigious event was at the Legion, a traditional working mens club with stunning views across to the Lancashire moors. The room was large and designed for a good old knees up. The band on prior to us ,"Nick Bold and the Raging Sea", played an interesting mix of covers and original stuff and duly vacated the stage around 9.30, allowing us to set up and get playing by around 10.15.
The audience was made up of a mixture of Blues fans from the festival, some curious locals (complaining that 30p had been put on the price of a pint for the weekend) and the WAGS and friends...hurrah!
Alfie played a hugely changed first set to appease the R&B contingent and Boom Boom then Mean Town Blues got the evening off to a fine start. Around song 10, Riot in Cell Block Number 9, Paul (the guitarist) had his second amp failure in two gigs, resulting in the second half of the song being a largely drum and bass affair. A quick trip to the car park and a replacement amp was rapidly installed and the band rocked on!
Both sets went down very well with the Colne R&B contingent and locals alike, so much so that we were booked for another gig at the end of January 2016......excellent!
Paul
22nd August 2015 - The Old Function Room, Darwen
Maxine, the incredibly helpful and understanding Landlady (see later) of this establishment, has been plagued by a knob of a neighbour who has single-handedly threatened the future of live music at this great venue. This ultimately results in bands having to be finished playing by 11pm. Which is great for the bands (early finish) but not great for the future of live music.
Anyway, Alfie set up in the relatively tight playing area to play into a nice large open room.
Around four songs into set one and the fun and games started as the guitar amp decided to "turn up its toes" very noisily. A short break later and a patched up guitar sound got us to the end of the set. A check of the guitar amp in the interval suggested it may have been a dodgy cable so it was re-instated for set two..... mistake...
Set two kicked off nicely but a couple of songs in and it was deja vu, but this time a much quicker fix and we were up and running and rocking eventually completing our sets at exactly 11pm.....especially for the knob head across the road.
A trying night but we got there in the end.... not exactly as planned, but we got there.
The Old Function Room is a great venue, Maxine is a great Landlady....keep music live!
Paul
Anyway, Alfie set up in the relatively tight playing area to play into a nice large open room.
Around four songs into set one and the fun and games started as the guitar amp decided to "turn up its toes" very noisily. A short break later and a patched up guitar sound got us to the end of the set. A check of the guitar amp in the interval suggested it may have been a dodgy cable so it was re-instated for set two..... mistake...
Set two kicked off nicely but a couple of songs in and it was deja vu, but this time a much quicker fix and we were up and running and rocking eventually completing our sets at exactly 11pm.....especially for the knob head across the road.
A trying night but we got there in the end.... not exactly as planned, but we got there.
The Old Function Room is a great venue, Maxine is a great Landlady....keep music live!
Paul
15th August 2015 - The Jolly Nailor, Atherton
Our second visit to Landlady Nicola's wonderful music room in the Jolly Nailor in the middle of Atherton. A great stage set up with loads of room is most conducive to a great sound and a great performance.....and thus it proved.
Starting a little later than normal for Alfie, a good attendance meant a good atmosphere as we worked our way through the usual first set which was received with much applause and some bawdy whistling!
Set two also went down very well, as ever, with Mustang Sally once again proving a very popular choice for dancers and leg jigglers alike.
At the end of the evening Nicola, the Landlady, was once again very complimentary and is looking forward to our return in a couple of Month's time....and strangely enough, so are we!
Paul
Starting a little later than normal for Alfie, a good attendance meant a good atmosphere as we worked our way through the usual first set which was received with much applause and some bawdy whistling!
Set two also went down very well, as ever, with Mustang Sally once again proving a very popular choice for dancers and leg jigglers alike.
At the end of the evening Nicola, the Landlady, was once again very complimentary and is looking forward to our return in a couple of Month's time....and strangely enough, so are we!
Paul
1st August 2015 - The Heron, Kendal
This was Alfie's second visit to the Heron in the leafy suburbs of Kendal. Terry the Landlord made us most welcome as we set up in the rather spacious "stage" area.
The pub was busier than on our last visit and as ever, these days, set one was very well received. Alfie's second set spawned lots of dancing with associated whooping, it was an interesting and very enthusiastic audience tonight!
The closeness of the venue to neighbouring houses meant that Alfie had to wrap it up by 11.15, despite calls for 'More".
Great venue, even with the lengthy but easy drive. Alfie are back in the Heron again next February, depite Terry and Paul jiggling diaries (not a great spectacle), commitments on both sides made this the earliest date possible. Looking forward to it already though :-).
Paul
The pub was busier than on our last visit and as ever, these days, set one was very well received. Alfie's second set spawned lots of dancing with associated whooping, it was an interesting and very enthusiastic audience tonight!
The closeness of the venue to neighbouring houses meant that Alfie had to wrap it up by 11.15, despite calls for 'More".
Great venue, even with the lengthy but easy drive. Alfie are back in the Heron again next February, depite Terry and Paul jiggling diaries (not a great spectacle), commitments on both sides made this the earliest date possible. Looking forward to it already though :-).
Paul
26th July 2015 - Avenham Park, Preston
"Singing in the Rain" was the underlying theme as Alfie performed outside for an hour or so on a rain sodden afternoon in Avenham Park Preston. The council organised event, "Preston's Big Pedal", was to promote safe cycling. Many stalls were there, including the Police and Fire Brigade....there was even a funfair....and lots and lots of rain.
The stage and PA set up was very good and in no time at all we were up and playing. There were a few enthusiastic bedraggled passers by who stopped and egged us on. A couple of Police horses joined us later in the set for a bit of equine synchronised sidestepping ....never played to dancing horses before....Gorillas yes....but horses....naaaay!
A very enjoyable hour for the band and for the WAGS, who, as ever, supported us enthusiastically, running around like big kids with a new pair of wellies. The weather is indeed what you make it!
Perversely enough, as we packed up the rain stopped and a slightly apologetic sun gave us a quick wink before the clouds closed once again mustering another deluge for later in the evening. Never has playing Summer Time Blues felt more apt!
Maybe next year eh?
Paul
The stage and PA set up was very good and in no time at all we were up and playing. There were a few enthusiastic bedraggled passers by who stopped and egged us on. A couple of Police horses joined us later in the set for a bit of equine synchronised sidestepping ....never played to dancing horses before....Gorillas yes....but horses....naaaay!
A very enjoyable hour for the band and for the WAGS, who, as ever, supported us enthusiastically, running around like big kids with a new pair of wellies. The weather is indeed what you make it!
Perversely enough, as we packed up the rain stopped and a slightly apologetic sun gave us a quick wink before the clouds closed once again mustering another deluge for later in the evening. Never has playing Summer Time Blues felt more apt!
Maybe next year eh?
Paul
25th July 2015 - The Old Black Bull, Preston
Great to be back "playing at home" in the Old Black Bull in Preston on a relatively quiet and chilly summer evening.
The pub was busy by the time Alfie ran through their usual first set of familiar songs from the 60s, 70's and 80s. This was well received by the growing audience who were inadvertently foot tapping their way to the break.
Set two was equally well received as the band worked their way to the usual encore for another great night "at home"!
Alfie are back here in October and the Landlord secured us for four further gigs in 2016....result all round!
Happy days.
Paul
The pub was busy by the time Alfie ran through their usual first set of familiar songs from the 60s, 70's and 80s. This was well received by the growing audience who were inadvertently foot tapping their way to the break.
Set two was equally well received as the band worked their way to the usual encore for another great night "at home"!
Alfie are back here in October and the Landlord secured us for four further gigs in 2016....result all round!
Happy days.
Paul
11th July - The Wellington, Ashton
After 5 weeks away from the circuit, it was great to be back playing at the Wellington in Ashton, Preston. The pub has had a bit of a refurbishment since we were last there and the bands now play in a fairly small restricted area just outside the ladies toilet.
So forsaking monitors and the guitar pedal board, we ripped straight into our usual set one, which lacked a little vibe and wah wah, but was quite refreshing all the same. The audience were once again enthusiastic and much jigging and dancing ensued.
The second set was equally well received, especially by a very pleasant bearded bloke in a leather waistcoat, who danced his way through both sets with the enthusiasm of baby in a titty factory. The lack of co-ordination between the top half of his body and the bottom was science at its most baffling....never mind "how can a bumble bee fly"..."how come this guy hasn't fallen over....several times?'" Apparently Scotty, "you canna change the laws of physics Captain" just aint true!
Wrapping up the night with the usual "Hard to Handle" encore and a quick gear breakdown meant we were off on our various journey's home by 12.15.... a relatively early night and a great welcome back to "living the dream"....
Paul
So forsaking monitors and the guitar pedal board, we ripped straight into our usual set one, which lacked a little vibe and wah wah, but was quite refreshing all the same. The audience were once again enthusiastic and much jigging and dancing ensued.
The second set was equally well received, especially by a very pleasant bearded bloke in a leather waistcoat, who danced his way through both sets with the enthusiasm of baby in a titty factory. The lack of co-ordination between the top half of his body and the bottom was science at its most baffling....never mind "how can a bumble bee fly"..."how come this guy hasn't fallen over....several times?'" Apparently Scotty, "you canna change the laws of physics Captain" just aint true!
Wrapping up the night with the usual "Hard to Handle" encore and a quick gear breakdown meant we were off on our various journey's home by 12.15.... a relatively early night and a great welcome back to "living the dream"....
Paul
6th June - The Jolly Nailor, Atherton
Landlady Nicola and her team have recently taken on this venue and boy is it special! A dedicated room for the bands to play, with a larger than average stage and a great feel to the place are icing on the cake.
It was Champions League final night, but because of the separate room we could set up and sound check without interrupting people's evening....brilliant.
With Davey, over from the USA, helping us refine the sound mix, Alfie powered through the first set to an enthusiastic and vocal audience. Set two was even more raucous and lots of dancing and leg wobbling ensued.
This was a great gig, buoyed by the superb atmoshere. Alfie were pretty much at the top of their game....Nicola the landlady was very happy too, posting " Just wanted to say a huge thank you guys from all of us at the Jolly Nailor. Cracking night! X". Thanks Nicola....see you guys on August 15th!
Paul
It was Champions League final night, but because of the separate room we could set up and sound check without interrupting people's evening....brilliant.
With Davey, over from the USA, helping us refine the sound mix, Alfie powered through the first set to an enthusiastic and vocal audience. Set two was even more raucous and lots of dancing and leg wobbling ensued.
This was a great gig, buoyed by the superb atmoshere. Alfie were pretty much at the top of their game....Nicola the landlady was very happy too, posting " Just wanted to say a huge thank you guys from all of us at the Jolly Nailor. Cracking night! X". Thanks Nicola....see you guys on August 15th!
Paul
5th June - The Polished Knob, Todmorden
Alfie's first visit into Yorkshire and what a great and unusual venue with a great name, The Polished Knob..... "fnar fnar"!
The stage was a good size and we were surrounded by excellent gear from Marshall, Fender, Hiwatt, Ashdown etc etc. There was a Gibson Les Paul Std and Fender Strat hanging on the wall...so of course we all felt at home....this really is a "Musos" pub!
The male dominated audience were clearly not "pint shy" and a few carried their eccentricities more overtly than others. One chap in particular caught our eye, bedecked in black with a stetson, cowboy boots and a full set of spurs (he also carried a black brief case....but we weren't entirely sure how that contributed to the overall look)..but well played "pardner"....and "Yee hah" could the man dance....brilliant! Dancing spurs is an absolute first for Alfie!
Both sets went down very well and we threw in a couple of extra blues / rock numbers to contribute to "stereotyping" the audience who actually got more lively when we played Tainted Love and 1000 Dances....it must be something in the beer.
A great night followed by a long drive home over the border....perhaps next time we visit can use some of the "indigenous" panoply of gear on show.... one of the bar staff seemed a little put out that we hadn't "given it a go"....great stuff!
Paul
The stage was a good size and we were surrounded by excellent gear from Marshall, Fender, Hiwatt, Ashdown etc etc. There was a Gibson Les Paul Std and Fender Strat hanging on the wall...so of course we all felt at home....this really is a "Musos" pub!
The male dominated audience were clearly not "pint shy" and a few carried their eccentricities more overtly than others. One chap in particular caught our eye, bedecked in black with a stetson, cowboy boots and a full set of spurs (he also carried a black brief case....but we weren't entirely sure how that contributed to the overall look)..but well played "pardner"....and "Yee hah" could the man dance....brilliant! Dancing spurs is an absolute first for Alfie!
Both sets went down very well and we threw in a couple of extra blues / rock numbers to contribute to "stereotyping" the audience who actually got more lively when we played Tainted Love and 1000 Dances....it must be something in the beer.
A great night followed by a long drive home over the border....perhaps next time we visit can use some of the "indigenous" panoply of gear on show.... one of the bar staff seemed a little put out that we hadn't "given it a go"....great stuff!
Paul
29th May - Brian & Carole's Wedding, Clitheroe Castle, Clitheroe
"So mote it be" .... the response to the High Priestess's call at a pagan wedding.... a sword, a dagger, a wine filled chalice and yes....a broomstick! This was the wedding ceremony to eclipse any other, especially when held in the windy wilds of the castle keep in Clitheroe!
The guests were mainly made up of "muso's" and the musically educated elite from BJ's Blues club in Chorley...so no pressure for Alfie eh?
A tightly cramped stage come dancefloor made manoeuvring between pedals a treat for Paul on guitar and lots of glass and a tiled floor meant a lengthy soundcheck and several sonic compromises.
But no need to worry, this rowdy lot were up and dancing from song one and continued all the way through both sets until the strains of Too Hot To handle and Hush died into the rather chilling summer night air!
Carole and Brian had a great night apparently , you can see them watching the band in the photo above, catching a breather during an exhausting but wonderful day!
A brilliant night, it really is great to play to a fully engaged appreciative and fully dance enabled audience.... "So mote it be"!
Paul
The guests were mainly made up of "muso's" and the musically educated elite from BJ's Blues club in Chorley...so no pressure for Alfie eh?
A tightly cramped stage come dancefloor made manoeuvring between pedals a treat for Paul on guitar and lots of glass and a tiled floor meant a lengthy soundcheck and several sonic compromises.
But no need to worry, this rowdy lot were up and dancing from song one and continued all the way through both sets until the strains of Too Hot To handle and Hush died into the rather chilling summer night air!
Carole and Brian had a great night apparently , you can see them watching the band in the photo above, catching a breather during an exhausting but wonderful day!
A brilliant night, it really is great to play to a fully engaged appreciative and fully dance enabled audience.... "So mote it be"!
Paul
23rd May - The Beaumont, Chorley
Alfie's second visit to the Beaumont and for this gig it was decided to replace Paul on guitar with a Salmon Pink Obelisk bearing a portrait of a Tudor Pin-Up and a rather fetching wall light! As a result, Alfie went down a storm and the SPO has been approached for possible "depping" duties going forward.
Alfie played their usual sets but introduced a new cover of the Animals "Please Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" which was presented in a form a little different to that played in rehearsal, but almost seamless nonetheless.
Towards the end of the evening, the UK's "open borders" policy payed dividends as a rather large Polish contingent decended upon the pub and added a very enthusiastic and vocal end to the night! Even after the encore, a heavily accented chant of "one more song" emanated from the throng, more reminiscent of Nuremberg than Glastonbury....but hey ho you take what you get in this game! :-)
This is a great venue, great Landlady and staff and very handy for Asda....what's not to like? We are looking forward to returning soon.
Paul
Alfie played their usual sets but introduced a new cover of the Animals "Please Don't Let Me Be Misunderstood" which was presented in a form a little different to that played in rehearsal, but almost seamless nonetheless.
Towards the end of the evening, the UK's "open borders" policy payed dividends as a rather large Polish contingent decended upon the pub and added a very enthusiastic and vocal end to the night! Even after the encore, a heavily accented chant of "one more song" emanated from the throng, more reminiscent of Nuremberg than Glastonbury....but hey ho you take what you get in this game! :-)
This is a great venue, great Landlady and staff and very handy for Asda....what's not to like? We are looking forward to returning soon.
Paul
9th May - The Heron, Kendal
The Heron is a large pub with a similarly large stage area in the middle of a housing estate in Kendal.
Alfie received a very friendly welcome from the stand in Landlord, Kev, hailing from Whitley Bay in the North East. The audience were equally friendly and very knowledgeable musically.
The usual sets were played and enjoyed with relish by the aforementioned audience and Landlord alike.
Whilst this was a pretty standard gig for Alfie, it was, as ever, very enjoyable and definitely worth the long drive up the M6. The trip back was extra good as we discovered that Costa Coffee was still open at Forton services....result or what?
Paul
Alfie received a very friendly welcome from the stand in Landlord, Kev, hailing from Whitley Bay in the North East. The audience were equally friendly and very knowledgeable musically.
The usual sets were played and enjoyed with relish by the aforementioned audience and Landlord alike.
Whilst this was a pretty standard gig for Alfie, it was, as ever, very enjoyable and definitely worth the long drive up the M6. The trip back was extra good as we discovered that Costa Coffee was still open at Forton services....result or what?
Paul
1st May - The Wheatsheaf, Preston
Gig number 75 for Alfie, and our 7th visit to the Wheatsheaf was a riot.....quite literally!
Our usual first set was well received with at least one member of the audience trying to join us on stage. What exactly she had in mind we will never know as Tony politely ushered her in the opposite direction...or "exit stage front" to us thespians!
We kicked off the second set as usual and we were about half way through before it all "kicked off" around the pool table. Some "out of towners" decided to spoil everyone's night in the most primeval neanderthal fashion. This was so out of character for this great town centre venue, our six previous visits showing this to be a very friendly place, great for live music.
So an enforced early finish means we will have to look forward to our next visit to allow "normal service" to be resumed.
Paul
Our usual first set was well received with at least one member of the audience trying to join us on stage. What exactly she had in mind we will never know as Tony politely ushered her in the opposite direction...or "exit stage front" to us thespians!
We kicked off the second set as usual and we were about half way through before it all "kicked off" around the pool table. Some "out of towners" decided to spoil everyone's night in the most primeval neanderthal fashion. This was so out of character for this great town centre venue, our six previous visits showing this to be a very friendly place, great for live music.
So an enforced early finish means we will have to look forward to our next visit to allow "normal service" to be resumed.
Paul
25th April - Old Black Bull, Preston
Alfie's 5th visit to the Old Black Bull and it was the usual riotous affair with a wonderful lively crowd, full and enthusiasm....and drink (of course)!
Plenty of dancing, even in the sound check, as the usual set's hit their mark. This is a great venue where everyone is there to enjoy themselves and that makes it double fun for the band. This is pretty much the perfect venue for a pub rock band!
The landlord was again impressed looking to book 5 gigs in 2016 in addition to the two remaining gigs we have there in 2015.
The Old Black Bull is definitely Alfie's "home ground"!
Paul
Plenty of dancing, even in the sound check, as the usual set's hit their mark. This is a great venue where everyone is there to enjoy themselves and that makes it double fun for the band. This is pretty much the perfect venue for a pub rock band!
The landlord was again impressed looking to book 5 gigs in 2016 in addition to the two remaining gigs we have there in 2015.
The Old Black Bull is definitely Alfie's "home ground"!
Paul
11th April - Rope and Anchor, Atherton
The Rope and Anchor has been newly refurbished and undoubtedly has the best Gents we have experienced in recent times. This is especially important when "the bog" invariably doubles as the changing room and a floor coated in day old stale piss can take the shine off your stage gear for those careless of hand.
Anyway, another enthusiastic audience in a very busy pub made for a great night of good old fashioned Alfie rock!
We made several new friends here in Atherton at least one of whom insisted on carrying on conversations from the bar area into the aforementioned Gents.....and back again!
A great venue and we are looking to secure a return booking, as suggested by the Manager, as soon as we can, but probably now not until 2016.....ho hum!
Paul
Anyway, another enthusiastic audience in a very busy pub made for a great night of good old fashioned Alfie rock!
We made several new friends here in Atherton at least one of whom insisted on carrying on conversations from the bar area into the aforementioned Gents.....and back again!
A great venue and we are looking to secure a return booking, as suggested by the Manager, as soon as we can, but probably now not until 2016.....ho hum!
Paul
4th April - The Black Horse Hotel, Chorley
A rockin' good night was to be had last night in Pall Mall......Chorley, as Alfie hit the stage as only the third (and best yet according to he Landlady) band to have played there in recent times. A tight stage, reminiscent of Prison Break at times, meant that the band had to get up close and personal once again and that is when "the Lynx effect" makes life as a pub rocker almost bearable!
The residue of a birthday party was in situ as we set up and did a sound check and a couple of kids, one who was only 2, proceeded to vent their tiny spleens on Ian's drum kit....and actually showed great promise!
Our usual set one went down very well with lots of singing along and jigging about....these guys clearly love a live band. A relatively short break of 20mins and we powered through a well appreciated second set and after a much "called for" encore, we wrapped it all up by 11pm for an early night by our usual standards.
A good little venue with a very enthusiastic Landlady, while the pub may be a little rough around the edges, the welcome wasn't and neither were the band!
Paul
The residue of a birthday party was in situ as we set up and did a sound check and a couple of kids, one who was only 2, proceeded to vent their tiny spleens on Ian's drum kit....and actually showed great promise!
Our usual set one went down very well with lots of singing along and jigging about....these guys clearly love a live band. A relatively short break of 20mins and we powered through a well appreciated second set and after a much "called for" encore, we wrapped it all up by 11pm for an early night by our usual standards.
A good little venue with a very enthusiastic Landlady, while the pub may be a little rough around the edges, the welcome wasn't and neither were the band!
Paul
26th March - Spire AGM, Ingol Golf Club, Preston
The Spire AGM at Ingol Golf Club and another charity gig for Alfie. Spire is a "not for profit charitable organisation providing support for adults with learning disabilities and their families living in Preston" and as Tony and Tracy both work for said organisation it was a pleasure to play at their AGM.
The AGM was attended by Spire workers and clients alike, and with free bacon butties and chips on offer, the night was set up to be a "good un", and so it tranSpired (see what I did there?)!
Alfie played a one hour dance set straight after the aforementioned butties and from the off the dance floor was awash with some serious "moves".....and so it continued until the strains of the last song faded into the appreciative throng.
Balloons and cupcakes were carried off home into the chilly but clear March night air! A special night for special people?..... absolutely! :-)
Paul
The AGM was attended by Spire workers and clients alike, and with free bacon butties and chips on offer, the night was set up to be a "good un", and so it tranSpired (see what I did there?)!
Alfie played a one hour dance set straight after the aforementioned butties and from the off the dance floor was awash with some serious "moves".....and so it continued until the strains of the last song faded into the appreciative throng.
Balloons and cupcakes were carried off home into the chilly but clear March night air! A special night for special people?..... absolutely! :-)
Paul
12th March - BJs Rock & Blues Club, The Minstrel, Chorley
Alfie's 70th gig found us back for the 3rd time at the prestigious BJs Rock in the Blues Club at the Minstrel in Chorley. Lucas and Heidi were their usual wonderful and enthusiastic selves making us feel incredibly welcome yet again. The weather outside may have been extremely inclement, but the "weather" inside this rather unique Blues Club environment was very warm indeed.
Alfie played a radically different set of sets on this visit, replacing 9 of their "normal" songs with some more in a bluesy rock vein. Two completely new songs were played for the first time, House is a Rockin' and So many Roads, both of which were very well received.
The audience at BJs is very special and it's great to perform to an audience who have actually come to watch the Band play and listen to the music. Both sets were as ever very well received with the "high energy" second set in particular, prompting lots of dancing!
Another excellent night at BJs and we can't wait to get back there again soon!
Paul
*footnote* Like all great Bluesmen, Lucas, BJs proprietor is predisposed to wearing Crocs. His passion was shared by other Blues greats like Lemon "Limpy" Jefferson, Harry "Hopalong" Ledbetter and Jerry "Gout" Hopkins! Rumour has it that SRV himself couldn't wait to shed those Snake Skin Cubans and slip on a comfy pair of brown leather Yukons .... Croc and Roll eh?
Review by Rosy Greer from Lancashire Blues Archive
The return of the North West band ‘Alfie Ibbotson’s Popular Beat Combo’, to BJ’s ‘Rock in the Blues’ Club at the Minstrel in Chorley, was a breath of fresh air. Having now established themselves as a competent covers band, with an extensive set list, they brought to the table a excellent mix of rhythm & blues covers, with a dash of soul. Fronting the band with an amazing voice – not unlike that of Paul Rogers from Free, was Tony Wardle on vocals and harmonica, with Paul Mason on guitar, Charlie Pearson on bass and hard hitting Ian Massey on drums.
Kicking off the evening a class compilation of Spencer Davis and Cream, then a brilliant take of the classic Robert Cray blues number ‘Don’t Touch Me’. Speeding up the tempo brought us soul with Magic Sam’s ‘I Just Want A little Bit’ and rock ‘n roll with SRV’s ‘The House Is A Rockin”. Getting into the ‘spirit’ of the evening was Robert Camille’s ‘I Got Loaded’ and some 12 bar blues at its best, with John Lee Hookers ‘Boom, Boom’, Tony gave us some class harp playing and vocals . Closing the first set the Rolling Stones, Chuck Berry, Johnny Winter and a great guitar solo from Paul on Joe Bonamassa’s ‘So Many Roads’. The final number was the Albert King classic ‘The Hunter’.
The second set brought us some classic 60’s and 70’s tracks from Free, Who, Kinks, Rolling Stones, Spencer Davies, Beatles, Everly Brothers, and Gloria Jones. The evening was rounded off with a touch of soul , with Smokey Robinson’s ‘Get Ready’- with a great ‘full on’ bass line from Charlie and excellent drum fills from Ian. The final number of the set was Wilson Pickett’s ‘Land Of A Thousand Dances’ with well deserved encore of Deep Purple’s ‘Hush’.
Tony’s voice takes centre stage and as an ex pro he certainly has that little extra. The whole band gel well together and have a great sound, it was also good to hear more blues takes in the set. A high standard performance from a ‘class’ band and I’m sure we’ll see them back at BJ’s next year.
*Rosy Greer – Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer**www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive <http://www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive>*
Alfie played a radically different set of sets on this visit, replacing 9 of their "normal" songs with some more in a bluesy rock vein. Two completely new songs were played for the first time, House is a Rockin' and So many Roads, both of which were very well received.
The audience at BJs is very special and it's great to perform to an audience who have actually come to watch the Band play and listen to the music. Both sets were as ever very well received with the "high energy" second set in particular, prompting lots of dancing!
Another excellent night at BJs and we can't wait to get back there again soon!
Paul
*footnote* Like all great Bluesmen, Lucas, BJs proprietor is predisposed to wearing Crocs. His passion was shared by other Blues greats like Lemon "Limpy" Jefferson, Harry "Hopalong" Ledbetter and Jerry "Gout" Hopkins! Rumour has it that SRV himself couldn't wait to shed those Snake Skin Cubans and slip on a comfy pair of brown leather Yukons .... Croc and Roll eh?
Review by Rosy Greer from Lancashire Blues Archive
The return of the North West band ‘Alfie Ibbotson’s Popular Beat Combo’, to BJ’s ‘Rock in the Blues’ Club at the Minstrel in Chorley, was a breath of fresh air. Having now established themselves as a competent covers band, with an extensive set list, they brought to the table a excellent mix of rhythm & blues covers, with a dash of soul. Fronting the band with an amazing voice – not unlike that of Paul Rogers from Free, was Tony Wardle on vocals and harmonica, with Paul Mason on guitar, Charlie Pearson on bass and hard hitting Ian Massey on drums.
Kicking off the evening a class compilation of Spencer Davis and Cream, then a brilliant take of the classic Robert Cray blues number ‘Don’t Touch Me’. Speeding up the tempo brought us soul with Magic Sam’s ‘I Just Want A little Bit’ and rock ‘n roll with SRV’s ‘The House Is A Rockin”. Getting into the ‘spirit’ of the evening was Robert Camille’s ‘I Got Loaded’ and some 12 bar blues at its best, with John Lee Hookers ‘Boom, Boom’, Tony gave us some class harp playing and vocals . Closing the first set the Rolling Stones, Chuck Berry, Johnny Winter and a great guitar solo from Paul on Joe Bonamassa’s ‘So Many Roads’. The final number was the Albert King classic ‘The Hunter’.
The second set brought us some classic 60’s and 70’s tracks from Free, Who, Kinks, Rolling Stones, Spencer Davies, Beatles, Everly Brothers, and Gloria Jones. The evening was rounded off with a touch of soul , with Smokey Robinson’s ‘Get Ready’- with a great ‘full on’ bass line from Charlie and excellent drum fills from Ian. The final number of the set was Wilson Pickett’s ‘Land Of A Thousand Dances’ with well deserved encore of Deep Purple’s ‘Hush’.
Tony’s voice takes centre stage and as an ex pro he certainly has that little extra. The whole band gel well together and have a great sound, it was also good to hear more blues takes in the set. A high standard performance from a ‘class’ band and I’m sure we’ll see them back at BJ’s next year.
*Rosy Greer – Lancashire Blues Archive and Independent Reviewer**www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive <http://www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive>*
8th March - The Jonny Todd, Kirkby
Alfie's third visit to The Jonny Todd and Tom and Kym are certainly making this place better and better. You can now get some great food here, especially useful when you are doing a "teatime" gig as we were with this one.
Slotted in between the FA cup quarter finals on the big screen TV's and the mid evening Karaoke session, Alfie produced a solid first set which was very well received by Scousers of all ages.
One fella, who bore an unnerving resemblance to King George V but in a flat cap, was particularly keen on the Bowie songs. "His Majesty" and his "subjects"....and Jack Russell terrier, "got into" the whole Alfie experience, which always makes life much easier for the Band.
"The King" had to leave half way through set two, but his "loyal subjects" stayed for the duration and kept up their enthusiastic appreciation until the bitter end.
The sounds of the Alfie encore had barely faded into the evening before the Scouse Neil Diamond regaled us with a relatively convincing version of Cracklin' Rosie.... or was it Sweet Caroline?, alas only he will know!
A nice early finish and a drive home via Charnock Richard Services for a "Cheeky Coffee".....now that's rock and roll isn't it?
Paul
Slotted in between the FA cup quarter finals on the big screen TV's and the mid evening Karaoke session, Alfie produced a solid first set which was very well received by Scousers of all ages.
One fella, who bore an unnerving resemblance to King George V but in a flat cap, was particularly keen on the Bowie songs. "His Majesty" and his "subjects"....and Jack Russell terrier, "got into" the whole Alfie experience, which always makes life much easier for the Band.
"The King" had to leave half way through set two, but his "loyal subjects" stayed for the duration and kept up their enthusiastic appreciation until the bitter end.
The sounds of the Alfie encore had barely faded into the evening before the Scouse Neil Diamond regaled us with a relatively convincing version of Cracklin' Rosie.... or was it Sweet Caroline?, alas only he will know!
A nice early finish and a drive home via Charnock Richard Services for a "Cheeky Coffee".....now that's rock and roll isn't it?
Paul
27th February - The Bowling Green, Horwich
Nicola, Jason and Gary were "mine hosts" at this cracking little venue in Horwich. Packed to the rafters, especially for a Friday night, the place was jumping!
A van breakdown meant that the PA arrived quite a while after the rest of the band, prompting some frantic activity in the set up, but Alfie were ready to rock at the allotted time.
The Bowling Green is an odd shape for a band to set up in, at one point I was convinced I could hear the "voice of God" asking me about my guitar, until I realised it was a bloke from Bolton peering through a viewing hatch to the Band's left and rear....I'm sure he was a God to someone, though not necessarily me!
Our usual set 1 prompted lots of singing and associated jigging about as we cruised to the interval. Set 2 was similarly enthusiastically welcomed but as there was a noise enforcement requirement to finish by 11.30 dead (or in our case dead on our feet....it had been a stressful day after all :-) ) we had no time for an encore despite much shouting and encouragement from the Horwich throng. Maybe next time.......speaking of which...
......the bad news is that Nicola et al are leaving the Bowling Green in a couple of weeks.....the good news is they are moving to the Jolly Nailor in Atherton.....and Alfie are already booked in for three gigs there during the rest of 2015....result or what? We can't wait!
Paul
A van breakdown meant that the PA arrived quite a while after the rest of the band, prompting some frantic activity in the set up, but Alfie were ready to rock at the allotted time.
The Bowling Green is an odd shape for a band to set up in, at one point I was convinced I could hear the "voice of God" asking me about my guitar, until I realised it was a bloke from Bolton peering through a viewing hatch to the Band's left and rear....I'm sure he was a God to someone, though not necessarily me!
Our usual set 1 prompted lots of singing and associated jigging about as we cruised to the interval. Set 2 was similarly enthusiastically welcomed but as there was a noise enforcement requirement to finish by 11.30 dead (or in our case dead on our feet....it had been a stressful day after all :-) ) we had no time for an encore despite much shouting and encouragement from the Horwich throng. Maybe next time.......speaking of which...
......the bad news is that Nicola et al are leaving the Bowling Green in a couple of weeks.....the good news is they are moving to the Jolly Nailor in Atherton.....and Alfie are already booked in for three gigs there during the rest of 2015....result or what? We can't wait!
Paul
14th February - Ale Emporium, Preston
Valentine's Night at a real ale pub with a band playing would seem like a good BBB.... Bloke / Bird Balance....real ale for the Blokes and Alfie for the Birds! PC was never my strong point.....anyway....
Alfie played a slightly revised first set to "Bloke up" the music for set one, before playing a "Birdtastic" dance based second set! Enthusiasm abounded from a table of lovely people who had come to see us again following our gig at the Black Bull earlier in the Month and they performed rhythm duties particularly well with tambourines and maracas alike.
The remaining real ale crowd, with their half pint glasses (always a give away), applauded politely as they sipped their half of Magpie or Rat or whatever, nodding with appreciation with each slurp....at either the beer ....or the band or perhaps even both !
The superduper LED stage lights played havoc with the band due to their rather fast refresh rate which made accurate fretting an exciting experience especially when teetering on the edge of a combination of epilepsy and snow blindness. Professional as ever though, Alfie powered through and rounded the show off with the usual encore of Hard to Handle.
Yet another good night musically, but with the venue reneging on the agreed fee it left us feeling like we had been dumped.....and on Valentine's Night.....perhaps Bitter Suite was a better name for the venue after all. :-)
Paul
Alfie played a slightly revised first set to "Bloke up" the music for set one, before playing a "Birdtastic" dance based second set! Enthusiasm abounded from a table of lovely people who had come to see us again following our gig at the Black Bull earlier in the Month and they performed rhythm duties particularly well with tambourines and maracas alike.
The remaining real ale crowd, with their half pint glasses (always a give away), applauded politely as they sipped their half of Magpie or Rat or whatever, nodding with appreciation with each slurp....at either the beer ....or the band or perhaps even both !
The superduper LED stage lights played havoc with the band due to their rather fast refresh rate which made accurate fretting an exciting experience especially when teetering on the edge of a combination of epilepsy and snow blindness. Professional as ever though, Alfie powered through and rounded the show off with the usual encore of Hard to Handle.
Yet another good night musically, but with the venue reneging on the agreed fee it left us feeling like we had been dumped.....and on Valentine's Night.....perhaps Bitter Suite was a better name for the venue after all. :-)
Paul
11th February - The Welcome Inn, Whitefield
The Welcome Inn has a large stage area which is almost as big as the viewing area, subsequently, once the "Coach Trip" (see later) had arrived some of the audience decamped "on stage" between the backline and the PA. As they were seated on Charlie's side of the stage, they were treated to a frighteningly up close and personal view of Charlie's rock lunges and Cheshire Cat grin...clearly these Whitefield folk are made of stern stuff.
Ten minutes before "kick off" the pub was relatively quiet and I repaired to the dressing room aka the Gents, for a final pee and a change of shirt. On emerging from said room the pub was "heaving", standing two deep at the bar, leading me to believe that I had either nodded off at the urinal or that the Gents had Interstellar (the movie) properties. Both theories proved to be wrong as one of the locals informed me that regulars usually arrive a few minutes before the band goes on, a bit like a Coach Trip arriving at a Service Station.
Alfie amended their usual set lists for this gig to take into account the Blues / Rock feel of this venue, dusting off old numbers like Fire and Water, Riot in Cell Block Number 9 and Don't Touch Me Baby. The Audience was enthusiastic and generous, part of the gig fee is made up of an audience whip round....thank you the kind folk of Whitefield.
Problems with neighbours (Boooo!) meant we had to finish bang on eleven o"clock, which meant a relatively early night for the band, but still a long drive home. A good night's work in a great venue, roll on the next time!
Paul
Ten minutes before "kick off" the pub was relatively quiet and I repaired to the dressing room aka the Gents, for a final pee and a change of shirt. On emerging from said room the pub was "heaving", standing two deep at the bar, leading me to believe that I had either nodded off at the urinal or that the Gents had Interstellar (the movie) properties. Both theories proved to be wrong as one of the locals informed me that regulars usually arrive a few minutes before the band goes on, a bit like a Coach Trip arriving at a Service Station.
Alfie amended their usual set lists for this gig to take into account the Blues / Rock feel of this venue, dusting off old numbers like Fire and Water, Riot in Cell Block Number 9 and Don't Touch Me Baby. The Audience was enthusiastic and generous, part of the gig fee is made up of an audience whip round....thank you the kind folk of Whitefield.
Problems with neighbours (Boooo!) meant we had to finish bang on eleven o"clock, which meant a relatively early night for the band, but still a long drive home. A good night's work in a great venue, roll on the next time!
Paul
31st January - The Old Black Bull, Preston
Alfie back at the Black Bull and "playing at home"! The usual enthusiastic city centre crowd was in attendance and much dancing was enjoyed.
Tony did his best to "Wklipedia" the crowd into submission by explaining, between songs, the origins / original artist of the forthcoming audio delights. With that in mind, the audience eventually left the venue, not only sonically delighted but with a little more knowledge....double whammysville eh?
The first set want down very well as usual and a smashin' fella called Roy from the band Recycled Teenagers introduced himself at the interval and we had a good chat .....he even gave us a mention on NW Bands saying....
"If I have a night off and a night out I always try to drop in on some unexpecting band and last night was a night when I managed to stop at 3 pubs to see some acts that I've not seen before.
I didn't stay long at the first 2 venues and I'm mighty glad about that too as I happened to stop in at The Old Black Bull in Preston and caught Alfie Ibbotsons Popular Beat Combo.
While they don't play the type of stuff I normally get excited about there was no doubting the quality of their musicianship and not to mention the stunning sound.
Had a good chat with the guys in the interval and again at the end. These guys are well worth a watch and again the sound was as good as I've heard anywhere, with or without a sound engineer...
Make some time and see them yourselves and say hello to this thoroughly nice bunch of guys... "
Thanks Roy...... the second set had everyone singing and dancing and calling for more....even after the encore! Unusually for Alfie all the WAGs deserted the band for more exciting times (impossible btw), consequently no photographs were taken at the gig.... so the next best thing is a picture of a half eaten bag of peanuts on my guitar....why not eh?
Paul
Tony did his best to "Wklipedia" the crowd into submission by explaining, between songs, the origins / original artist of the forthcoming audio delights. With that in mind, the audience eventually left the venue, not only sonically delighted but with a little more knowledge....double whammysville eh?
The first set want down very well as usual and a smashin' fella called Roy from the band Recycled Teenagers introduced himself at the interval and we had a good chat .....he even gave us a mention on NW Bands saying....
"If I have a night off and a night out I always try to drop in on some unexpecting band and last night was a night when I managed to stop at 3 pubs to see some acts that I've not seen before.
I didn't stay long at the first 2 venues and I'm mighty glad about that too as I happened to stop in at The Old Black Bull in Preston and caught Alfie Ibbotsons Popular Beat Combo.
While they don't play the type of stuff I normally get excited about there was no doubting the quality of their musicianship and not to mention the stunning sound.
Had a good chat with the guys in the interval and again at the end. These guys are well worth a watch and again the sound was as good as I've heard anywhere, with or without a sound engineer...
Make some time and see them yourselves and say hello to this thoroughly nice bunch of guys... "
Thanks Roy...... the second set had everyone singing and dancing and calling for more....even after the encore! Unusually for Alfie all the WAGs deserted the band for more exciting times (impossible btw), consequently no photographs were taken at the gig.... so the next best thing is a picture of a half eaten bag of peanuts on my guitar....why not eh?
Paul
30th January - The Wheatsheaf, Preston
After almost a month off, Alfie got back on the road to rock stardom ....it's a very very long road....and this "lay-by" was the Wheatsheaf in Preston. A relatively quiet night, cold wet and windy...and that was just Charlie....but we "rocked it up" anyway....
Dusting off the sets we used for our New Years Eve adventure we unleashed the "Shock and Awe" that is Alfie on Preston's chosen few to a very warm reception.
Nothing exceptional at the gig tonight, but it was good to get back on the circuit and flex the old rock muscles again.
Paul
Dusting off the sets we used for our New Years Eve adventure we unleashed the "Shock and Awe" that is Alfie on Preston's chosen few to a very warm reception.
Nothing exceptional at the gig tonight, but it was good to get back on the circuit and flex the old rock muscles again.
Paul
31st December - Lane Ends, Preston
HAPPY NEW YEAR.... partying at the Lane Ends in Preston was a fantastic way to introduce us all to 2015...the place rocked....and so did "Alfie'.
A ticket only "do", which was sold out, ensured a full house "full" of various tipples to individual likings. The Manager and staff were once again friendly and ready for the busy night ahead.
Playing in a different "stage area" than last time we played here, Alfie played two slightly amended sets to take into account the festivities ahead and to allow for maximum dancing capability. The highlight of set one, was Tony enthusiastically inviting us to "Keep on Running" as a lady on crutches hobbled across the dance floor on her way to the bar....tact and timing never made it south of the Tyne apparently!
Whilst set one had more than it's fair share of dancers and "seat jiggers", set two was full on 'dancetastic' with some of the lager fuelled moves bordering on the dangerous on such a crowded floor. As midnight approached, Land of a Thousand Dances heralded the end of the set and induced much baying for more. The 'Scunner Mackem' then, with 'Stalinesque' abandon, sidestepped the scheduled encore of Delilah for the regular Hard to Handle and and the party danced to a close just before midnight.
Televisions were switched on, the entire pub counted down.... and amid much "whoopin" and "a hollerin" 2015 made its entrance to much merriment and good humour....a portent for 2015 one hopes.
Alfie played 38 gigs in 2014, hopefully more in 2015, and we are looking forward to seeing you all in the year ahead....
Paul
A ticket only "do", which was sold out, ensured a full house "full" of various tipples to individual likings. The Manager and staff were once again friendly and ready for the busy night ahead.
Playing in a different "stage area" than last time we played here, Alfie played two slightly amended sets to take into account the festivities ahead and to allow for maximum dancing capability. The highlight of set one, was Tony enthusiastically inviting us to "Keep on Running" as a lady on crutches hobbled across the dance floor on her way to the bar....tact and timing never made it south of the Tyne apparently!
Whilst set one had more than it's fair share of dancers and "seat jiggers", set two was full on 'dancetastic' with some of the lager fuelled moves bordering on the dangerous on such a crowded floor. As midnight approached, Land of a Thousand Dances heralded the end of the set and induced much baying for more. The 'Scunner Mackem' then, with 'Stalinesque' abandon, sidestepped the scheduled encore of Delilah for the regular Hard to Handle and and the party danced to a close just before midnight.
Televisions were switched on, the entire pub counted down.... and amid much "whoopin" and "a hollerin" 2015 made its entrance to much merriment and good humour....a portent for 2015 one hopes.
Alfie played 38 gigs in 2014, hopefully more in 2015, and we are looking forward to seeing you all in the year ahead....
Paul
13th December - Burnley Cricket Club, Ken's 60th
Burnley Cricket Club nestles in the Shadow of Turf Moor and brings a new meaning to the term "a tired venue"....man, this place was exhausted! The function room was small but ....well...functional and Gillian and the team had "decced" it out nicely for her father Ken's 60th Birthday party.
An early start to the first set got Alfie up and rockin' with a specially tailored set of set lists. The waft of "buffet" meant that the last couple of songs exceeded recommended bpm, but we all know that "pork pie" is a very seductive mistress.
The second set kicked off with some band members labouring with gluttony induced indigestion. No such problem for the more restrained party goers who were up and dancing and providing incidental percussion with tambourines and castanets, most with the timing accuracy of a one man band falling down a flight of stairs.
The night was rounded off with the "community singing" of Land of 1000 Dances and we all headed off into a chilly Burnley night. Job well done? Well Ken thought so....and that's all that counts.
Paul
An early start to the first set got Alfie up and rockin' with a specially tailored set of set lists. The waft of "buffet" meant that the last couple of songs exceeded recommended bpm, but we all know that "pork pie" is a very seductive mistress.
The second set kicked off with some band members labouring with gluttony induced indigestion. No such problem for the more restrained party goers who were up and dancing and providing incidental percussion with tambourines and castanets, most with the timing accuracy of a one man band falling down a flight of stairs.
The night was rounded off with the "community singing" of Land of 1000 Dances and we all headed off into a chilly Burnley night. Job well done? Well Ken thought so....and that's all that counts.
Paul
12th December - The Hindley Arms, Hindley, Wigan
The Hindley Arms was apparently refurbished in August 2014 and now has a big stage area with the performers being "live streamed" to the flat screen TV's scattered around the pub ...... very posh!
The weather was frosty and so was the landlady, who made us feel as welcome as a "follow through" in a jacuzzi. Clearly assuming, incorrectly, that she was higher up the "pub rock" food chain than the band, this little ball of Christmas vitriol gave a cosmic balance to the whole premise of Christmas cheer.
A good crowd gave the first set a warm reception with one little old chap throwing some interesting moves clearly derived from last night's charades session at the old peoples home.
The second set got an even warmer reception with jumping and jiving in abundance and we wrapped it up at midnight ready for the icy drive home.
NB In the foreground of the picture is a pint glass..... Charlie....it's time you "came out" mate! :-)
Paul
The weather was frosty and so was the landlady, who made us feel as welcome as a "follow through" in a jacuzzi. Clearly assuming, incorrectly, that she was higher up the "pub rock" food chain than the band, this little ball of Christmas vitriol gave a cosmic balance to the whole premise of Christmas cheer.
A good crowd gave the first set a warm reception with one little old chap throwing some interesting moves clearly derived from last night's charades session at the old peoples home.
The second set got an even warmer reception with jumping and jiving in abundance and we wrapped it up at midnight ready for the icy drive home.
NB In the foreground of the picture is a pint glass..... Charlie....it's time you "came out" mate! :-)
Paul
15th November - The Beaumont, Chorley
The Beaumont is a great family pub just north of Chorley, the stage area was small but the sound was great (apparently)!
A 50th birthday party was in full swing, with a fabulous saliva inducing buffet which tantalised the band from afar. Tony had his own bunch of admirers in attendance tonight for an impromptu "old job" leaving do. All in all a very busy and lively setting for some good old rock music.
An extended first set rocked along nicely which the enthusiastic audience approved of...well...enthusiastically!
An extended second set, which included two new Beatles numbers, Twist and Shout and I Saw Her Standing There, went down particularly well and tested the Band's ability to remember simple stuff....like "when does this song actually finish!" The set's final song Land of 1000 dances finished with lots of calls for "more"....as did the encore.....a great night again and only one last thing to resolve....The Buffet!
As the last official partygoers left the pub, the Band and several local "serious drinkers" descended upon the beautifully laid out tables and "vacuumed" them clean of all edible and some inedible items....Mr Dyson would have been well impressed!
The Landlady WAS impressed with the night's "audio feast" and we will be returning to the Beaumont in the New Year.
( PS:- The sharp eyed among you may have noticed that Tony and I are wearing the same shirts that we wore at the last gig in Eccles....had we washed them, or even changed from a week ago?.......trust me, rock and roll carries its own "sweet" smell of success :-))
Paul
A 50th birthday party was in full swing, with a fabulous saliva inducing buffet which tantalised the band from afar. Tony had his own bunch of admirers in attendance tonight for an impromptu "old job" leaving do. All in all a very busy and lively setting for some good old rock music.
An extended first set rocked along nicely which the enthusiastic audience approved of...well...enthusiastically!
An extended second set, which included two new Beatles numbers, Twist and Shout and I Saw Her Standing There, went down particularly well and tested the Band's ability to remember simple stuff....like "when does this song actually finish!" The set's final song Land of 1000 dances finished with lots of calls for "more"....as did the encore.....a great night again and only one last thing to resolve....The Buffet!
As the last official partygoers left the pub, the Band and several local "serious drinkers" descended upon the beautifully laid out tables and "vacuumed" them clean of all edible and some inedible items....Mr Dyson would have been well impressed!
The Landlady WAS impressed with the night's "audio feast" and we will be returning to the Beaumont in the New Year.
( PS:- The sharp eyed among you may have noticed that Tony and I are wearing the same shirts that we wore at the last gig in Eccles....had we washed them, or even changed from a week ago?.......trust me, rock and roll carries its own "sweet" smell of success :-))
Paul
9th November - Wangies, Eccles
Wangies has a deserved reputation for being the premium Hard Rock venue on the outskirts of Manchester. The decor and ambience of the pub is all "Rock and Beer" with Mark and Mandy (a bloke....real name withheld for legal reasons) being our most excellent hosts for the evening.
Given that Alfie's repertoire is mainly R&B, Motown and a little Soul...admittedly with a rock edge..., it was with some trepidation that we took to the stage. How wrong we were to be concerned....they loved us...encouraged by Mandy "Whooping" from behind the bar we delivered a better than average first set to a more than appreciative audience!
The second set was the real test though as "Mustang Sally" and those clad in a black biker's leather "Two piece" are not normal bedfellows! Wrong again......much leathery dancing ensued and we finished just after midnight to many calls for "more".
Mandy (the real Mandy and Landlady of the establishment) had wanted a band with a difference, and Alfie fitted the bill....the reward, a higher than negotiated fee and a return booking in March...Alfie loves Wangies!
Paul
Given that Alfie's repertoire is mainly R&B, Motown and a little Soul...admittedly with a rock edge..., it was with some trepidation that we took to the stage. How wrong we were to be concerned....they loved us...encouraged by Mandy "Whooping" from behind the bar we delivered a better than average first set to a more than appreciative audience!
The second set was the real test though as "Mustang Sally" and those clad in a black biker's leather "Two piece" are not normal bedfellows! Wrong again......much leathery dancing ensued and we finished just after midnight to many calls for "more".
Mandy (the real Mandy and Landlady of the establishment) had wanted a band with a difference, and Alfie fitted the bill....the reward, a higher than negotiated fee and a return booking in March...Alfie loves Wangies!
Paul
8th November - The Minstrel, Chorley
Alfie's second visit to The Minstrel, but the first without the BJ's Blues Club banner. The transition made more difficult as both Lucas and his Heidi, BJs convivial hosts, were in enthusiastic attendance.
An 18th birthday party was in full swing when we kicked off our usual first set which engaged the punters as it always appears too, and we were up and running.
The second set prompted much dancing, the most interesting of which came from a slim, silver haired fellow wearing a scarf and the expression of a man who had just seen Eric Pickles naked! His gyrating lit up the dance floor and was reminiscent of an "I'm a Celeb" contestant in a barrel of cockroaches, with much thrashing about of all appendages! At one stage he got entagled with a local "bruiser" and spilled his pint...the band were ready for a bloodbath ring side seat , but the dancer's tongue was as silky as his scarf, and he talked his way safely back to his dance floor oscillations!
Another good night....and Alfie will be back again in March....but this time The Minstrel will be in it's BJs guise!
Paul
An 18th birthday party was in full swing when we kicked off our usual first set which engaged the punters as it always appears too, and we were up and running.
The second set prompted much dancing, the most interesting of which came from a slim, silver haired fellow wearing a scarf and the expression of a man who had just seen Eric Pickles naked! His gyrating lit up the dance floor and was reminiscent of an "I'm a Celeb" contestant in a barrel of cockroaches, with much thrashing about of all appendages! At one stage he got entagled with a local "bruiser" and spilled his pint...the band were ready for a bloodbath ring side seat , but the dancer's tongue was as silky as his scarf, and he talked his way safely back to his dance floor oscillations!
Another good night....and Alfie will be back again in March....but this time The Minstrel will be in it's BJs guise!
Paul
1st November - Parish Centre, St Annes
This was a Private "Do" on a big stage with a Dickensian Winter's backdrop. It was Paul and Karen's retirement extravaganza, both having left the employ of HP the day before on early retirement.
Three Bands lit up the stage, with Alfie "headlining" and providing the lion's share of the live music. Alfie attempted to play their entire "dance" repertoire but sifted out some numbers "in flight" as it became apparent that playing for several hours was not beneficial to either Band or audience.
The "Do", whilst primarily a celebration of early retirement, was also an opportunity to raise over £200 for Macmillan Nurses.
Playing on such a big stage allowed the Band far more room than they are normally used too, with some members, at least initially, demonstrating behaviour reminiscent of a budgie who realises the cage door has been left open.
A great night with friends, relations and more friends...and all for a good cause....what's not to like?
Paul
Three Bands lit up the stage, with Alfie "headlining" and providing the lion's share of the live music. Alfie attempted to play their entire "dance" repertoire but sifted out some numbers "in flight" as it became apparent that playing for several hours was not beneficial to either Band or audience.
The "Do", whilst primarily a celebration of early retirement, was also an opportunity to raise over £200 for Macmillan Nurses.
Playing on such a big stage allowed the Band far more room than they are normally used too, with some members, at least initially, demonstrating behaviour reminiscent of a budgie who realises the cage door has been left open.
A great night with friends, relations and more friends...and all for a good cause....what's not to like?
Paul
25th October - Lane Ends, Ashton
Now we know why Ian, the drummer, is so loud....talk about "backlift"! The Lane Ends in Ashton, Preston was the location of tonight's "rhythmic assault" by the Alfie boys....loud and proud....well loud anyway!
A fairly typical large town centre pub but with a small playing area and "regular" Town Centre audience....like the bar in Star Wars....but more scary!
Usual sets, usual dancing, singing and odd requests from the audience....but all good humoured and all good fun.
This is Alfie's venue for New Year's Eve and it looks it will be a "real goodun"!
I guess all in all this was a typical "bog standard" gig....what's not to like! :-)
Paul
A fairly typical large town centre pub but with a small playing area and "regular" Town Centre audience....like the bar in Star Wars....but more scary!
Usual sets, usual dancing, singing and odd requests from the audience....but all good humoured and all good fun.
This is Alfie's venue for New Year's Eve and it looks it will be a "real goodun"!
I guess all in all this was a typical "bog standard" gig....what's not to like! :-)
Paul
24th October - The Wheatsheaf, Croston
Alfie were rocking from "Pillar to Post" in The Wheatsheaf in Croston tonight...very HOT and with a bit of a restricted view for both Band and audience...some may say that was a good thing...particularly for the audience...badum Tsh!
The audience were a little restrained in the first set, although the mouthing of words and much foot tapping were observed from the "stage"!
The interval saw the Band head outside to cool off and interrogate the Pub's barmaid turned "bouncer"...China Blue, a 20 year old "slip of a lass", very pretty and with a penchant for Punk....the latter presumably getting her the job on the door!
The second set saw a little more enthusiasm from the gathered throng...and encores were demanded. An earlyish finish of 11.30pm, due to very fussy neighbours apparently, saw us pack up and head off into the night.
Happy days....and nights.... of course!
Paul
The audience were a little restrained in the first set, although the mouthing of words and much foot tapping were observed from the "stage"!
The interval saw the Band head outside to cool off and interrogate the Pub's barmaid turned "bouncer"...China Blue, a 20 year old "slip of a lass", very pretty and with a penchant for Punk....the latter presumably getting her the job on the door!
The second set saw a little more enthusiasm from the gathered throng...and encores were demanded. An earlyish finish of 11.30pm, due to very fussy neighbours apparently, saw us pack up and head off into the night.
Happy days....and nights.... of course!
Paul
4th October - Pub Royale, Great Harwood
This was Alfie's third visit to Pub Royale and once again, great fun was had in Great Harwood. Set up was trouble free and Alfie ran through "bits" of various songs as part of the sound check. A relatively sparse audience was more than made up for by two great guys from the Royal Navy who's good natured heckling, fuelled largely by copious amounts of Newcastle Brown Ale, kept everyone, including the band, happily entertained.
The first set highlight was Boom Boom, which turned into a much more religious rendition than normal largely due to the promptings of our seafaring friends.....hallelujah!
The second set "rocked" along at at "rocking" pace and was largely uneventful apart from some random experimenting with song keys in Land of 1000 Dances, more reminiscent of Stockhausen than Wilson Pickett, but hey....."ain't that what LIVE music is all about?
Lauren, the very young and "easy on the eye" Manager, jigged along with Alfie in the second set and was very complimentary when the gig was over. Looks like a fourth visit to Pub Royale will be happening in 2015.
Paul
The first set highlight was Boom Boom, which turned into a much more religious rendition than normal largely due to the promptings of our seafaring friends.....hallelujah!
The second set "rocked" along at at "rocking" pace and was largely uneventful apart from some random experimenting with song keys in Land of 1000 Dances, more reminiscent of Stockhausen than Wilson Pickett, but hey....."ain't that what LIVE music is all about?
Lauren, the very young and "easy on the eye" Manager, jigged along with Alfie in the second set and was very complimentary when the gig was over. Looks like a fourth visit to Pub Royale will be happening in 2015.
Paul
21st September - Briercliffe Social Club, Burnley
Tonight "Alfie" travelled back in time to the 70's for an early evening gig at the Briercliffe Social Club in Burnley...we love this place, it has a stage with a sparkly backdrop...'nuf said ....
Concert Secretary Phil welcomed Alfie from his Concert Secretary pulpit and off we went with the usual sets and much dancing ensued. The beer was a cheap and delicious "oasis" in the break in sets.
The second set was as popular as ever and again much dancing and singing along was in evidence....did I mention that we love this place!
This Sunday afternoon gig at the Briercliffe was an experiment...it was successful for Alfie, let's hope it was for the Briercliffe as we would love to repeat the experience again!
Paul
Concert Secretary Phil welcomed Alfie from his Concert Secretary pulpit and off we went with the usual sets and much dancing ensued. The beer was a cheap and delicious "oasis" in the break in sets.
The second set was as popular as ever and again much dancing and singing along was in evidence....did I mention that we love this place!
This Sunday afternoon gig at the Briercliffe was an experiment...it was successful for Alfie, let's hope it was for the Briercliffe as we would love to repeat the experience again!
Paul
20th September - Original Bay Horse, Horwich
Tonight's gig was at the, hot and sweaty, Original Bay Horse in Horwich near Bolton. The pub is owned by Bolton Wanderers legend John McGinlay, who is an extremely nice fella!
The stage was small....I mean small... and a weird shape. Everytime Ian hit his crash it gave my lower back a massage. The pub was packed and the audience was very appreciative with the usual mixture of rock and Motown getting the dancers in action in the limited space available....did I mention the pub was packed!
We extended the second set a little at the request of the Landlord and played Mean Town Blues for the first time in a while....you can't beat a bit of Johnny Winter to liven things up. Having all lost our own body weight in fluid, we battled on until midnight and rounded of the evening with Hard To Handle, and after the usual never ending break down of gear, we headed off into the night with the promise of a return gig in 2015. Result!
Paul
The stage was small....I mean small... and a weird shape. Everytime Ian hit his crash it gave my lower back a massage. The pub was packed and the audience was very appreciative with the usual mixture of rock and Motown getting the dancers in action in the limited space available....did I mention the pub was packed!
We extended the second set a little at the request of the Landlord and played Mean Town Blues for the first time in a while....you can't beat a bit of Johnny Winter to liven things up. Having all lost our own body weight in fluid, we battled on until midnight and rounded of the evening with Hard To Handle, and after the usual never ending break down of gear, we headed off into the night with the promise of a return gig in 2015. Result!
Paul
12th september - The Wheatsheaf, Preston
Alfie are "back in the saddle" after a summer break and visit the Wheatsheaf in Preston for the 5th time....this is now considered our "home" gig!
The Audience tonight were almost as entertaining as the Band, one fellow, keen on touching the Band, was "rewarded" by Tony giving him a tambourine....he proved surprisingly rhythmic and has now joined the Band in the Rhythm and Cuddle section!
There was a sting in the tail though as "Mr Tambourine Man" later repaid Tony's faith in humanity by tripping over the monitor and demolishing his music stand....but he hardly missed a beat though (video below)!
Meanwhile, the usual sets went down well and there was much dancing during the second set with some "moves" that were being thrown not unlike a box of frogs simultaneously having an epileptic fit ....what is in the beer here?
Alfie always enjoy the Wheatsheaf and the Wheatsheaf apparently enjoy Alfie ... two more gigs booked for 2015....Happy Days!
Paul
PS Some video of our new R&C section including "the demoloshing" towards the end of Rebel Rebel....
The Audience tonight were almost as entertaining as the Band, one fellow, keen on touching the Band, was "rewarded" by Tony giving him a tambourine....he proved surprisingly rhythmic and has now joined the Band in the Rhythm and Cuddle section!
There was a sting in the tail though as "Mr Tambourine Man" later repaid Tony's faith in humanity by tripping over the monitor and demolishing his music stand....but he hardly missed a beat though (video below)!
Meanwhile, the usual sets went down well and there was much dancing during the second set with some "moves" that were being thrown not unlike a box of frogs simultaneously having an epileptic fit ....what is in the beer here?
Alfie always enjoy the Wheatsheaf and the Wheatsheaf apparently enjoy Alfie ... two more gigs booked for 2015....Happy Days!
Paul
PS Some video of our new R&C section including "the demoloshing" towards the end of Rebel Rebel....
9th August 2014 - Old Black Bull, Preston
Alfie's 50th gig and we were playing "at home", well sort of, in the always packed and pumpin' Old Black Bull in downtown Preston.
The first set, as ever, went down well with dancing from song number 3...they were even dancing outside in the car park....I think we were quite loud tonight.
Paul was playing through his new Victory rig which is frighteningly loud for something so small and perfectly formed.... a bit like it's owner some would say! Paul was also using a new Vox curly lead which inadvertently pulled the jack socket out of the guitar just before the second set. This prompted much animated activity involving torches, screwdrivers, drummers and pliers, a potent combination if not used with extreme care!
Guitar "sorted", set two appeared to please the locals and the obligatory encore followed. Liam, the Landlord, said we were the best band he had heard in the pub...praise indeed, although this was somewhat tempered when he followed up with "mind you, I've only been here two weeks" .... Still a repeat booking is in the pipeline...what's not to like eh?
Paul
The first set, as ever, went down well with dancing from song number 3...they were even dancing outside in the car park....I think we were quite loud tonight.
Paul was playing through his new Victory rig which is frighteningly loud for something so small and perfectly formed.... a bit like it's owner some would say! Paul was also using a new Vox curly lead which inadvertently pulled the jack socket out of the guitar just before the second set. This prompted much animated activity involving torches, screwdrivers, drummers and pliers, a potent combination if not used with extreme care!
Guitar "sorted", set two appeared to please the locals and the obligatory encore followed. Liam, the Landlord, said we were the best band he had heard in the pub...praise indeed, although this was somewhat tempered when he followed up with "mind you, I've only been here two weeks" .... Still a repeat booking is in the pipeline...what's not to like eh?
Paul
Alfie Hits 50!
2nd August 2014 - The Bay Horse, Baxenden
None of us had heard of Baxenden, but the Bay Horse is a great little pub, packed to the rafters and as hot as you like. We were made welcome by the hosts who politely shooed customers from our allotted "stage area". Set up and sound check were quick and painless for us and we then watched the first half of a Man City friendly game (which they eventually lost....sorry Ian).
Alfie played their "usual" 2 sets and it was all well received. Two lads from a local band Kelly's Heroes made us feel particularly welcome to their local where they play every couple of Months.
When breaking down the gear at the end of the night, Ian endeared himself to one and all by having us all search for a lost piece from his Hi Hat....only to discover it inside the stand once everyone had scrabbled around the floor, emptied bags etc.....drummers eh? :-)
We were promised a return gig by Barbara the Landlady, who said she enjoyed the evening and had had lots of positive feedback from customers.....nice!
Paul
Alfie played their "usual" 2 sets and it was all well received. Two lads from a local band Kelly's Heroes made us feel particularly welcome to their local where they play every couple of Months.
When breaking down the gear at the end of the night, Ian endeared himself to one and all by having us all search for a lost piece from his Hi Hat....only to discover it inside the stand once everyone had scrabbled around the floor, emptied bags etc.....drummers eh? :-)
We were promised a return gig by Barbara the Landlady, who said she enjoyed the evening and had had lots of positive feedback from customers.....nice!
Paul
2nd August 2014 - The Walmsley Arms, Great Harwood
Alfie were 3rd on the bill at this outdoor charity bash in aid of the North West Air Ambulance and a very enthusiastic, gymnastic...fantastic crowd made us feel very welcome......the free (to us) pulled pork sandwich being particularly welcome.
The rudimentary PA, no monitors and the odd shaped stage meant it was the first time Alfie had played a gig and none of us, apart from Tony, heard a word he sang. Singing backing vocals was done from memory and occasional lip reading!
Alfie played for around an hour before rapidly packing up for the 10 mile or so drive down the road to Baxenden for our evening session.
Well done to the organisers for making it such a great event....just a pity we couldn't stay and watch 3 Blokes and a Bird, the next act on, who had a terrific looking Bose PA and electronic drum kit....radicle rock n' roll!
Paul
The rudimentary PA, no monitors and the odd shaped stage meant it was the first time Alfie had played a gig and none of us, apart from Tony, heard a word he sang. Singing backing vocals was done from memory and occasional lip reading!
Alfie played for around an hour before rapidly packing up for the 10 mile or so drive down the road to Baxenden for our evening session.
Well done to the organisers for making it such a great event....just a pity we couldn't stay and watch 3 Blokes and a Bird, the next act on, who had a terrific looking Bose PA and electronic drum kit....radicle rock n' roll!
Paul
30th July 2014 - HP St Annes Site, St Annes
Celebrating 75 years, HP picked Alfie to "rock it" to their staff as part of their birthday celebrations. There was a BBQ, popcorn, Candy Floss, Ice Cream and some fairground stalls.....and Alfie!
Playing outside over the lunch period, Alfie literally weathered the storm, protected only by Gazebos and a poor selection of clothing, they battled through the extreme blusteriness....but thankfully... no rain.
The audience drifted in and out from the various offices, stopping to devour their free BBQ'd sausages and burgers and cast an interested eye over the band.... some exchanged knowing nods and winks with Paul on guitar, also an HP employee in his "real" job! The sound was surprisingly good given the location and prevailing westerly "hurricane" and the playing was pretty good all round. All in all this corporate gig was a "goodun"....wonder if they will book Alfie for the 100th anniversary!
Paul
Playing outside over the lunch period, Alfie literally weathered the storm, protected only by Gazebos and a poor selection of clothing, they battled through the extreme blusteriness....but thankfully... no rain.
The audience drifted in and out from the various offices, stopping to devour their free BBQ'd sausages and burgers and cast an interested eye over the band.... some exchanged knowing nods and winks with Paul on guitar, also an HP employee in his "real" job! The sound was surprisingly good given the location and prevailing westerly "hurricane" and the playing was pretty good all round. All in all this corporate gig was a "goodun"....wonder if they will book Alfie for the 100th anniversary!
Paul
26th July 2014 - The Ale Emporium, Preston
This was the 3rd visit for Alfie to this venue and it was hot, steamy and rockin' ....with a noisy and appreciative audience. Alfie played the "usual" sets and some dancing was in order as well as communal singing .... there were also some "special guests" in the audience....Tony (the singer) explains...
"Dave and Liz from the Good Ole USA turned up last night with a entourage from St Annes. Dave has been Mastering and doing some production on tracks we sent to him form the UK with the aim of bringing out a CD of studio covers taken from the set . Hopefully a CD of Alfie originals will be following soon.
Liz who, like Dave, is originally from Newcastle but have lived in the USA for many years. Liz has done backing vocals for Lindisfarne in the past, got up to sing Mustang Sally, very well done too... It was nice to for me chirp in and sing backing vocals with the rest of the guys for a change and play a little blues harp in the back ground.
Nice night with lovely people including some new friends of the band, an "original band" who Dave has also been mastering an album for . These guys sat at the front and looked like the jury, lol... no pressure there... nice people and looking forward to hearing their album and seeing them live."
As "the Jury" clearly enjoyed the night, it was a big thumbs up with a return visit booked for february 7th 2015.
Paul
"Dave and Liz from the Good Ole USA turned up last night with a entourage from St Annes. Dave has been Mastering and doing some production on tracks we sent to him form the UK with the aim of bringing out a CD of studio covers taken from the set . Hopefully a CD of Alfie originals will be following soon.
Liz who, like Dave, is originally from Newcastle but have lived in the USA for many years. Liz has done backing vocals for Lindisfarne in the past, got up to sing Mustang Sally, very well done too... It was nice to for me chirp in and sing backing vocals with the rest of the guys for a change and play a little blues harp in the back ground.
Nice night with lovely people including some new friends of the band, an "original band" who Dave has also been mastering an album for . These guys sat at the front and looked like the jury, lol... no pressure there... nice people and looking forward to hearing their album and seeing them live."
As "the Jury" clearly enjoyed the night, it was a big thumbs up with a return visit booked for february 7th 2015.
Paul
12th July 2014 - The Victoria, Lostock Hall
The Victoria has had a recent change of ownership and Ian (the Landlord) and his partner gave us a warm welcome. The stage for the second night running had a back drop of a fireplace and once again Ian, on drums ,assumed an aura of Santa Clause....but without the beard and good dress sense. And while the weather outside was frightful, the music inside was delightful...at least according to one punter who thoroughly enjoyed the Alfie rendition of Don't Believe A Word.
The stage area was ample and very similar to the previous night's gig ...including the very "busy" carpet....obviously a pub standard to hide anything gruesome and only needing to be replaced when the locals are all trapped to it's stickiness like flies on flypaper.
Both sets went down well to a relatively small, but appreciative, audience...the World Cup Play off's didn't help numbers nor did the aforementioned inclement weather. We aim to be back in Lostock Hall early in 2015 and the Victoria is certainly a great venue.
Paul
The stage area was ample and very similar to the previous night's gig ...including the very "busy" carpet....obviously a pub standard to hide anything gruesome and only needing to be replaced when the locals are all trapped to it's stickiness like flies on flypaper.
Both sets went down well to a relatively small, but appreciative, audience...the World Cup Play off's didn't help numbers nor did the aforementioned inclement weather. We aim to be back in Lostock Hall early in 2015 and the Victoria is certainly a great venue.
Paul
11th July 2014 - The Railway, Chorley
A good old pub in the heart of Chorley just by the Station (no sh*t Sherlock)....the carpet was "busier" than the pub during set up, when Tony dropped his earbuds and they instantly disappeared from normal vision with a chameleon like precision. After much scrabbling about on the floor, discovering all manner of unpleasantness, said earphones were retrieved along with a Japanese soldier and the lost city of Atlantis.
The pub duly filled up ready for the first set, boosted by an enthusiastic contingent from Tony's workplace. The first set had a couple of extra Free songs thrown in for good measure and was well received by the audience.
Set 2 is the "dancier" set and some of the locals duly obliged, boogying in from an hour so in the smoking area and bringing with them a dry ice effect that Floyd would have been proud of. Yet another good night for Alfie in Chorley and we will be back for more soon.
Paul
The pub duly filled up ready for the first set, boosted by an enthusiastic contingent from Tony's workplace. The first set had a couple of extra Free songs thrown in for good measure and was well received by the audience.
Set 2 is the "dancier" set and some of the locals duly obliged, boogying in from an hour so in the smoking area and bringing with them a dry ice effect that Floyd would have been proud of. Yet another good night for Alfie in Chorley and we will be back for more soon.
Paul
5th July 2014 - The Talbot, Burnley
A very popular music venue in Burnley, The Talbot has a nice big stage and a great sound. The Landlady for the night was a very assertive lady who vaguely reminded me of a character from the Wizard of Oz or Snow White. Under strict instructions NOT to finish before Midnight we added a couple of songs to the planned sets and played everything a little slower than usual, reducing dancers on some songs to a sort of "Slomo Shuffle" :-)
The World Cup Quarter Final between Holland and Costa Rica was burbling away in the background, but the audience seemed happy enough to watch Tony flinging himself around the stage rather than Arjen Robben flinging himself around some far flung football field!
We played our standard sets, adding Fire and Water and The Hunter as the aforementioned "padding" which went down well. I suspect the audience are more used to being served Classic Rock rather than Alfie's eclectic mix of good quality "old stuff" covering several musical genres.
All in all another good night, Alfie were well received as was the blueberry muffin and coffee from McDonald's at 1.15 am on the way home. I know it's only rock and roll ...... but I like it, like it.....yes I do! :-)
Paul
The World Cup Quarter Final between Holland and Costa Rica was burbling away in the background, but the audience seemed happy enough to watch Tony flinging himself around the stage rather than Arjen Robben flinging himself around some far flung football field!
We played our standard sets, adding Fire and Water and The Hunter as the aforementioned "padding" which went down well. I suspect the audience are more used to being served Classic Rock rather than Alfie's eclectic mix of good quality "old stuff" covering several musical genres.
All in all another good night, Alfie were well received as was the blueberry muffin and coffee from McDonald's at 1.15 am on the way home. I know it's only rock and roll ...... but I like it, like it.....yes I do! :-)
Paul
3rd July 2014 - BJ's @ The Minstrel, Chorley
BJ's Rock-In-The-Blues Club continues to be the heartbeat of quality music in the North West, recently re-located to the Minstrel in Chorley.
Lucas Campbell, the congenial host, had this to say....
*A BIG! BIG! THANK YOU!! TO *ALFIE IBBOTSONSON’S POPULAR BEAT COMBO* FOR AN *ABSOLUTELY!!!* *AWESOME!!!* *PERFORMANCE* WE REALLY LOVED YOU!!*
Rosy Greer's Review for 'ALFIE IBBOTSON'S POPULAR BEAT COMBO' @ BJ's 'Rock in the Blues' Club, The Minstrel, Chorley - 3.7.14 http://www.alfieibbotson.com/
Another great Thursday evening at BJ's 'Rock in the Blues' Club, at the Minstrel in Chorley, hosted by 'Rock Guru' Lucas Campbell.
Tonight a move away from the norm with the Alfie Ibbotson's Popular Beat Combo. It was 'bring on a party' atmosphere with a mix of covers as diverse as Bowie to the Beatles or Free to Soft Cell.
The band are from the Preston area with front man Tony Wardle giving amazing vocals and harmonica, Paul Mason on guitar, Charlie Pearson on bass and the joker in the pack Ian Massey on drums.
The evening kicked off with a great rendition of Cream's 'White Room' then onto 'Jealousy' with Tony bringing in his harmonica skills. With some rock and some soul we moved on to a bit of R&B with a John Lee Hooker number, again with Tony on harp.
The Stone's 'Brown Sugar' followed, with plenty of dancing, then 'Get Back', a good Beatles cover. Leaning towards pop rock the band played a couple of Bowie numbers, some more Beatles and finished off the first set with a raise the roof Who track 'Can't Explain'.
The second set gave us 'Fire And Water' a class Free track leading into 'Summertime Blues'. They did a great take of Thin Lizzy's, 'Don't Believe A Word', before moving on to a bit of rock 'n roll. A great bit of nostalgia followed with Spencer Davies's, 'Keep On Running' then to a complete change with 'Tainted Love' by Soft Cell, lots of audience participation on this one!
Moving back in time, a rockin' version of the Everly Brothers, 'Price Of Love' followed by a couple of Wilson Picket numbers and some more Beatles. To finish the evening a bit of Motown madness, which was especially enjoyed by the dancers!!
For the encore they played some classic rock with 'Too Hot To Handle', Deep Purple's 'Hush' and the finale of Free's 'The Hunter'.
Certainly not a 'blues' band, but the Combo gave great entertainment with a mix of pop rock, blues rock and soul and provided a great evening of music.
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive http://www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
Thank you for the kind words Lucas and Rosie, the Band love this venue and we had a great night.... a big thanks to all who attended and to Lucas and Heidi who make it all happen at BJ's!
Paul
Lucas Campbell, the congenial host, had this to say....
*A BIG! BIG! THANK YOU!! TO *ALFIE IBBOTSONSON’S POPULAR BEAT COMBO* FOR AN *ABSOLUTELY!!!* *AWESOME!!!* *PERFORMANCE* WE REALLY LOVED YOU!!*
Rosy Greer's Review for 'ALFIE IBBOTSON'S POPULAR BEAT COMBO' @ BJ's 'Rock in the Blues' Club, The Minstrel, Chorley - 3.7.14 http://www.alfieibbotson.com/
Another great Thursday evening at BJ's 'Rock in the Blues' Club, at the Minstrel in Chorley, hosted by 'Rock Guru' Lucas Campbell.
Tonight a move away from the norm with the Alfie Ibbotson's Popular Beat Combo. It was 'bring on a party' atmosphere with a mix of covers as diverse as Bowie to the Beatles or Free to Soft Cell.
The band are from the Preston area with front man Tony Wardle giving amazing vocals and harmonica, Paul Mason on guitar, Charlie Pearson on bass and the joker in the pack Ian Massey on drums.
The evening kicked off with a great rendition of Cream's 'White Room' then onto 'Jealousy' with Tony bringing in his harmonica skills. With some rock and some soul we moved on to a bit of R&B with a John Lee Hooker number, again with Tony on harp.
The Stone's 'Brown Sugar' followed, with plenty of dancing, then 'Get Back', a good Beatles cover. Leaning towards pop rock the band played a couple of Bowie numbers, some more Beatles and finished off the first set with a raise the roof Who track 'Can't Explain'.
The second set gave us 'Fire And Water' a class Free track leading into 'Summertime Blues'. They did a great take of Thin Lizzy's, 'Don't Believe A Word', before moving on to a bit of rock 'n roll. A great bit of nostalgia followed with Spencer Davies's, 'Keep On Running' then to a complete change with 'Tainted Love' by Soft Cell, lots of audience participation on this one!
Moving back in time, a rockin' version of the Everly Brothers, 'Price Of Love' followed by a couple of Wilson Picket numbers and some more Beatles. To finish the evening a bit of Motown madness, which was especially enjoyed by the dancers!!
For the encore they played some classic rock with 'Too Hot To Handle', Deep Purple's 'Hush' and the finale of Free's 'The Hunter'.
Certainly not a 'blues' band, but the Combo gave great entertainment with a mix of pop rock, blues rock and soul and provided a great evening of music.
Rosy Greer - Lancashire Blues Archive http://www.facebook.com/lancsbluesarchive
Thank you for the kind words Lucas and Rosie, the Band love this venue and we had a great night.... a big thanks to all who attended and to Lucas and Heidi who make it all happen at BJ's!
Paul
BJ's full and Rockin'
28th June 2014 - The Johnny Todd, Kirkby
Meanwhile, back at the Johnny Todd in Kirkby, Liverpool...Alfie, received the usual warm welcome from our hosts Kym and Tom as well as the usual outrageously "Scouse" punters.
Set one went well , especially the Beatles stuff possibly because of our unusual rendition of the middle section of Day Tripper :-)
Katie from Kirkby wanted to sing... so we learned "Son of a Preacher Man" in the interval, in the car park ...with the smokers.
The start of set two saw Katie "deliver" with much gusto and arm waving...buoyed by her own success, Katie made several other forays to the stage to completely "re-write" arrangements of Mustang Sally and Land of 100 Dances, again with much arm waving and even more gusto. The audience, probably related, certainly enjoyed the performance and the band are now considering adopting "Katie's arrangements"....I mean why not sing a verse and chorus at the same time... eh?
Intimidated by "your avin a laff" from a big lad ...with a big mouth...when we reached the end of our already extended set, Alfie delivered more music with fine renditions of three Free classics before packing up for the long journey home.
As ever, the Johnny Todd was an adventure and one we hope to repeat in the near future.
Paul, Guitar and nervous twitch!
Set one went well , especially the Beatles stuff possibly because of our unusual rendition of the middle section of Day Tripper :-)
Katie from Kirkby wanted to sing... so we learned "Son of a Preacher Man" in the interval, in the car park ...with the smokers.
The start of set two saw Katie "deliver" with much gusto and arm waving...buoyed by her own success, Katie made several other forays to the stage to completely "re-write" arrangements of Mustang Sally and Land of 100 Dances, again with much arm waving and even more gusto. The audience, probably related, certainly enjoyed the performance and the band are now considering adopting "Katie's arrangements"....I mean why not sing a verse and chorus at the same time... eh?
Intimidated by "your avin a laff" from a big lad ...with a big mouth...when we reached the end of our already extended set, Alfie delivered more music with fine renditions of three Free classics before packing up for the long journey home.
As ever, the Johnny Todd was an adventure and one we hope to repeat in the near future.
Paul, Guitar and nervous twitch!
24th June 2014 - Station Tavern, Lytham
This gig was part of Lytham Arts Festival striving to keep music live. The Station Tavern has live music on every week and as part of a recent refurb, has a large stage area with plenty of power...nice!
The size of the audience varied throughout the night, but overall the gig was rather well attended, given it was a Tuesday night and England were on the telly. We played our "usual" sets to an enthusiastic reception and had some audience participation....in the right places on this occasion.
Lytham audiences appear to be the polar opposite to our previous gig in Bolton...from the Wild West to a "sophistomocated" Hamlet....which is best, there is only one way to decide.......fight !! :-)
Paul, Guitar and less dodgy pedal board.
The size of the audience varied throughout the night, but overall the gig was rather well attended, given it was a Tuesday night and England were on the telly. We played our "usual" sets to an enthusiastic reception and had some audience participation....in the right places on this occasion.
Lytham audiences appear to be the polar opposite to our previous gig in Bolton...from the Wild West to a "sophistomocated" Hamlet....which is best, there is only one way to decide.......fight !! :-)
Paul, Guitar and less dodgy pedal board.
31st May 2014 - Ye Olde Man and Scythe, Bolton
Ye Olde Man and Scythe was built in 1251 and there was some speculation that the Barmaid was there at the opening....bum bum!
The performance area was the size of a King size mattress plus a few scatter cushions (see picture) and was right next to the Gents toilet, which elicited a lovely "fruity breeze" every time the door clattered shut!
The gig itself was great fun with an eclectic mix of an audience in various stages of inebriation, trying to stay on their feet, and often failing. "Dying swans" would distribute lager generously into the packed throng to a less than enthusiastic reception. One nice fellow poured the remainder of MY Fosters into MY pedal board just before the second set .....double whammy or what?
In this Wild West setting, both "sets" went down extremely well as the audience jigged and clapped their way into the night. Great gig, great setting and we should be there again in February....what's not to like?
Paul, Guitar and dodgy pedal board.
The performance area was the size of a King size mattress plus a few scatter cushions (see picture) and was right next to the Gents toilet, which elicited a lovely "fruity breeze" every time the door clattered shut!
The gig itself was great fun with an eclectic mix of an audience in various stages of inebriation, trying to stay on their feet, and often failing. "Dying swans" would distribute lager generously into the packed throng to a less than enthusiastic reception. One nice fellow poured the remainder of MY Fosters into MY pedal board just before the second set .....double whammy or what?
In this Wild West setting, both "sets" went down extremely well as the audience jigged and clapped their way into the night. Great gig, great setting and we should be there again in February....what's not to like?
Paul, Guitar and dodgy pedal board.
27th July 2013 - BJ's Rock in the Blues Club, Hop Pocket, Chorley
This is a band of many parts but driven by one musical spirit that demands perfection from their inner souls ensuring they never fall short of the mark. Fronted by the passionate vocal skills of Tony Wardle, who can veer from guttural rock machismo into Sam Cooke style heartfelt songs with equal aplomb, they are one of the most versatile bands on the circuit today. We look forward to seeing them again at BJ’s in the future.
Lucas Campbell, BJ’s Rock In The Blues Club, Radio Presenter - Music Promotor
This band had its debut here and the regular crowd gave them a rousing welcome, we have been waiting for this band to arrive and arrive they did in style. Tony Wardle front man and lead vocal and harp player took centre stage and gave a professional and concise performance. Tony’s repertoire stretches from Blues, Northern Soul and good old Rock & Roll and others in between. Paul Mason on lead guitar is an experience musician but in the early days he started out as a drummer but fell for the guitar eventually. The rhythm section was on bass guitar Charlie Pearson a smooth sound from him and skin man Ian Massey an accomplished drummer. They formed just over 12 months ago and already have generated some interesting covers spreading across several genres of music this prevents them from being pigeon holed to a particular genre and has a broader appeal to the audience, dancing shoes required here. I can see in the not too distant future that this band will go from strength to strength, time is on their side and they will make good use of it, I look forward to seeing them again.
Keith Blackledge, National & International music reviewer
31st March 2013 - Wheatsheaf, Preston
While spending the Easter weeked visiting some old mates of mine in the Preston area, I popped into the Wheatsheaf for a pint on the Sunday and ended up staying all night, as the entertainment was right up my street. Even their name “Alfie Ibbotson’s Popular Beat Combo” had me smiling from the start, and when they got stuck into the first set of bluesy rocky classics I just had to get another pint of Blonde in and see more.
Having bravely opened with White Room by Cream (not the easiest of numbers to tackle!), and continuing with the Free classic Fire and Water, I felt confident I’d enjoy the rest of their stuff, and indeed I did. During the Cream, Dr. Feelgood, Howlin’ Wolf, Robert Cray, etc, songs that followed The drummer and bassist kept things nice and tight throughout, and really gave the impression they were having fun. The guitarist filled things out with some tasteful licks, while also avoided the all too common sin many axemen have of cranking that amp up way too far, and in so doing allowing me to actually hear what the excellent vocalist was doing, both with his voice and his harmonica!
The second set included a somewhat broader range of genres, and had the whole place either dancing or at least enthusiastically tapping the tables. Being a big Free fan myselff, I’m sure “I’ll be creeping” along to see them again sometime.
Guy Bainbridge - Singer, Songwriter and Performer, Newcastle
Having bravely opened with White Room by Cream (not the easiest of numbers to tackle!), and continuing with the Free classic Fire and Water, I felt confident I’d enjoy the rest of their stuff, and indeed I did. During the Cream, Dr. Feelgood, Howlin’ Wolf, Robert Cray, etc, songs that followed The drummer and bassist kept things nice and tight throughout, and really gave the impression they were having fun. The guitarist filled things out with some tasteful licks, while also avoided the all too common sin many axemen have of cranking that amp up way too far, and in so doing allowing me to actually hear what the excellent vocalist was doing, both with his voice and his harmonica!
The second set included a somewhat broader range of genres, and had the whole place either dancing or at least enthusiastically tapping the tables. Being a big Free fan myselff, I’m sure “I’ll be creeping” along to see them again sometime.
Guy Bainbridge - Singer, Songwriter and Performer, Newcastle
2nd February 2013 - The Bitter Suite, Preston
A group of us went down to the Bitter Suite last night to witness Alfie Ibbotson's debut. Tony, the vocalist and harp player, has been to see us in the Extras umpteen times, so we thought a trip out to Preston was called for. And it was definitely worth it! The band played a refreshingly unusual selection of blues and rock such as Johnny Winter and the Fabulous Thunderbirds, as well as the better known artists such as Free and Cream... a few came from left of field. Monkey Man and Tainted Love. All were played and performed well. Tony's vocals are reminiscent of Paul Rogers and he plays a mean harp too. We all enjoyed it, and the audience lapped it up! The band came back on and did encores and I doubt that anyone the audience would have been aware that it was their very first gig. I gather it was a bit of a 'pilot' to test the water. Better get to work filling that diary now! This is a band to watch out for.
The Extras - Blues / Rock Band, Southport
The Extras - Blues / Rock Band, Southport