Soul Underground
SOUL
UNDERGROUND - WALSALL - 20 JULY
This
was the first event - see News pages for details. It was a great
night. Rather than write this myself I've left it to the guys on
the Modern Soul list. Thanks for them for allowing me to reproduce
their comments here.
Congrats
to Lin & Tait for last nights opening of their new venue, Soul
Underground.
Briefly
for those that didn't make it -
Atmosphere
? It reeks of it. Everyone said this is the perfect venue for what
we're about, and the size of crowd that's likely to be there.
Attendance
? Good sized crowd, I think any more in and it would have been
uncomfortable, maybe another ten or twenty but not many more.
Music
? A bit of a mixture, some brilliant, some just great and some
that ain't for me. On balance something for everyone.
People
? Lots of folk who'd made the effort to travel a distance, which
is nice :-) Plus some locals from Walsall area who I hadn't seen
very often since the 80's. They all said 'see you next month'
Sounds
for sale ? Des Parker's bargain boxes and Fish's usual array of
fine soul selections (so I'm told, didn't get to look myself)
Conversations
? My personal top 3 were -
1.
Walking in to be greeted by Lin, "Allo Mate, I'm so nervous
about tonight I'm P*ssed already"
2.
Old Walsall face (introducing me to his brother) "This is the
lad who sold me a record for twenty quid when it was worth a
hundred and twenty"
3.
Discussing the merits of Guitars in Soul records with the brothers
Ripolles (Jordi have you got a slot in your back where the key
fits ? :-))
DJ's
? Thoroughly enjoyed some of the things they did, didn't take to
others.
Overall
? An excellent first night, well supported. The crowd were well up
for a bit of boogie'ing 'cause as soon as the tempo lifted the
floor filled.
Don't
think you could have had a better start to a new venue (Can't
remember any other venue that's started this well)
Well
done !!!
Bumpy
I'll
second that. If it takes until 4 O'clock on a Saturday afternoon
to get a posting it must've been a good night.
Well
done Lin & Roger & all
Lets
hope we can keep the momentum up
Mike
Good
morning everyone,
Oh
dear how silly am I ??
I
went to bed at around 3.30am on Friday after the event and have
only just got up because I've been so "poorly"
I'm
afraid the nerves got to me and you can imagine the rest. I would
love to do you a venue report but my memory is a little hazy so
I'll just post some thanks.
The
DJ's were really great and did play a truly eclectic set of soul
70ts 80ts 90ts to tomorrow, so thanks to Max,Chris,Roger,Ray and
Gavin!! I can't single anyone out you were all wonderful.. thank
you so much...(playlists
..please
..you are all on here with the exception of Max (John ??) ...so
don't be shy!!)
Attendance,
well all our very hard work paid off and it was packed with lots
of travelers especially "modern soulers" thanks to Netty
& Phil (Phil you had that camera again...please dont !!)
Dave
Fleming ..what a wonderful surprise (and thanks so much for the
tapes which I will play today ) Ralph Jefferson,Mike Ashley and
Dominique ,Donna and Gary Scothern,Dave and Jordi Ripolles,Sean
Evans ,John Pugh ..glad you enjoyed it John ..apologies for the
greeting!
I
hope I havent forgotten anyone but basically I want to thank
everyone who made it such a great,great nite ,I told you it was a
nice venue didnt I??
The
management were really impressed with us all and they loved the
music too ,I cant wait for the next one ,another "modern soul
list" event presenting Thierry Boulanger, Roger
Williams,Gavin Paige,Jordi Ripolles and Gary Holyman.If I
embarrassed myself in front of anyone please accept my apologies,
I remember grabbing the mic at the end to thank people but God
knows what I rambled on about. Never again ..........really never
ever again!!
Thanks
guys
Love
Lin
xxx
Lin,
Hope you are feeling a lot better, and up to cooking a Sunday
Roast! We had a great time, the venue is just right, it has all
the ingredients to become a regular 'soul club' Now,you must have
been nervous' because you didn't introduce us to people on here,
that we haven't met ( and that is so unlike you)It was good to
meet Rogers wife,who said she met/seen me before. I must have been
'nervous' that day because i can't recall a meeting.
Haven't
looked at the photos yet.! Shaun had to try very hard NOT to dance
(his op)but he did have a bop behind the decks when Gav was on...i
wont tell matron...It was very warm/hot and as was said before i
feel that 0-15 more people and that would be fine anymore and it
could get uncomfortable (especially for the dancers among us)All
in all great night. The Simpsons will be jealous, but thats what
you get for jetting off to sunny islands..missing the hospitality
of a Walsall hotel which was brilliant, 2 of our sons came with us
and played pool and run up room service tabs,had the biggest
breakfast you have ever.
Sit
back and smile Lin and Tait, you did work hard,as did the djs and
hotel staff, and it did pay off.
See
you soon
Netty
and Phil.
Hi
all,
Just
to echo what others have already said, an excellent gig Friday
night
well
done Lin and all the DJs for your efforts. Great atmosphere as
soon as you walk in the room, it seems purpose built for a Modern
soul gig. Superb music from all the DJs right through the night,
busy dancefloor (nearly the whole room at times) and well
supported attendance wise which was good to see. We'll certainly
be back in the future and hopefully these posts will encourage
others to come along in the future.
Cheers,
Garry.
Congratulations
Lin !!
Thought
I'd come out of lurkdom to let you know what a fantastic nightI
had on Friday. Perfect venue, with 'instant' atmosphere,
greatdancefloor (with the bar virtually on it - so no self
conscious walk to the dancefloor- you can shuffle on the spot and
be on the dancefloor, and still have a pint and a chat!), great
crowd and above all, for me great music.
Musically
it was a refreshing blend ,and proved the theory that people can
dance and have a good time to more mid-tempo tunes new and old
,when selectively programmed in the right venue. I don't know
whether it was the North West influence, but the music had a feel
of Manchester's' Parker's soul nights', in fact the whole night
for me was the nearest thing to those nights that I've been to,
and anyone who knows me or went to that club at its peak will know
what a compliment that is. Great to see and chat so many people I
knew, and great to see everyone so obviously enjoying themselves
and don't worry about being pissed, our kid was worse than you- I
think he kissed everyone in the place-including Gavin , before I
finally dragged him to the car!
Sorry I cant make next month
but will be there in September.
Dave
Ripolles
Hi
Lin & Tait,
Just
like to add to what everyone else has said and Thank you for such
a great night, even if i did crawl into bed at 4.15am:-),for me it
was one of the best soul nights i`ve been to in a long time,the
venue the music, the atmosphere, the dj`s, was totally spot
on,funny that Dave R mentioned liking to Parkers it was exactly
what me and my mate Simon said,might have been the fact that Ray
Rose gave it thatManchester feel?.
Nice
to meet up with people i haven't seen for awhile,Phill &
Annette,Gary S & wife, Roger W & wife, Gavin etc, all in
all a great night,lasting memories whilst driving down the
M6,Gavin playing "Arnies Love"(always reminds me of the
early days,great),Roger W slumped over that red chair:-)(mind you
he made a great recovery when his wife got to him, nice one
mate),and you Lin drinking a pint of beer, Superb!.
Dave
f..
North Devon Soul
NORTH DEVON SOUL CLUB - 6 JULY
- EXETER INN – BARNSTABLE
Starting
with the Press Release - Review by Paul O'Brien follows:
PRESS
RELEASE
This
is……..North Devon Soul……now with hot barbecue
sauce!
North
Devon continues to astonish as a centre for soul lovers with the
huge success of the Barnstaple-based club. The club, held on the
first Friday of each month welcomes all retro music lovers and is
attracting more and more interest from locals and visitors from
all over the UK alike each time it is held.
Next
Friday July 6th includes a packed line-up including the
return of Wendy May, the ex-Capital Radio and London club DJ, Mike
Ashley the organiser of the Weston-super-Mare club ‘Life and
Soul’, as well as regulars Paul O’Brien, Vic the Mad
Mod, John Murch and Paul Diamond. There is a strong likelihood of
another surprise guest, someone special for the northern soul fans
particularly.
Next
week also promises to be even better with the addition of an
all-night barbecue to compliment the top-rate line up of DJ’s
spinning the very best in 60’s soul and pop with the odd
interspersed early 70’s tune for extra spice. The first 10 to
arrive will receive a free burger or veggie burger, steak sandwich
or hot-dog.
There
will also be an area for ‘bring and buy records’ free to
do. So bring out those old 45’s you might be surprised who
wants them, or come along to find those tunes you have missed!
All
are welcome from all backgrounds and age, dressed up or not,
dancers or watchers…Ready, Steady, Steady, GO…its Friday
Friday
6th July at the Exeter Arms, Litchdon Street,
Barnstaple, 8 until past midnight.
THE
EVENT ITSELF:-
Friday
had to be the best night yet ! Very pleasing for a "backwater"
event...it just goes to show that
you never can tell
Apart
from the sterling efforts of the "team" Paul Diamond,
John, Vic & someone called me, we had the added benefit of
some good local newspaper coverage (thanks Brian) & the Exeter
Inn (venue) laid on an excellent bar-b-q.
Most
importantly, a big thank you to the 80 or so soul lovers who
turned up, paid good money & made the event such an ideal
night !
Atmosphere
was buzzing, and was kept up all night by the DJ team.....kicked
off by regulars John, Vic & Paul Diamond, followed by Wendy
May then Mike Ashley (Life & Soul) & Phil Merrill (ex
Twisted Wheel) who put on an outstanding double act which made it
easy for me to follow on keeping the dance floor kicking.
Mike,
you might like to post up the play list from your 'double act'
with Phil it was superb!...I do
remember Bobby Mclure, Big
Wheel, My Petite Chow.
{insert
by Mike ;-
First
two a couple of Ska/Reggae to follow the groove that Wendy was
dropping at the end of her excellent set. Then into Soul - bear in
mind that our brief was to play pretty popular stuff - but we
sneaked in a few.
Girls
Town Ska - Baba Brooks and his Band
How
Long - Pat Kelly
My
man a sweet man - Millie Jackson
Right
Track - Billy Butler
Dearest
One - Lamont Dozier
Bet
you never thought - Gene Chandler
Big
Wheel - Kitty Clark
Girl
across the street - Moses Smith
Landslide
- Tony Clarke
In
Orbit - Joy Lovejoy
Girl
don't make me wait - Bunny Sigler
Hey
- Barbara Mercer
This
thing called love - Johnny Wyatt
Hitchhike
to Heartbreak Road - Bobo Mr Soul
Phil
- will ask him to fill the gaps - I can barely remember my own!!
Darkest
Days - Jackie Lee
I've
Lost you - Jackie Wilson
Bobby
McClure
Kim
Weston
Mon
Petite Chow - Romeos}
I
seem to remember playing;
Kim
Weston, Still Loving You
Kings
of Hearts, A Little Togetherness,
Barefooting,
Robert Parker,
Cant
cut you loose, Otis Redding
Everbodys
going to the love in
Fire,
Ko Ko Taylor
Plus
the others !?
The
venue was packed & again it was good to see such a mix of
ages...We must be doing something right !
{Insert
by Paul Diamond;- Thanks Mike
I
would like to thank you and Dominique for making the effort to
support us. With kids at home it can't be easy.
The
set you played with Phil was absolutely blinding, it was really
mesmerising and had all ears in attention wherever they were in or
out of the room. Maybe you guys have got something started for big
things? In general the do was a 'northern stormer' and the crowd
were right for that. It was good to have so many people say how
much they were enjoying the night.}
Next bash is the first Friday
in August !
Best
Paul
The
previous month June was as follows:-
North
Devon Soul Friday June - 8pm til late, Exeter Inn, Litchdon St,
Barnstaple £3.00 - Northern soul, R'n'B, Boogaloo, 60's Soul
and Funk
Made
the trip down to deepest North Devon to support Paul and the North
Devon crew. Nice 60's feel venue to the venue and there was a
pretty good crowd in although I understand that the numbers were
down a bit.
A
mix of sounds -mostly popular Northern sounds but a mixture of
other stuff thrown in from Motown, Atlantic, bit of funk and a
smattering of Ska.
The
style and vibe of the venue and the enthusiasm of the people
involved gives this place a good deal of potential.
Had
a good night and also met a former Wheel devotee Phil 'Curtis'
Merrell and his wife Dawn. Meet up again Phil - see you at Weston
maybe.
Life & Soul - Sunday Soul
LIFE & SOUL @ BRANNIGAN'S
& NEPTUNE's NOOK – Sundays
It's
been a while since I made any mention of our regular events at
Brannigan's in Bristol and Neptune's Nook in Weston Super Mare.
Both
of these events take place on a Sunday which I appreciate isn't
the best day for travelling. We alternate at each venue - see News
pages and calendar for dates.
Both
events broadly follow the same format in that I give appreciation
to what the punters want to hear, but by and large I have a free
hand and quality Modern Soul sounds are the order of the day.
Most
people seem to want current R'n'B and a lot of this is mixed in,
sometimes we can go for a few oldies. There will always be a few
sounds that you maybe don't want to hear but take a look at the
following list.- all these got played last Sunday 24 June - now
bear in mind that this happens every week - surely that can't be
bad.
Numbers
in aren't brilliant - except bank holidays when we had about 500
in - we normally get 100 or so and most are just chilling out the
weekend - but they get to hear some quality quality sounds.
Good
loving - Ledisi
Creepin
- La Trese
I
got it bad - Maria Howell
This
is your day - Phat Cat Players
Friend
of Mine - Cooly's Hot Box
Undacova
- Love Slave
Drown
Dugar - D'Angelo
I'm
down with this vibe - Star Co
Soul
Heaven - Deep Sensation
Life
and love - Lamar Thomas
Can
I get a witness - Ann Nesby
I'm
so in love with you - Wizdom
U
gave me love - Kenny Bobien
The
Bottle - Maysa Leak
Astounded
- Bran Van 3000
Love
don't love me - Eric Benet
And
from SoulJunkie - Justin:
Groove
Collective - Lift Off
Crusaders
- Keep That Same Old Feeling
Fatback
- You're My Shining Star
Curtis
Mayfield - Tripping Out
Leroy
Hutson - All Because Of You
Brand
New Heavies - Sometimes
Jamiroquai
- Cosmic girl
Incognito
- Everyday
Night
Trains - Lovesick
Musiq
Soulchild - Just Friends
Maxwell
- Ascension
D'Influence
- Rock With You
Erykah
Badu - Bag Lady (Remix)
Jon
B - Dont Talk
Zhane
- Hey Mr DJ
Donell
Jones - U Know What's Up
Next
- Too Close
Rahsaan
Patterson - Where You Are
Sunshine
Anderson - I Heard It All Before
Koffee
Brown - After Party
India
Arie - Video
Damage
- Ghetto Romance
Tower
Of Power - Really Doesn't Matter
Starvue
- Body Fusion
Maze
- Twilight
Atmosphere
- Dancing In Outer Space
Shaun
Escoffrey - Space Rider
MAW/Jody
Watley/Roy Ayers - Love To Love
Bob
Sinclair - Darlin
Joi
Cardwell - Let It Go
Bobby
Mardis - Keep On
Jill
Scott - Gettin In The Way (Dodge mix)
I'm missing out most of the
current R'n'B and requests.
Life & Soul IV
LIFE
& SOUL IV FRIDAY 15 JUNE 2001 - ROZEL HOTEL WESTON SUPER
MARE
As
usual quality sounds were played all night from the popular, to
the rare and some just a little bit different. All DJ's did
excellent and varied sets and maybe they will send me there play
lists for me to post. Thanks to Dave Farrell for his debut set
standing in for Simon Green at late notice, Ross with his usual
expertise for hitting the right spot, John Nightingale for his
brand of 70's Northern, a surprise (and sadly short - due to time)
set by Phil Merrell - who actually dj'ed at the Twisted Wheel -
and Mark for a stonking ending.
Big
thanks to all who came - (and I'm bound to miss people here, my
apologies) - especially Paul O'Brien from deepest Devon, and his
mates from Cheltenham and elsewhere, Neil Self from Cheltenham,
Phil and Dawn from Barnstable, All those from Cornwall - Falmouth
and Newquay - good on ya' for travelling so far, it is much
appreciated.
My
two short sets included:-
Ballads
- I can't see your love
Bobbie
Brown - I gotta have you
OV
Wright - Love the way you love
Three
Karats - Yes I Will
Variations
- Yesterday is gone
Geraldine
Hunt - Just believe in me
Inez
& Charlie Foxx - No stranger to love
Third
Guitar - Sad Girl
Johnny
Sayles - I can't get enough
Temptations
- I gotta find a way
Smokey
& Miracles - Soulful Shack
Soul
Children - We're getting too close
Johnny
Copeland - Suffering City
TSU
Toronados - What Good am I
Patrice
Holloway - That's all you got to do
Buckner
Brothers - A change is gonna come
Al
Greene - Don't leave me
Johnny
Taylor & Carla Thomas - Just keep on loving me
Second
set:-
Irma
Thomas - What are you trying to do
Kitty
Clark - Big Wheel
Moses
Smith - Girl across the street
Jesse
Boone - I got to love you
Billy
Butler - Can't live without her
Barbara
Mercer - Hey
Capreez
- Soulsation
Bobo
Mr Soul - Hitch hike to heartbreak road
Otis
Redding – Demonstration
Despite
our biggest promotion exercise numbers were unfortunately a bit
down, although there were sufficient through the door to have a
good time -thanks to them. We posted details on about 8 web sites,
were on 2 Northern chat groups, we dropped flyers at Cheltenham,
Cardiff, Gloucester, Barnstable, 100 Club, we advertised in local
press, and put posters up all around town, plus Blues and Soul. We
also spread the word by talking to people, emailing and telephone
- feedback received was promising generally. We had good reviews
on several websites and Soul Up North magazine. We didn't clash
with anything nearby, we co-operated with local promoters but hey,
we all had a good time.
We've
set up this venue on the basis of what people have told us they
want. However, if Weston is wrong or the venue is wrong or the
format please let me know. We're taking a break now until the
Autumn because venues are difficult through the summer, and then
we'll be back.
Our
residences at Brannigans in Bristol and Neptune's Nook will
continue, as will our Summer Soul event in Bordeaux in August.
A
note below from John Nightingale
Mike,
Thanks for a great
nite on the 15th it's just a pity that more people couldn't
get out to support it, but hey that's their loss. I thought
that there was a good selection played by the other DJ's
especially Mark all in all a top nite and well worth the two
hour drive home. Any way here's my play list for the night hope
you enjoyed it
John's selection in no
particular order :-
Eddie Holman - I Surrender
– ABC
Shane Martin - I need you –
Epic
Marlena Shaw - Let's wade in
the water – Cadet
Nancy Wilson - The end of our
love – Capitol
Bobby Sheen - Something new to
do - Warner Brothers
Harold Melvin & the
Bluenotes - Get out (and let me cry) - Landa - My all time Fave!
Betty Harris - I'm evil
tonight – Sansu
Rosey Jones - Have love will
travel – Today
Nolan Porter - If I could only
be sure – ABC
Channel 3 - The sweetest thing
- SCSC - For Falmouth's finest on her Birthday!
Carol James - How old
!!!!!!?
The Intruders - A nice girl
like you - Philadelphia International
The Invitations - Look on the
good side - Silver Blue
Ace Spectrum - Don't send
nobody else - Atlantic - Big tune on the nite
21st Century - Coming right
back – Dot
Johnny Moore - Lonely hearts
in the city - Blue Rock
Johnny Baker - Shy guy - Fog
City
Percy & Them - Look in the
mirror of my eyes – Roulette
Chuck Ray - Baby, please don't
go – Buddah
Moses Smith - Come on and let
me love you - Cotillion - emptied the floor
but I can't think why!
OC Smith - On easy street –
Columbia
Ujima - I'm not ready –
Epic
Betty Lavette - You'll wake up
wiser – Atco
I don't think I've missed
any see you all soon
Peace we out
John
Cheltenham Charity
Charity
do - Sept 15th - Somerset Inn, Leckhampton, Cheltenham
Just
a "quickie" to say THANK YOU to all those who turned out
on Friday night for our little bash in Cheltenham at the Somerset
Arms in support of their fund for OAP outings (we're all getting
there).
The function room was full to capacity of 70/80
which was a great surprise bearing in mind there was a lot else on
and the weather was good.
Thanks
to fellow DJ's Al Davison, Phil Taylor & first timers Ray
Jackson & Taxi Tony, also Mike Venn for standing in at short
notice for Hippo.
Nice
selection of tunes including A>C. Reid, Terry Callier, Peter
Klint, Betty Swann, Bobby Williams.
Nice to see Pete French
& his lady, Budgie, some of the Gloucester Crew, Mike Ashley &
Dominique from Weston.
Next
one will be on September 15th a month before the next Cheltenham
Saracens with Steve Whittle guesting (always ensures a good
night).
Best
Paul
Sugarman 3
SUGARMAN
3 - SEVERNSHED BRISTOL 20 May 2001
This
was a great night - more of that later. First lets tackle some
negatives - none of which was anything to do with the band. The
attendance was poor - this may be due to the apathetic nature of a
Bristol audience, or the fact that it was a sunny day, or that it
was a Sunday, or that the promotion was lacking somewhere, or, to
be honest, they are not that well known a band in this area.
Anyway
it was such a shame because everybody missed a great two sets by
the New York based Sugarman 3. Fresh (well maybe not!) from two
successful nights at the Jazz Cafe and a hugely successful gig in
Plymouth and great success in Spain we were treated to a
magnificent performance by the four Sugarman 3!
Hammond,
sax (couple of flute), guitar and drums - everyone was so
accomplished and tight whether performing their own material or
not.
Everyone
- and I think I can say that almost unreservedly - who was there
including the staff were being quietly appreciative - in a
reserved Bristol fashion, but eventually with the help of a couple
of extroverts the place started to come alive and the dance floor
filled.
Whether
slow, uptempo, own compositions, or obscure covers, or Hammond led
- or sax led or just a plain down home groove the band were
excellent.
I
do hope they will be back because everybody who was there had a
great night, which also attests the professionalism of Neal
Sugarman and the band.
Musiq Soulchild
MUSIQ
SOULCHILD- FLEECE BRISTOL 30 April 2001
I
consider Musiq Soulchild to be big or at least potentially big -
so an opportunity to see him particularly locally was a must
I
have the album, like the album, but am not overly enthusiastic
about it. I am not sure about this conversational type lyric style
a la Jill Scott. It sounds to me sometime as if it's just words,
everyday happenings and so on sung over a beat, and not a song-
does this make sense? You know what I mean - 'I went down to catch
a bus and met a beautiful l.a.y.d.e.e.and we just got into a
conversay - shun etc etc'.
Having
said that it is a style and he has a great voice, and he is
destined for big things.
I was surprised therefore to see
that he was performing at a pub in Bristol, albeit one with a
reputation for live music.
But
he did and he was excellent - tight backing band and backing
vocals he performed a slick professional and soulful performance.
One of the beauties of these 'small' gigs is that they are more
intimate and you have a better opportunity to see and feel the
performance.
Enthusiastic crowd (for Bristol anyway 'cos
we're a pretty unenthusiatic bunch!) and a good one for a Monday
night, saw Musiq take them with him. He did most of his album and
the quality shone through. I think maybe in the light of this I
will be able to listen and appreciate the album in a different
light.
Top stuff
That Beatin’ Rhythm
That
Beating Rhythm - Saracens Cheltenham - 13 April 2001 featuring Ian
Levine
Once
again a great night at the Saracens - Thanks to Pete Neil and
Hippo and a slammin' set by Ian Levine mixing some popular oldies
and some of obscure 'newies'. I thought most of the ones that I
weren't familiar with were excellent and were Northern Soul and
not the R'n'B that other places are dropping right now. A
thoughtful and professional set. Some words follow as posted to
the Advanced Northern Soul site from Pete French - including Ian's
playlist.
the
night started very well with quite a few early arrivals - hippo
and Neil doing the early hard work
Ian
arrived safely (which is good as I forgot to send directions) he
said the hadn't had a detour so the pink pyjamas stayed in the bag
- I managed 3/4 hour then handed it to Ian - I was a little bit
worried that he wouldn't play to the crowd
BUT
YES BUT
He
surprised me and is a very capable skilled DJ keeping the floor
filled whilst still mixing it up with unknowns
A
BIG WELL DONE IAN
I
recommend all you promoters out there to book him
oh
and Neil finished off with a mostly modern set to keep everyone
happy - the only weird bit was Paul obrien constantly walking
around singing - "nobody knows what's going on in my mind but
me"!!!!!
for
the last hour, as this wasn't played I totally agree!
hope
to see everyone at the next one
Pete
the carrot cruncher
This
is the EXACT list in order. Please remember there HAD to be some
oldies.
EARL
JACKSON - SOUL SELF SATISFACTION - ABC
THE
BLENDELS - YOU NEED LOVE - DONTEE
BARBARA
LYNN - MOVING ON A GROOVE - JETSTREAM
BILLY
WOODS - LET ME MAKE YOU HAPPY - SUSSEX
THE
FOUR VANDALS - THE WRONG SIDE OF TOWN - BOARDWALK
THE
MAGNIFICENT MEN - KEEP ON CLIMBING - CAPITOL
ANN
ROBINSON - WORLD OF HAPPINESS - HARTHON
CHUBBY
AND THE TURNPIKES - I DIDN'T TRY - CAPITOL
JOHNNY
WYATT - THIS THING CALLED LOVE - BRONCO
JOE
VALENTINE - I LOST THE ONLY LOVE I HAD - VAL
YVONNE
BAKER - YOU DIDN'T SAY A WORD - PARKWAY
CELEST
HARDIE - YOU'RE GONE - REYNOLDS
LINDA
LLOYD - BREAKAWAY - COLUMBIA
DEON
JACKSON - SOMEDAY THE SUN WILL SHINE - CARLA
BERNIE
WILLIAMS - EVER AGAIN - BELL
THE
FABULOUS KAYS - TAKE ME BACK - METRO (acetate)
JAT
TRAYNOR - UP AND OVER - ABC
THE
CONSTELLATIONS - I DON'T KNOW ABOUT YOU - GEMINI STAR
ESTHER
PHILLIPS - JUST SAY GOODBYE - ATLANTIC
FRANKIE
AND JOHNNY - I'LL HOLD YOU - HICKORY
BRENDA
AND THE SENTRIES - DON'T MAKE ME LIE - BEE
POOKIE
HUDSON - THIS GETS TO ME - JAMIE
THE
STEELERS - DISTURBING THOUGHTS - AMG
JACK
MONTGOMERY - DEARLY BELOVED - SCEPTER
SKIP
JACKSON AND THE SHANTONS - I'M ON TO YOU GIRL - DOT-MAR
PATTI
AUSTIN - I'VE GIVEN ALL MY LOVE - CORAL
SANDY
WYNNS - TOUCH OF VENUS - DOC
THE
ORLONS - ENVY IN MY EYES - CAMEO
BOBBY
FREEMAN - I GOT A GOOD THING - LOMA
EULA
COOPER - LET OUR LOVE GROW HIGHER - SUPER SOUND
THE
DECISIONS - STOP PLAYING AROUND - SUSSEX
THE
TEMPTONES - GIRL I LOVE YOU - ARCTIC
TIPPI
SAUNDERS - WHEN YOU GONNA TELL HER - TRIDENT
BOBBY
TREETOP - WAIT TILL I GET TO KNOW YA - TUFF
ROBERT
DOBYNE - I CAN'T GET ALONG WITHOUT YOU - KAMA SUTRA
JIM
GILSTRAP - RUN RUN RUN - BELL
KARMELLO
BROOKS - TELL ME BABY - MILESTONE
DAVID
RHODES - HUNG UP IN MID-AIR - CHI-CITY
GLORIA
JONES - COME GO WITH ME - UPTOWN
M4 Soul Club
M4
Soul Club Cardiff - 7 April 2001
A
last minute decision to go took me to Cardiff to support Mark and
the Guys - big turnout of most of us from Sunny Weston.
Unfortunately had to leave before the last couple of spots but I
am assured that I missed the best bits.
Also
free Cd featuring the top sounds of the people involved with this
venture, this being their first anniversary.
Some
quality stuff played by each DJ - and each DJ seemed to have an
individual style or preferences so this made for a varied night.
Guest for the night was Sam Moore who played a well received set.
Life & Soul III
Life
& Soul III - Rozel Hotel - 31 March 2001
Stuck
my neck out for this one but it was reasonably successful with
about 55 through the door and even if I say so myself I think the
track selection by the DJ's was exceptional. Thanks to Justin,
Steve and (added at short notice and did not disappoint) John
Nightingale. Let the sounds speak for themselves:-
Playlists
from a weekend of Soul in Weston Super Mare
Life
& Soul III - Rozel Hotel - 31 March
Mike
- opening and closing sets - mixed and in no particular order
I
was telling her about you - Na Allen
Rainy
night in Harlem – Transitions
Charles
Wilson - Trying to make a wrong thing right
Deja
Vu - E Smoove
So
very hot - Elisha Laverne
Trying
to love two - William Bell
Everyday
- Darwin Hobbs
I
know you I live you - Yolanda Wynn
Let
it go - Joi Cardwell
We're
gettin too close - Soul Children
Something
for my head - Bobby Womack
I
got to love you - Jesse Boone & The Astros
Blow
my mind - Lost Family
New
Breed kinda woman - Holland Dozier
Home
is where the heart is - Bobby Womack
Seven
Day Lover - James Fountain
I'm
falling for you - Michael Jay Coleman
How
Long – LV
After
Party - Koffee Brown
Woman's
gotta have it –LV
Up
and outta here - R Kelly
I'll
go - Donell Jones
Why
you acting shady – Latanya
Girl
you cheated on me – Presidents
Main
String - Oscar Perry
This
love is real - Donny Mann
Little
Angel - Joe Matthews
Girl
I love you - Shelly Fisher
Baby
let me get close to you - Baby Washington & Don Gardner
Life
goes on - Loiue Vega & Arnold Jarvis (7" version -
closing record)
Justin
- Souljunkie - Bristol & Ipswich
Monday
Michuru - You Make Me Wanna
Tower
Of Power - It Really Doesn't Matter
Walter
Jackson - Touching In The Dark
Funkmaster
Flex/Faith Evans - Good Life
Wizdom
- I'm So In Love With You
Collins
& Collins - Top Of The Stairs
Bobby
Womack - So Many Sides Of You
Gerry
Devaux - Front Of The Line
Sydney
Joe Qualls - I Don't Do This
100%
Pure Poison - You Keep Coming Back
Corey
Blake - How Can I Go On Without You
Atlantic
Starr - You
Rahsaan
Patterson - Where You Are
Dee
Dee Warwick - Funny How We Change Places
Larry
Saunders - On The Real Side
Steve
Harry - Swindon
Garland
Green - Don't let love walk out on us
Margie
Joseph - One More Chance
Jackie
Wilson - I Can Feel Those Vibrations
Carol
Anderson - Sad Girl
Midnight
- Keep On Walking By
Dorothy
Morrison - I Can't Go Without You
Jeff
Perry - Love Don't Come No Stronger
Rare
Essence - Let Me Down Easy
Bill
- Space Lady
Ace
Spectrum - Don't Send Nobody Else
Main
Ingredient - Evening of Love
Mandrill
- Too Late
Impressions
- I'll Always Be Here
Little
Dooley - Now or Never
Randy
Brown - Always In The Mood
Melba
Moore - The Way You Make Me Feel.
We
The People - Making My Daydream Real.
John
Nightingale - Newquay & Weston
The
Originals - Temporarily out of order - Fantasy LP
Starvue
- Body fusion - MIR
Arthur
Miles - Helping hand - FFR 12"
Watergates
- Never going to give you up - 12"
Percy
and them - Look in the mirror of my eyes - Roulette
Louis
Vega & Arnold Jarvis- Life goes on - 12"
Bobby
Womack - Trust your heart - Columbia
Silk
- I can't stop (turnin' you on) - PIR
Temptations
- The Jones' - Motown 12"
Skip
Mahoney - Janice - Salsoul 12"
Cynthia
Biggs Project ft Sharon Bryant - No one like you - 12"
Bob
Sinclair ft James "D-Train" Williams - Darlin' - 12"
Jean
Carn - My love don't come easy - PIR
Ivan
Nevilles - Dance your blues away - Cookie
Lew
Kirton - Heaven in the afternoon - Alston
Neptune's
Nook -1 April - includes quite a bit of commercial but hey not a
bad Sunday Night - better than your average pub! This is a
weekly event -
every Sunday and free.
Ghetto
Child – Spinners
One
of a kind – Spinners
Let's
stay together - Al Green
Rainy
Night in Harlem – Transitions
Waiting
for you – Jaheim
Remarkable
– Jaheim
Love
is all we need - Mary J Blige
Hey
Mr DJ – Zhane
Seeing
is beleiving - Adrianna Evans
All
night long - Mary J Blige
Head
over Heals - Allure
Why
you acting shady – Latanya
Give
me just a little more time - Chairmen of the Boar
I
get the sweetest feelin - Jackie Wilson
Forgive
me - Lynden David Hall
Shining
Star - Earth Wind & Fire
Rising
to the top - Keni Burke
Footsteps
following me - Frances Nero
Everybody's
got summer - Atlantic Starr
Mama
used to say - Junior Giscombe
Cisselin
Hot - Chuck Cissel
Sixth
Street - Mica Paris
Yours
faithfully - Rebbie Jackson
Every
day - Darwin Hobbs
On
and on - Erykah Badu
Gettin'
in the way - Jill Scott
No
more rain - Angie Stone
How
Long - LV
After
Party - Koffee Brown
Let's
get down - Toni Tony Tone
Desire - Nu Colours
Edwin Starr
Oasis
Nightclub - Weston Super Mare 30 March 2001 featuring Edwin Starr
Edwin
Starr was there to reopen this nightspot in Weston - Not sure why
Edwin was chosen as I don't think this has any objectives in
becoming a soul venue. Opening also were a local band which were
outside the scope of these pages ( to put it nicely!)
Anyway
having seen Edwin many times but not for quite a few years was
happy to support this. Edwin as professional as ever sang over
backing tracks and the audience were very supportive and he had
them eating out of his hands - he did the usual disco stuff and
then the Motown/northern section. He then cut the DJ and performed
accapella for quite and bit - and it was impressive showing that
he still possesses that distinctive voice.
Watchet Soul Club
Watchet
Soul Club - March 24 2001
Brief
plug for Pete and the boys. I wasn't able to go myself but
Dominique went down, ably supported by Zorha. Dominique reported a
good night although initially it looked as if this French
contingent would outnumber the English. Not so once things got
going she had a great time.
Pete should be commended for
this venture as Watchet in the Deepest South West is small and a
bit off the beaten track - hopefully the enthusiasm and top sounds
will see this event continuing
M&R’s Greenwich Village
M&R's,
Greenwich Village New York
Thanks
to Kym for arranging this, Noah for driving around and Lex for
letting me do a slot.
This
is basically a restaurant - no dance floor - in the village where
Lex spins his brand of predominantly 60's, much with a Salsa South
American tinge. I took over midway through the night and played an
assortment of 'northern' type material.
I
seemed to go down pretty well with a few comments and gestures of
appreciation and a few bums-a-wiggling.
My selections as
follows:-
Get
Involved - George Soule
Seven
Day Lover - James Fountain
Let
me Love Yuh - Innersection
I
got to love you - Jesse Boone & The Astros
I'm
in love with you - Bobby Patterson
Bet
you never thought - Gene Chandler
Love
takes a long time growing - Deon Jackson
Dearest
one - Lamont Dozier
Girl
Across the Street - Moses Smith
Hey
Love (I wanna thank you) - Moses Smith
Baby
Boy - Juanita Wlliams
Hey
- Barbara Mercer
Poor
Unfortunate Me - JJ Barnes
Sippin
Wine - Johnny Lemac
Walking
up a one way street - Willie Tee
Don't
give me love - Dorothy Beery
You're
love keeps drawing me closer - Johnson, Hawkins, Tatum & Durr
Big
Wheel - Kitty Clark
Surprise
Party for Baby - Vibrations*
I'm
gonna miss you - Artistics*
Focused
on you - Bernard Williams & Original Blue Notes*
Hitch
Hike to Heartbreak Road - Bobo Mr Soul
*
I honestly can't remember whether I managed to fit these three in
- I intended to even if I didn't!!!!!
Bar 13 Greenwich Village
Bar
13, Greenwich Village, New York
The
following night we went to a New York sixties event, set in an
upstairs lounge bar with a British 60's feel to it with low
seating. British 60's on the TV screen as well - Doctor in the
House? - or some such thing with Susan George!
A
low turn out apparently but the weather was bad but there was
still enough for some moving and a grooving. Michael - one of the
DJ's and a great soul fan and collector- played some excellent
sounds in a Northern vein, partly I feel because we were
introduced and he knew I would like that kind of thing. He also
played some French stuff which was above my head but to please
Dominique. The French 60's kistch thing seems to be big in New
York with albums selling for a good many dollars. It fits in at
something like this as a mod style , European, 60's
thing.
Otherwise music was very much mod style, boogaloo,
soul and mostly quite good and acceptable and nice to hear except
for one or two excursions into no mans land - especially the
British 70's glam rock phase!. Fortunately this was short and I'm
not quite sure of the logic of where this fits in.
I
expect we were laughed at for our Northern dancing but all in all
an enjoyable night.
Life & Soul II
Life
& Soul II - The Rozel Hotel, Weston Super Mare, Friday 23rd
February 2001
We,
Dominique and I, would like to thank Mark, Ross, Simon for their
help and enthusiasm on Friday. Thanks also to Michelle and Jason
for spreading the word. A review follows by Mark White for a
degree of impartiality.
'It's
official! Northern Soul is alive, well and thriving in
.........Somerset? Yes! Somerset!
Mike
Ashley and the wonderful Dominique were the hardy souls behind a
real kick ass Northern nite last Friday. This is a lively crowd
who like their soul with a big dose of Northern. I arrived just
before 10pm (result of a busy day up and down the M4 - sorry
Mike!) and the place was pretty heaving already. Nice venue in the
basement of a seafront hotel, small with a good dancefloor in the
corner. Simon Green from Swindon was keeping the floor busy with a
mix of popular and nice oldies (Diane Newby on Kapp, Darrell
Banks, Betty Lavette "Stand Up Like A Man", Patrice
Holloway "Love & Desire", Lee David "Temptation",
Gene Chandler "Big Shot", Patti Austin "Someone's
Gonna Cry")
Next
up was yours truly - uptempo 60s was definitely the order of the
day and Stafford seemed the era of a lot of these punters (Gordon
Keith, The Victors) as well as some classics from earlier years
(Martha Star "No Part Time Love", Ad Libs "New York
In The Dark", Servicemen "Helping Hand") and more
recent big spins (Danny Woods, Tammy Wayne) finishing off with the
orgasmic Esther Phillips "Just Say Goodbye".
Local
lad, Ian "Ross" Rossiter took over spinning some of the
popular oldies - stand out tracks included the previously unissued
Melba Moore anthem "Magic Touch" on Kent and Jimmy Raye
"Philly Dog" - was it a real one or a pressing!!? Ross
kept them moving.
Simon
stepped up for his second spot, a blinder! Big oldies and current
spins - kicked off with Billy Thompson on Wand (so hard), then
onto Connie Questel on Decca, Danny Moore "Something New",
Jack Montgomery "Dearly Beloved", Charles Lamont "I
Got To Keep Moving" (awesome!), Soul Bros Six "I'll Be
Loving You" (sublime!), Tommy Navarro (classic!), Sissie
Houston "Don't Come Running To Me" (wow!), Anne Hayward
"Little Finger" (wow!), Othello Robinson "So In
Luv" (brilliant!). What a spot from Swindon's finest.
Host,
Mike Ashley kept it moving with an imaginative set - sorry Mike!
Can't remember many titles but I do know her put on the Vibrations
on Neptune but on the wrong side!! A class record nonetheless and
a possible newie!! He also finished with the wonderful and obscure
Lamont Dozier on Melody "Dearest One" - very classy
early Motown proving that DJs out here in the sticks are prepared
to put class above popularity. This record kept the floor full and
it is a healthy scene when 45s of that quality are still being
accepted and appreciated.
It
was my privilege to fill the last half hour of a really enjoyable
evening with an enthusiastic crowd. Seven Souls, Freddie North,
Brice Coefield, Elbie Parker, Debonairs on Soul Click Masqueraders
"How", Cindy Lynn "Meet Me At Midnight" all
conspired to make the floor shake mixed in with slightly lower key
sounds like Annabelle Fox "Lonely Girl". I finished the
night off with George Smith "I've Had It", September
Jones revived biggie "I'm Coming Home" (already a firm
favourite of the Bristol and Weston regulars who come over the
bridge to Cardiff), Jimmy Soul Clark "Champion" and
Jimmy Stokes' wonderful deep voiced mid-tempo obscurity on Siana
"Keep On Going".
All
in all a great night out in a smart venue with an enthusiastic
crowd. A lot of this lot come over from Watchet nearby, so a plug
for their next bash coming up on Saturday 24th March at
the Anchor until 3am. If it's anything like Weston last Friday,
it's one not to be missed. I can't wait for Mike and Dominique's
next Weston night either. Hats off to them for a superb Northern
do. '
Thanks
Mark - Dominique wonderful? - If you say so!!!!!
Oh What a Night
Oh!
What a Night -Bristol Hippodrome -21 February, 2001
Featuring
Kid Creole, this actually turned out to be very enjoyable. The
cast was largely made up of UK actors and dancers of varying
pedigree and the play started off quite slow and it was only about
half way through the first act that it really got going but once
it did the pace picked up all the way. It was a romp through 1976
disco and soul but the storyline, although predictable and pretty
corny, helped keep your attention. The cast were individually not
brilliant but the enthusiasm and choreography and the songs won
through.
The
exception of course was Kid Creole who was slick smart and Cool -
very professional and a good singer.
Musically
there was no surprises as you'd expect and all were well known to
a diverse audience. It was the first night - a Tuesday and not the
best night - and it looked like concessions were readily
available. The crowd were won over and it seemed to me that the
cast were genuinely surprised and appreciative of the reception
they were given.
M4 Soul Club
M4
Soul Club - Riverbank Hotel, Cardiff - Saturday 10th
February 2001 (by Mark White)
This
event has been running for nearly a year now and seems to have
established a regular following. The venue is small but creates a
good atmosphere with low ceilings, dark corners etc giving it that
feel of an old cellar 60s soul club. Promoter, Mark White and M4
Soul Club regulars, Mike Wilks, Tony Voyce, John Browne, Simon
Green, Edwin and Wazzy have now firmly set out a stall rooted
predominantly in 60s with a sprinkling of 70s and crossover -
quality oldies from all eras and current big sounds. Although not
able to boast the sort of exclusives, one-offs and cover-ups
available at cutting edge venues like the 100 Club, Lea Manor or
London's Capitol Soul Club, the approach is traditional northern
spinning 60s newies, superb soul and pounding R&B. The venue
is gaining in popularity as a result.
On
the decks last Saturday was South Wales stalwart and legend Mike
Wilks, claiming this was his swansong though Mark White, in his
tribute to Mike towards the end of the night, doubted whether Mike
would carry this through!! Mike's set was quality as usual
including Soul Communicators - Lonely Night, The Ringleaders on
M-Pac, Brothers of Soul - I'd Be Grateful and a clutch of the
Motown sounds he loves so much and now wishes to concentrate on
collecting. As usual, Wilksy had them on the floor.
Edwin
turned in his usual mix of surprises - how this guy slipped
through the net as a top newies DJ is beyond comprehension.
Amongst a floor punishing set, the outstanding 45 was the very
hard Otis Lee - Hard Road To Hoe.
Wazzy
helped pump it up with some nice oldies and was responsible for
bringing in the special guest for the night, Tony Warot from
Bedford. Outstanding tracks from him included Dorothy Williams -
Wells Gone Dry, already a Riverbank favourite.
Mark
White rounded the night off as usual with sounds such as Debonairs
on Soul Click, EJ & The Echoes - You're Gonna Hurt, O'Jays -
No Time For You and a special request for old friends Ian &
Nicky all the way up from Cornwall after a long lay-off from the
scene, Gladys Knight & The Pips - Stop & Get A Hold.
George Smith (I've Had It) went out for stalwart M4 Soul Club
supporter Simon Green and the evening finished off with the
current biggie from September Jones (I'm Coming Home) and the
Riverbank's usual ender, Jimmy Stokes - Keep On Going.
The
condensation on the walls and mirrors was testimony to how much
the night was enjoyed. The Mod crowd who turned up from the
Scooter Club night which was running just along the road and ended
at 12 expressed their regret that they hadn't arrived earlier. Get
along. This is a quality Northern Soul night.
Next
night is the 1st Anniversary on Saturday 7th April (9pm to 1am)
with a free M4 Soul Club CD being dished out. Further details -
contact Mark White on 01446 746893 (e-mail
mark@white498.fsnet.co.uk)
Soul Train
Soul
Train -Bristol Hippodrome -9 February, 2001
This
stage show was a romp through popular soul classics with Sheila
Ferguson formerly of the Three Degrees and ten other UK singer,
actor, dancers and a 7 piece band.
The
show actually was OK and the audience seemed to appreciate it. To
this discerning ear there was enough to keep you interested and
some good spots but on the whole it was pretty mainstream, which
is really what you expect for this type of show - to appeal to the
masses.
After
all it has to fill large arenas across the UK and for two shows a
night. In that respect therefore you can't knock it because it
helps spread the Soul word.
The
highs for me:-
1)
I didn't think I would be saying this but Sheila Ferguson can
still cut it as a Soul Singer. On a couple of numbers particularly
Misty Blue she gave excellent soulful vocal performances. If only
she was still doing this, given that she's been pretty middle of
the road post her Neptune days- or is that a bit harsh because the
Degrees were partly responsible for the Philadelphia International
rise.
2)
AJ Lewis was an excellent singer and he really does have a good
voice and the material he lead on was well suited to his voice. A
very good find.
3)
the way each lead was suited to the material they led on - this
gave the show a professional edge and the singers were therefore
comfortable on their songs.
The
lows:-
1)
I'm sorry but the band did nothing for me. Individually they were
OK but they came across as a professional showband and as a result
they had no Soul, and that's what it was supposed to be about.
They did a version of Memphis Soul Stew - wasn't it a pity that
they didn't listen to the original to discover how to put together
a Soul Band. Apart from Night Train when the brass was allowed to
cut loose a bit - Dull. Any competent musician can play the notes
but Soul is a feeling ..it comes from Deep inside.
2)
the second lead female, Roni Bruno, after Sheila, that is didn't
do it for me, although Dominique liked her. I thought Veronica
Hart was better but her voice was probably a bit too distinctive
for a lead role.
The
rest was average to good. They all paid their part quite well, the
Colin Roy, the lead male was competent. Some songs were good but
they tended to be the Solo efforts and not the group ones. The
humour was pretty average really and the choreography was, for
these days, pretty standard fare. The social comment was a nice
touch- otherwise it was hardly challenging. The mix of songs was
predictable but quite good although the timeline went a bit awry
some of the time! The singer who the crowd took to was Melanie
Marshall - for me not sure - she did 'Stay with me' and it was OK
but didn't sound right - a bit operatic perhaps as opposed to
Soulful. The bass singer Fraser Collins was pretty good too.
Reasonable
entertainment
Weston Rare Soul
WESTON
RARE SOUL REVIEW - Cellar Bar - Weston Super Mare - 8 & 15
February 2001
15
February
February
15 another good night with a slightly more varied playlist than
the previous week when it was more R'n'B and obscure 60's with
Mark White and Mark Thomas from Cardiff. This week Dave Farrell
and Ian Rossiter brought some sounds. I played the following in no
particular order:
The
Bottle - Maysa Leak
Been
thinking about you - Martine Girault
Good
Life - Faith Evans
Can't
hide love - N'dea Davenport
I'm
so in love with you - Wizdom
Enough
is enough - Dennis Taylor
Do
I qualify - Lynden David Hall
Tell
me what you like - Joy Enriquez
Sexy
Dancer - Ideal
Nasty
- Profyle & Monifah
Yours
Faithfully - Rebbie Jackson
Return
to the valley of Out come the freaks - Was Not Was
A
rainy night (in Harlem) - Transitions
I
just can't speak - Jimmy Bo Horne
Don't
leave me - Al Greene & the Soul Mates
Let
me love yuh - Innersection
I'm
in debt to you - Innersection
I'm
a sad girl - Deena Johnson
I
can feel the ice melting - Parliaments
Seems
like I gotta do wrong - Whispers
Love
takes a long time growing - Deon Jackson
I'm
gonna miss you - Artistics
90%
of me is you - Gwen McCrae
Under
your powerful love - Joe Tex
New
Breed kinda woman - Holland Dozier
Hey
- Barbara Mercer
Big
Limas - Cobra Kings
Poor
unfortunate me - JJ Barnes
Dearest
One - Lamont Dozier
Leaving
here - Eddie Holand
I
want to know - Sugar Pie Desanto
Night
Train - James Brown
Tit
for Tat - James Brown
I'll
make the living - Gene Chandler
My
Girl - Temptations
If
you don't come - Patience Valentine
When
I think of my baby - Jesse Graham
Straight
F**cking - Transitions
Something
for everyone I think
8
February
This
proved to be a much better Venue than the Balmoral with it's own
purpose built Sound System
The
select band of Soulies duly arrived at hit Weston with some
massive sounds to get Weston moving and a grooving. Hopefully
numbers will pick up especially if we can hang on to this until
the summer, because you'd be hard pressed to hear better sounds,
with open decks and enthusiasm of everyone involved this certainly
has possibilities. Also scope to play stuff that you wouldn't
ordinarily get away with. We appreciate that it's midweek which
makes it difficult but people travelled from Cardiff, Bristol and
next time hopefully Swindon. Dave Farrell, Jason Starr, Mark White
and Mark Thomas and myself, Mike all played some sounds. A Mark
White list appears on the Northern Page.
Weston Soul Night
WESTON
SOUL NITE - Balmoral Hotel - Weston Super Mare - 18 January 2001
The
initial informal soul nite started with the small but select
Weston Soul Massive!
Dave and Jason brought a box
of records and played some of their favourites. The night was
spent chatting about the scene and what we want to see backed by
some top sounds. An enjoyable night was had by all and hopefully
this will be the first of many. Everyone welcome. Thanks to
Michelle for her enthusiasm.
Andy Sheppard
ANDY
SHEPPARD - Severnshed - Bristol - 31 December 2000
This
is only peripherally relevant to the site but I'll mention it
nonetheless because it was a cracking gig to see the new year in.
Jazz instrumentalist Andy Sheppard rocked the house with some
mindblowing jazz in a funk and club style. This was an excellent
way to see in the new year after Roni Size and Represent had made
Bristol forget the wet, with his unique sound, a couple of hours
previously. If you get the chance to see Andy do his 'club' gig
take it!
That Beatin’ Rhythm
BEATING
RHYTHM - SUB-TONE - CHELTENHAM - 27 December 2000
Review
by Jerry 'Hippo' Hipkiss
Well,
what a blinder we had!!
Over
300 in a pretty small venue, packed, sweaty and loud!! Yes, there
were some outsiders in, only to be expected in a town centre
venue, but in the main they got into it and didn't take the piss
(never a good move with our scene) - and if one person had enough
of a time to try again then it's new blood.
Here's
my set list for the night:
Ø
The Diplomats -
Honest to goodness (Minit)
Ø
> The Ethics
- Standing in the darkness (Vent)
Ø
> Syl Johnson
- That's why (Twinight)
Ø
> Marjorie
Black - One more hurt (Sue)
Ø
> Ernie
Marbray - Ain't nobodys business (Wee)
Ø
> Bob Relf -
Blowing my mind to pieces (Trans American)
Ø
> Buster and
Eddie - Can't be still (Class)
Ø
> Johnny
Wyatt - This thing called love (President)
Ø
> The
Olympics - That same old thing (Mirwood)
Ø
> Rick, Robin
and Him - 'Cause you know me (V.I.P)
Ø
> The
Ringleaders - Baby what has happened (M-Pac)
Ø
> The Ivorys
- Please stay (Kent)
Ø
> Otis Smith
- Let her go (Perception)
Ø
> Tobi Lark -
Happiness is here (Topper)
Ø
> Billy
Hambric - She said goodbye (Drum)
Ø
> Dickie
Wonder - Nobody knows (Sound of Soul)
Ø
> Syng
McGowan - That's what I want (Hope)
Ø
> Koko Taylor
- Fire (Checker)
Ø
> Epitome of
sound - You don't love me (Sandbag)
Ø
> Bob Brady -
More more more of your love (Chariot)
Ø
> Soul Gents
- Wonders of love (Fros-Ray)
Ø
> Larry
Laster - Go for yourself (Loma)
Ø
> Ike and
Tina Turner - Dust my broom (Tangerine)
Ø
> The
Adorables - Ooh boy (Golden World)
Ø
> Mighty
Lovers - The Mighty Lover (Boo-ga-loo)
Ø
> Marvelettes
- Danger, heartbreak dead ahead (Tamla)
Ø
> Nolan
Chance - Just like the weather (Constellation)
Ø
> Jimmy
Fraser - Of hopes and dreams... (Epic)
Ø
>
Inspirations - Your wish is my command (Midas)
Ø
> Chuck
Jackson - I've got to be strong (Wand)
Ø
> The
Vel-vets - I got to find me somebody (20th Century)
The
rest of the night was spent buzzing between the two rooms (on two
floors) so I only caught bits of the other sets, but... Dave
Thorley included:
>
The Gambrells - Jive Talk
Ø
The Del-larks -
Job opening
Ø
> Ad-libs -
New York in the dark
Ø
> Dennis
Taylor – Smile
Ø
> Frankie
Knuckles - It's hard sometimes
Ø
> Jimmy Raye
- Philly dog around the world
Ø
Steve
Whittle included:
>
Willie Mitchell - That Drivin' beat
Ø
Lowell Fulsom -
Talking woman
Ø
> Patti and
the Emblems - I'm gonna love you a long, long time
Ø
> Detroit
Spinners - I'll be around
Ø
> Johnny
Caswell - You don't love me anymore
Ø
> Doni
Burdick - Bari Track
Ø
> Edward
Hamilton - Baby don't you weep
Ø
> Drizabone -
The pressure
Ø
plus Pete
and Neil backed up with solid sets, keeping the floor going well
till 2am.
In the bar upstairs, Al Davidson and Phil Taylor
included:
Ø
Constellations -
I didn't know how to
Ø
> Solomon
Burke - Cry to me
Ø
> Bobby
Womack - Home is where the heart is
Ø
> Bobby
Williams - I've only got myself to blame
Ø
> Maurice
Williams - Being without you
Ø
> Christine
Cooper - Heartaches away my boy
Ø
> Holland and
Dozier - Why can't we be lovers
Ø
Ø
and finally,
Paul O'Brien has taken his nose out of the Top 500 book for long
enough to list his set:
Ø
> Carol
Fran - You can't stop me
Ø
> Sonny Stitt
- Double O-soul
Ø
> Gino Parks
- Nerves of steel
Ø
> Derek
Martin- Sly Girl
Ø
> Four larks
- Groovin' at the go-go
Ø
> Duke Baxter
- I ain't no schoolboy (so cheap but so good!)
Ø
> Rozetta
Johnson - Chained and bound
Ø
> Len Jewell
- Bettin' on love
Ø
> Debbie Dean
- Why am I loving you
Ø
> Soul Gents
- Wonders of love
Ø
> Dee Edwards
- All the way home
Ø
> Carl
Douglas - Marble and iron
Ø
> Larry
Atkins - Ain't that love enough
Ø
> Corvairs -
Ain't no soul
Ø
> Leslie
Uggams - Don't you even care
Ø
> Kenny
Bernard - Pity my feet
Ø
> Jo Armstead
- I feel an urge coming on
Ø
> Sandy Wynns
- Love's like quicksand
Ø
> American
youth choir - Keep your fine self near me
Ø
> Joe Hicks -
Don't it make you feel funky
Ø
> Toni Lamarr
- Just in the nick of time
Ø
> Jackie
Verdell - Are you ready for this?
Ø
> Junior
Wells - Gonna cramp your style
Ø
> Bobby
Lester - Hang up your hang-ups
Ø
> Jeanette
Williams - Something good's got a hold on me
Ø
> The Halos -
Do I?
Ø
> Soul
brothers Six - Thank you baby for loving me.
Ø
So there you
go...something for everyone, I think. In fact, I was the only one
to play a 100% sixties set! I did try explaining to one girl why
I'd got the modern stuff at home but it wasn't what I played at
rare soul do's, and several girls came down expecting me to be
doing my urban/street soul set but ended up on the floor anyway,
but basically when I'm doing these I'm an unreconstructed stomper!
Ø
Looking
forward now to the Saracens in Cheltenham on Feb. 16th for more of
the same...
Hippo.
Soul Train
SOUL
TRAIN - McClusky's Bristol - 27 December 2000
At
last made it to one of the long running Soul Train series. Good
venue and I reckon there must have been 500 or so in there in the
end which apparently was a bit disappointing given that there were
over 700 at the last one.
Good
70's and 80's Soul and Funk 'anthems' all going down well with the
partying crowd so you can't knock it. Apparently it it's previous
form at a two roomed venue there was some scope to play something
a little bit more leftfield but here it was all tried and tested.
Good
venue, sound and very slick and professional and a fun night was
had by all.
Personally
I would have liked to have heard something a little bit more
progressive thrown in, either some current stuff or some Deep Funk
either of which would have mixed in. Regardless it was, and to be
fair it doesn't claim to be anything else, a celebration of 70's
and 80's Funk -- and why not.
Albrighton All-nighter
ALBRIGHTON
ALLNIGHTER 9 December 2000
100
Club - Soul Essence - Albrighton Allstars
Albrighton
probably cemented itself as the number one progressive allnighter.
Playing
to a full house in both the main hall and the modern room, the bar
and record dealers were also humming.
I
flitted from room to room and enjoyed most of what I saw in either
arena.
Arrived
just before 10 so missed most of Len Cook in the main room. Also
missed Ken Onions as I wanted to see Gary Holyman in the Modern
Room. As he played the Modulations I remarked that I wouldn't hear
a better record all night. I was possibly right but some top stuff
was played.
John
Weston seemed to go down well and I enjoyed what I'd heard having
felt that he was a bit esoteric the last time I heard him. On
reflection I think that was wrong, it was the fact that it was at
the Park Hall, and he was just a bit out of place in that arena.
Chris Anderson was playing some pretty current fare including the
Stevie Wonder remix, and Sounds Of Blackness. Bob Cosby started
with some excellent material but somehow the sound was very
distorted so moved on to the main hall.
Dave
Rimmer played Doc and the Interns - Baby I know- which I can't
recall hearing anywhere before and he seemed pretty pleased to
have it. I've had this for twenty odd years on Now N-1 (DJ copy)
and didn't have it down as being particularly collectable. Maybe
I'm wrong and the time is right for it. Hope so and that I can add
a couple of noughts to the value .
Next
was Butch who was kicking with his usual brand of rare and
interesting stuff. People do seem to want to hear what he plays
and he goes down well accordingly. Caught the end of Len Cook and
his usual mix was excellent. Then he killed it all with the
magical Sam Dees. Excellent! Although the dancers went!
Best
for me on the night was Gavin Page playing all the top modern gems
with verve and enthusiasm. All top stuff including Eric Benet and
a mix of Sly Family Affair. Missed Martin Bradbury. MickSmith, or
maybe it was Shifty, I can't remember!, played as set that I
thought included the most 'known' tunes, but he included two or
three excellent midtempos - which is the pace I like best!
Steve
Jefferies as usual was excellent and I wasn't particularly
surprised that he played Candi Staton - Young Hearts. Why not -
top quality soul. If we can play say Flowers - Emotions and Booker
Newbury- Love Town, why not.
Arthur
Fenn and Steve Plumb played good current soul.
Top
sound in the modern was probably R Kelly- played at least twice
and stormed.
Left
about 5.
All
in all an excellent night. I thought the main hall was as 'cutting
edge' as your likely to see in a main hall. On reflection I would
say that the Modern Room was fairly predictable. Now don't get me
wrong I thought it was really good top quality, in the main
current, soul and I enjoyed it a lot. I didn't however hear much
that I didn't expect to hear.
Life & Soul I
Life
and Soul - First event- Rozell Hotel - 3 November 2000- as posted
to Essential Modern Soul Website
I
think that the inaugural Life & Soul promoted soul night in
Weston Super Mare on Friday can be put down as a success. There
were one or two very positive plusses although it didn't go
exactly as planned.
1)
The venue was by general consensus superb, good dancefloor, good
lounge area.
2)
We had 75-80 through the door which was pretty good.
3)
I had billed the event as being predominantly Modern because I
thought that I would attract (and drag in!) some non soul people,
and that they would be more likely to dance to that than some
obscure northern stuff. However I attracted a larger northern
crowd than I had anticipated, and I had to change slightly to
cater for this. I had originally intended to blast the last hour
and a half with real good current stuff but unfortunately I wasn't
able to drop as much as I liked. I had to revert to the more
popular 'northern' modern which many of us regard as pretty old
hat these days. Also included some mid tempo items like say Deon
Jackson, Bobby Patterson, Artistics, rather than out and out
northern, although I confess to playing a few out and out popular
barnstorming stompers. Playlist below excluding the stompers. To
be fair to the northern crowd, it was they who responded to an
event with no name DJ's, and they who showed the enthusiasm to
listen across the board.
4)
Justin- Souljunkie.co.uk- helped DJ - he's a Caister devotee and
he mixed in a set of funkier jazzier grooves and some modern
things- not included on the list below- It's getting to the point
where this audience and ours has so much common ground now.
5)
Thanks to Dominique- co promoter- for her endeavor, enthusiasm,
and assistance, Dave for the kit and for filling in the gaps and
helping it to go so smoothly, Justin for the variation and his
help, and to all who came, especially those who traveled, on a
night where petrol was scarce and floods abundant, and also with a
lot of firework parties going on.
6)
Will we do it again? Probably yes in February or thereabouts. For
someone who has never put on an event before, let alone DJ'd it
went pretty well. There were a few comments floating around that
it would be a great place for a weekender! where maybe we could
coax a few more of you to come.
Playlist
in no particular order- Can't be bothered to list in full but
you'll all know the tracks I mean.
Arnold
Jarvis- Life goes on
Kenny
Bobien - U gave me love
Sonya
Latanya-
shady
Maxwell
- Ascension
Stevie
Wonder - All I do
Lenny
Williams- gotta lotta luv
Gerry
Devaux- front of the line
Elisha
Laverne- So very hot
Joi
Cardwell- let it go
Brother
to brother- Bottle
Sideshow-Lonely
Girl-
Bobby
Womack- Home is where the heart
Curtis
Mayfield- Move on up
Gloria
Scott- lovemaking
Carla
Thomas - Loving you
Mandrill
- too late
Jesse
Graham- when I think of my baby
Staples-Trippin
on your love
Woody
Cunningham- love has taken over
Jimmy
Bo Horne
Joey
Diggs
Bettye
Swann- Kiss love goodbye
Barbara
Lynn- love two
Corey
Glover
Corey
Blake
Sidney
Joe Qualls- don't do this
Innersection-
in debt
Mel
Williams
Lonnie
Liston Smith - Never too late
Not
sure if these count:-
Sisters
Sledge- love don't go
Ojays-
love music
Carstairs
Bill
Wither- Harlem
Jesse
Boone & AStros
And
probably a few more, plus Justin & Dave's
That Beating Rhythm
That
Beating Rhythm- Cheltenham Saracens Club - 13 October 2000
Once
again Pete French and Neil Self's Soul Night at the Saracens in
Cheltenham was a great success.
I
guess 200 or so people pack this night and a great time is had by
all. Policy is pretty much Northern fare throughout. Mostly pretty
well known material but some quite good rarities and the odd
northern modern sound thrown in.
Guest
was Hippo formerly Yate and very well known to the
Gloucester/Cheltenham contingent. I saw him at Crackers a bit back
and remember not being particularly impressed but here with this
crowd and atmosphere no problems at all, and he probably played
the same material! Just shows what atmosphere does. At the
previous do Steve Whittle was the guest and I thought - Oh no this
is going to be played out Wigan Oldies- but again I enjoyed him
very much.
Just
to show what effect the enthusiastic and 'up for it' crowd has -
At the end there were still quite a few people left, the lights
were up and the staff wanted to leave. Everybody got onto the
dancefloor and performed a rendition of 'Long after tonite is all
over'. It probably sounds naff but it was actually quite moving
and shows what the crowd thought of the night.
I
think if you accept this as what it is - a great night- well
attended- dancing- to pretty standard northern fare you can't go
far wrong. I confess to leaning towards and listening to much more
modern/current stuff than oldies, but a few times a year this is
great fun.
Neil,
Pete and crew do a grand job.
Pete-
send me a playlist or pick some top tunes and I'll post them
Fleece
Northern
Soul Night -Fleece- Westgate Street Gloucester - 1 December
2000
Music Policy - seems to be basically 60's &
Northern.
I
came across this purely by chance when surfing through some local
sights and ended up at the Gloucester Gladiators Scooter Club ,
and this was listed. Not doing anything that night we went along
and enjoyed a good night.
Don't
know too much about the organisers or the DJ's (except Des). I had
a word with Bob ( the organiser) and I understand that he intends
to do this once a month and that he has access to local DJ's with
excellent record
collections.
This proved to be right as on the night, the one I do know, Des
Parker (Albrighton) was in attendance.
I
must say that I enjoyed Des's set very much. Those who know Des
will know that he plays some pretty rare and esoteric stuff,
virtually all 60's and perhaps a leaning towards R'n'B. I don't
know whether it was the venue but I felt I was able to get to
'know' the sounds better in a smaller auditorium, and that at
Albrighton for example- not that that's
particularly big- some
of this goes over my head. There were some first plays for some
material that doubtless will go 'big' when they are 'introduced'
at the new 60's venue The Black Horse, Wolverhampton on 15
December. See also Des's list in the December Echoes.
After
Des it was more usual Northern Fare which enthused the crowd of, I
don't know about 50. Sorry I don't know the DJ's so I can't really
say more.
All
in all an enjoyable night.
Bob
- keep me posted about events and your website when it's up
and
running.
Togetherness
Togetherness
- Kings Hall Stoke - 11November 2000 (Briefly
The
biggest allnighter in the country and most everybody knows it and
what it's all about. The Downstairs music policy is all popular,
tried and tested, no surprises stuff so why does anyone go!
Is
it because the room is a throwback to the Casino, is it because
there are 1000 people there creating a good atmosphere- I don't
know but it is one not to be missed.
Lots of record dealers
in attendance and it is possible to pick up a few bargains- and
the reverse is also possible!
Great
Modern Room - the room is small by comparison to downstairs but it
is actually quite big! Once it gets going it does so with a
vengeance and I love it but with some exceptions I did feel this
time that it lost a bit of it's 'cutting edge' that I thought was
there before, and that it had become a bit predictable - like
everytime I re-entered the room Joi Cardwell
seemed to be on!
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