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Smudge
Unfortunately I was unable to attend any of the
rehearsals prior to the Roadhouse but I have it on good
authority that they got better the more they rehearsed.
So it was with a great deal of excitement that I rose on
Sunday morning. I’ve never been to the Roadhouse so it
was all a bit new. I had been told that the load in and
out were going to be horrendous because the venue is in
the basement which means stairs.
Arrival at the venue with people coming from all over
the UK and then experiencing the courteous and polite
parking wardens of Westminster council. We were a bit
early and had to hang around Covent Garden for about an
hour. I was stuck in between a busker playing really
bad versions of James Taylor / Fleetwood Mac and an
opera singer.
Venue opens and bloody hell the stairs. Still no
matter, load in and we meet the staff as they gradually
arrived. I soon got the impression that this was going
to be good as the staff were without doubt the most
accommodating and friendly I have met. Nothing was a
problem and if a problem did arise they made sure that a
solution was agreed unlike some places I’ve worked where
all you hear is NO!
Gear all set up and I was told that Steve CHURCH would
be responsible for activating the pyro!! Where’s me
asbestos suit and fire extinguisher!!! Steve has got
previous for torching a couple of venues when he worked
with Tobruk. A bit too heavy with the powder was
Steve. It was soon decided that one of the Roadhouse
crew would take that responsibility. Phew disaster
averted.
Soundcheck. A couple of
issues with the PA sorted and we were off. It was
picture time and set up the merchandise stand (again
done wonderfully by Dave and Tiff). Dave also did a
sterling job on the meet n greet AGAIN.
Doors open and off I go to the merch stand to help Tiff
with the new album orders.
I know the gig was billed as the album launch and I also
know the guys in the band were worried about the album
not being available. We did our best with the ideas and
I have to say that I only had one person who was not
happy. It was explained that he would be getting the
album at least a week before anybody else. As for
everyone else thanks for making my job easy………. |
Gig time and I’m off backstage. Blimey did it go
quick?? The new songs were blinding and then Mr Mick
RALPHS jumps up. Churchy was in proper fan mode getting
pix with the man. No issues with the gear and the whole
show was as smooth as silk. Raffle time and I have to
say Steve, Warren and I had the best view in the house.
(You know what I mean!!)
Load out. Bear in mind that we’ve been there all day and
have the hard work of lumping the gear upstairs. All is
safely gathered in when I take back Jim K’s van keys.
“Smoodge I’ve ‘ad 8 bottle of beers on stage. I’m
shagged, can’t drive!!” Off I go and find a parking
space for his van. Locate one opposite the Houses of
Parliament. Get back and try to explain to a drunk
bloke about parking charges and the congestion charge.
And we’re off………
Major thanks to Merv, Jem, Steve, Pete n Jim for
trusting a waster like me with their stuff. Over the
past 3 years I have achieved some of my ambitions and
that’s because of you guys.
Warren you’re a top bloke! Dave and Tiff it is always a
pleasure……… Jo Mitchell you were sent from heaven that
day and worked like a Trojan at short notice. Top
bird!!!
Last but not least my brother from another mother.
Churchy we’ve laughed together, cried together and
fought literally back to back. You are the best mate
any man could have. Thanks for your patience. We do
make a great team……….
As for you dear reader we will see you again in 2010.
Don’t be a stranger, introduce yourselves and respect
the techs………
Love,
Smudge
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