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  • The Wooden Bridge, Guildford

    The Wooden Bridge, Guildford

    The Wooden Bridge, Guildford is still there and operating as a pub, unlike many of the old venues. It hosted The Rolling Stones, Ten Years After, Camel, John Mayall (August ’63), The Who, The Vapors and Eric Clapton’s first band, The Roosters, and many more well known bands in it’s day.

    The Wooden Bridge, Guildford

    Starting in the late 50’s with nights dedicated to Trad Jazz, Modern Jazz, and Rock; The Wooden Bridge put itself firmly on the map as a local venue. In March ’63 The Rolling Stones’, then a club band, made their first appearance in Guildford at the pub, playing the venue a couple of times a month during that summer. This was all thanks to the Ricky Tick Club which took up residence booking The Stones, Alexis Korner, Cyril Davis, John Mayall and others. At the same time The Roosters, Eric Clapton’s first band, rehearsed at The Wooden Bridge, and got paid £5 between them when they played there. Reportedly, Clapton would show up for the Boxing Day sessions occasionally.

    Hand bills for July / August 1963 featuring the Cyril Davies All Stars, The Rolling Stones, and John Mayalls Blues Breakers. The Stones gig on August 23rd was cancelled.

    A typical rhythm’n blues’ schedule at the venue saw Georgie Fame & The Blue Flames appear on 23 April ’63; the following week it was the Cyril Davies Allstars with Long John Baldry; Manne/Hugg Blues Brothers – who, when signing a contract with EMI later that year were renamed Manfred Mann – featuring Stella Thomas; with the Rolling Stones on 17 May. The Cyril Davies Allstars with Long John Baldry were back on 5 July, followed by the Graham Bond Quartet on 12 July and The Rolling Stones for their monthly visit on 19 July. The next month The Stones gig on 23 August ’63 was cancelled, having performed their single on Ready, Steady, Go! earlier; their second ever UK television appearance. As the ‘rock’ moved in the jazz was holding on. On 15 August ’63 the Mike Cotton Jazzmen held the stage and two weeks later, on 29 August, jazz journeymen, The Alan Elsdon Jazz Band with Mick Emery were at the venue thanks to Jack Fallen of the Cana Variety Agency. Keith Smith appeared at The Woodenbridge, Guildford on 4 January ’68 thanks to the Jazz Club.

    The Ricky Tick became so successful that the crowds were too much for the pub & staff to handle and it moved to a bigger Guildford location. Graham Andrews recalls putting on the Alex Harvey Soul Band and The Clayton Squares at the Wooden Bridge in the mid 1960s. Also in the mid-’60s R&B focused “The Hive” club operated out of The Wooden Bridge on Sunday evenings with the likes of John Mayall, Jeff Beck, and The Herd performing and accessible for a five shilling ticket. At some point in ’67, Peter Green’s Fleetwood Mac performed at the The Hive, supported by local group The Whiskey Ring. Dave Reading, a journalist at the time, recalls the evening and having a brief exchange with Green. He talked about the importance of playing sparsely, praising The Whiskey Ring’s guitarist Nigel Enever; commenting on Enever’s guitar solo Green said: “I thought at one point you were going to over-play it [Jimmy Witherspoon “Evening”], but you judged it just right. It was perfect.”

    The Hive could get raucous; one incident involved tear gas being let off in the bar. Still, Ten Years After appeared twice in the late ’60s, the first on 10 December ’67 for 45 quid, the second on 10 March ’68 for 60 quid or 50% of the gate – they also appeared on 26 May ’68. Jethro Tull are also rumored to have graced the venue too. Local groups, like The Primevals and The Phantom Four, would be booked to support. There was also still a smattering of traditional / dixieland jazz on Thursday nights thank to The Wooden Bridge Jazz Club who booked Max Collie’s Rhythm Aces and Keith Smith at the venue on 4 January ’68, Brian Rutland on 15 February ’68, and New Era Jazzband on 22 August ’68 amongst others.

    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes

    In the 70’s it was The Vapors, Duffy, The Volunteers, and UBz who took to the low ‘stage’ and the likes of House had a Saturday lunchtime gig at The Wooden Bridge, as they did on 24 February ’79 just before supporting Rainbow at the The Rainbow Theatre, London. The Crossroads Club, dedicated to folk, ran out of the venue in the early 70’s with The Berkshire Tragedy appearing on 15 November ’70 and notable folk-singer Taffy Thomas, who became the UK’s first Laureate for Storytelling in 2010, appearing on 16 March ’75. On 4 March ’79, Mark Andrews and the Gents were at the Wooden Bridge. Supported by Brandenburg, the local Jasmine Pie performed on 14 April ’78.

    27 September 1978: Cardiac Arrest played the Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Source: Suey Sue via Cardiacs

    The Cardiacs, under their original Cardiac Arrest monica played the Bridge on 27 September ’78. In the late 70’s Ian J Davies helped with The Rock Club, organized by John and Robert Russell, who’d pull bands down from London to play and supported Guildford bands like the 6-piece Bloodhound who appeared on 27 May ’79 and The Vapors – who performed on 3 June ’79 – UBz, The Absolute; and the Jackie Lynton Band were club regulars. The Fix supported the original line-up of Squire, including Steve Baker, at the Wooden Bridge, Guildford sometime in ’79. Late that year, on 18 December, Noit Otni & the Pits appeared and under the slogan ‘Rock Against Rock’ they herld a launch party for the “A Heart Can Only Be Broken Once” double A-side single on Automotive Records (AERS 107) with “Moving Target” on the “B-side”.

    Nov 81: Just So Stories at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Kaz Jones

    Early 80’s saw Rubber Flower and Just So Stories among many others. UBz were at The Wooden Bridge on 9 February ’80 for a Barbed Wire benefit that saw Noit Otni & the Pits and UBz support The Vapors, who were too famous by the second run of posters to put on the bill so were listed as The Japanese Prisoners. On 20 March 1980 The Vapors were back, at the peak of their career, packing out The Wooden Bridge. Six days later, on 26 March 1980, Chicken Shack, featuring ex-Ten Years After drummer Ric Lee and original Chicken Shack guitarist Stan Webb, appeared. Two days after that UBz put on an energetic performance with Alan Neve on cardboard/air guitar and observed by Vapor bassist Ed Bazalgette.

    16 April 1980: Ex-Sex Pistol Glen Matlock with The Spectres at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes

    The 16 April ’80 reportedly saw Billy Idol grabbing a pint at the pub and catching The Spectres performance when they were joined by ex-Sex Pistol Glen Matlock and supported by Blue Unction. He didn’t return on the 23 April for Dana Gillespie’s gig. The 21 July ’80 saw Disruptive Patterns supported by Consenting Adults. On the 6 August ’80, M.I.5. were at the venue, likely accompanied by the Junction 13 Scooter Club. UBz, supported by The Grenades, were at The Wooden Bridge again on the 4 Oct ’80 and within the week Controls were among the local bands to headline appearing on 8 October ’80. White Colours, who’s debuted at The Wooden Bridge in late ’80 were back on 27 January ’81 for a set with Tel Aviv Quartet. On 7 March ’81, Approved Men were rocking against cruise missiles, along with their support band.

    7 March 1981: Approved Men played the Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Chris Try

    Grimstone put Dolly Mixture and The Rapiers on at The Wooden Bridge on 25 June ’81. That same year, on 12 September, Blank Expression were at the Bridge. The following month, on 3 October, Human Beings included an outing to the venue on their local ‘tour’; and the month after that, on 7 November, Drowning Craze headlined a CND benefit gig with The Frotteurs and Ferrari Red (which was incorrectly listed as Friary Red on the flyer) in support.

    7 November 1981: Drowning Craze headlined this CND benefit gig, supported by The Frotteurs and Ferrari Red at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of James Perrett

    Blank Expression were a regular booking for The Wooden Bridge and the band were back on 1 December ’81. The Frotteurs, with an augmented lineup featuring Dylan Cole (guitar), Graham Melrose (sax) and Gus Garside (trombone), also returned in December, supporting at the Human Beings Christmas Party on the 23rd. On 11 May ’82 Beating Hearts headlined and towards the end on the month, on 29 May, Blank Expression returned again to the Wooden Bridge, but live music at the venue was petering out and the disc-jockeys were taking over; as was the case in many live music venues…

    29 May 1982: Blank Expression were at the Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Chris Try
    1 December 1981: Blank Expression, with support, played The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Chris Try

    But, the Rock Club kept on filling Thursday nights at The Wooden Bridge. In late ’82, Terraplane headlined with Actors One in support on 2 December, Soldier on 9 December, Low Profile supported Reaper the following week, Santa & The Reindeers and Sacrilrege played on 23 December, and Backstage Pass wrapped up the month on 30 December.

    The Wooden Bridge Rock Club welcomed Dumpy’s Rusty Nuts with Cruella De Ville on 7 April ’83 and Stray supported by the local City the next week, 14 April. Three days later B.S.P and Salt Solution rolled into the venue on 17 April ’83. Tony McPhee, the founder of the British blues and rock band the Groundhogs, accepted the Rock Clubs invitation, and payment, appearing on 21 April ’83 with Stillbrook warming up the crowd. Greg and Phil Boynton’s Dagaband, supported by Capricorn, appeared on 28 April ’83 and a week later Derbyshire hard rock band Saracen headlined the Rock Club on 5 May ’83, with The Skip Landon Band in support. Normally held every Thursday, the Rock Club broke with protocol for The Click, booking them for Saturday 7 May ’83. The next Thursday local rockers The Larry Miller Band were supported by Genghis Khan, followed a week later by Vin Ordinaire supporting headliners Fugitive, who were out of Retford by all accounts. Norwich based progressive rock band Airbridge wrapped up the Rock Club’s May in ’83 supported by Reigate’s No Angry Men; of whom the front man’s two sons formed electronic duo Disclosure. Howard Jones also appeared The Wooden Bridge in ’83, a month or two before “New Song” hit the top portion of the charts

    Of the last gigs in the early ’80s there was, on the 3 August ’84, Fra Angelico; and we know that The Innocence supported The Plague that year too. Other acts recalled by the punters were: Acker Bilk, Crisis, Nashville Teens, Georgie Fame, The Yardbirds, The Animals, The Alan Bown Set, St Valentines Day Massacre, Champion Jack Dupree, Family, Stormsville Shakers, Geno Washington, Lucas and Band, Keith Hartley Band, Duster Bennett, Steamhammer, Barron Knights, Station 360 and Terry Lightfoot. Our final live music connection for The Wooden Bridge sees The Bunkers taking photographs in the pub’s car park, from the elevated patio, for the cover of their ’86 release Best of The Bunkers Volume Three cassette LP.

    1986’s “Best of the Bunkers Volume Three” cassette sleeve. The picture was taken outside The Wooden Bridge. Picture courtesy of Ben Darnton

    As we noted The Wooden Bridge is still a functioning pub and in recent years has started to host the occasional live band.

    Gallery:

    29 August 1963: Advert from Melody Maker 3 August 1963 puts the Alan Elsdon Jazz Band with Mick Emery at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford.
    The Wooden Bridge, Guildford c’76 photographed by Tony Martin. Source: Barbara Martin via Guildford Town Past & Present…
    Rob Jacob of The Volunteers at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, late in 1978. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Rob Jacob of The Volunteers at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, late in 1978. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Rob Jacob with Pat Martin to his right of The Volunteers at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, late in 1978. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Rob Jacob with Pat Martin of The Volunteers at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, late in 1978. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Rob Jacob of The Volunteers, with Justin Hildreth on drums (moonlighting from Roogalator) at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, late in 1978. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Rob Jacob of The Volunteers at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, late in 1978. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Rob Jacob of The Volunteers, with Justin Hildreth on drums (moonlighting from Roogalator) at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, late in 1978. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Rob Jacob with Pat Martin of The Volunteers at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, late in 1978. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Rob Jacob of The Volunteers at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, late in 1978. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    The Volunteers at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, late in 1978. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    The Volunteers at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, late in 1978. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    The Volunteers at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, late in 1978. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    The Volunteers’ Rob Jacobs, with Justyn Hilldreth behind, at The Woodenbridge, Guildford late ’78. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    The Volunteers at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, late in 1978. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    The Volunteers at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, late in 1978. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    The Volunteers at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, late in 1978. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    14 April 1978: Jasmine Pie, supported by Brandenburg, were at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Gerald Eyton-Jones
    26 March 1980: The Wooden Bridge hosted Chicken Shack.
    7 March 1981: Approved Men were rocking against cruise missiles, along with the support band, at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Source: Ross Brown via Guildford Town Past & Present…
    3 October 1981: The Human Beings gig list covering August through October 1981, includes an outings to The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Steve Everett.
    December 1982: Rock Club claimed Thursday nights at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Martin Rochefort via Guildford Town Past and Present
    Advert for The Wooden Bridge Rock Club from Sounds 9 April ’83 issue. Image courtesy of Pete Cole
    May 1983: The Rock Club on Thursdays at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Martin Rochefort via Guildford Town Past and Present
    Advert for The Wooden Bridge from Sounds 14 May 1983 edition. Image courtesy of Pete Cole
    18 December 1979: Noit Otni and The Pits appeared at The Wooden Bridge. Guildford. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    8 October 1980: Controls gig poster for The Wooden Bridge, Guildford; sign-written by guitarist Mick Pendleton’s dad. Picture courtesy of Tim Naylor
    23 December 1981: The Frotteurs at the Human Beings Christmas Party. Picture courtesy of James Perrett
    23 December 1981: The Frotteurs at the Human Beings Christmas Party. Picture courtesy of James Perrett
    23 December 1981: The Frotteurs at the Human Beings Christmas Party. Picture courtesy of James Perrett
    Human Beings at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of James Perrett
    Human Beings at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of James Perrett
    Human Beings at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of James Perrett
    Human Beings at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of James Perrett
    12 September 1981: Blank Expression were at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Chris Try
    1 December 1981: Blank Expression, with support, played The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Chris Try
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    20 March 1980: The Vapors at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    24 February 1979: House at Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture credit and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    24 February 1979: House at The Wooden Bridge. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    24 February 1979: House at Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture credit and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    24 February 1979: House at The Wooden Bridge. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    24 February 1979: House at The Wooden Bridge. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    24 February 1979: House at The Wooden Bridge. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    24 February 1979: House at The Wooden Bridge. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    24 February 1979: House at The Wooden Bridge. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    24 February 1979: House at The Wooden Bridge. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    24 February 1979: House at The Wooden Bridge. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    24 February 1979: Tony Backhurst and Dick Middleton of House play the Wooden Bridge. Picture by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    16 March 1975: Taffy Thomas played The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records
    4 Oct 1980: UBz, supported by The Grenades, were at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Source: Mark Charles
    Disruptive Patterns c’80 at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Disruptive Patterns c’80 at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Disruptive Patterns c’80 at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Disruptive Patterns c’80 at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Disruptive Patterns c’80 at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Disruptive Patterns c’80 at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    The Vapors played The Wooden Bridge on June 3rd ’79.
    Bo & the Generals (c’81) at The Woodenbridge. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Bo & the Generals (c’81) at The Woodenbridge. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Bo & the Generals (c’81) at The Woodenbridge. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Bo & the Generals (c’81) at The Woodenbridge. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Bo & the Generals (c’81) at The Woodenbridge. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    An early Ricky Tick Club flyer when it was at the Woodenbridge featuring Hogsnort Rupert supporting the Blues Syndicate, from the collection of Peter Philips. Picture courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records
    Hand bill for April / May 1963 gigs at The Wooden Bridge. Picture courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records
    M.I.5. at The Woodenbridge, May 1980
    The Woodenbridge in 1980, taken by Eduard Eady. Picture courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records
    Hand bill for May / June 1963 gigs at The Wooden Bridge and Aluxis Corner, The Rolling Stones and the Cyril Davies All Stars are on the bill.
    Ten Years After were booked to play The Woodenbridge on 10th December 1967 for 45 quid.
    Ten Years After are booked to play The Woodenbridge by Lionel Webb on 10th March 1968 for 60 quid or 50% of the gate.
    25th June 1981: Grimstone put Dolly Mixture and The Rapiers on at The Woodenbridge
    Mark Andrews and the Gents at the Wooden Bridge, Guildford, 4 March 1979. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, c’80. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford, c’80. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    A4 Poster for Woodenbridge, Guildford gig on 8th Oct 1980
    11 May 1982
    Max Collie’s Rhythm Aces advertise their UK tour that includes The Woodenbrigde, Guildford on 4 January ’68 in Melody Maker (w/e 6 January ’68)
    The Woodenbridge Jazz Club bought the New Era Jazzband to Guildford on 22 August ’68 (from Melody Maker w/e 24 August 1968)
    The Woodenbridge Jazz Club bought Brian Rutland to Guildford on 15 February ’68 (Melody Maker w/e 17 February ’68)
    Keith Smith appeared at The Woodenbridge, Guildford on 4 January ’68 thanks to the Jazz Club (Melody Maker w/e 6 January ’68)
    The Primevals at the Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photo by Geoff Burch and here courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records
    Primevals’ Geoffrey Andrews at the Wooden Bridge, Guildford (date unknown). Photo by Geoff Burch and here courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records
    The Primevals at the Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photo by Geoff Burch and here courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records
    Page 14 from Orbit (possibly November issue) 1970. Source: Paul Pickett via Guildford Town Past & Present
    Imperfect Hold at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Imperfect Hold at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Imperfect Hold at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Imperfect Hold at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    July 1963 and Ricky Tick booked Cyril Davies, Graham Bond and the Rolling Stones to play The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records
    Displayed’s Gavin Dunt at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Gavin Dunt
    Displayed’s Ian Johnston at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Gavin Dunt
    Displayed at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Picture courtesy of Gavin Dunt
    M.I.5. with the Junction 13 Scooter Club, outside The Woodenbridge, Guildford c’80. Source: Stephen Shilcock via Guildford Town Past & Present
    16 April 1980: Ex-Sex Pistol Glen Matlock with The Spectres at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    16 April 1980: Glen Matlock (Ex-Sex Pistols bassist) and Danny Kustow of The Spectres at the Wooden Bridge, Guildford, Spring 1980. Picture courtesy of Fred Pipes
    16 April 1980: Glen Matlock (Ex-Sex Pistols bassist) and Danny Kustow of The Spectres at the Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    16 April 1980: Ex-Sex Pistol Glen Matlock with The Spectres at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    16 April 1980: Ex-Sex Pistol Glen Matlock with The Spectres at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    In the late 70s early 80s The Wooden Bridge, Guildford held Northern Soul Nights. Source: Rambling Ron Halls via Guildford Town Past & Present
    28 March 1980: The Vapors Ed Bazalgette watching UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: The Vapors Ed Bazalgette watching UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford; with Alan Neve on cardboard/air guitar. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford; with Alan Neve on cardboard/air guitar. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford; with Alan Neve on cardboard/air guitar. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford; with Alan Neve on cardboard/air guitar. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford; with Alan Neve on cardboard/air guitar. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford; with Alan Neve on cardboard/air guitar. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    28 March 1980: UBz at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Photograph by and courtesy of Fred Pipes
    Did you get funked at the Wooden Bridge, Guildford? Source: David Else via Guildford Town Past & Present
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  • Magic Moments At Twilight Time

    Magic Moments At Twilight Time

    (c’86-’91) Mick “Magic” Lancaster (guitar / keyboards); Shona “Moments” Atkinson (vocals / spoken word); and Nik Morgan (guitar)

    Lancaster started Magic Moments At Twilight Time (MMATT), which could be describe as more of a project than a band, in late ’86 early ’87; forming the name by combining the US and UK No.1’s on his birthday: The Platters’ “Twilight Time” and Perry Como’s “Magic Moments”. The “State of The Art” demo introduced us to the acts ‘psychotronic’ rock and was ready in March ’87 and available from The Rock Box, Camberley; which supported, cut free, many a local band this way.

    Poster promoting MMATT “State of the Art” cassette. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic

    On 21 March ’87, Chris Carter played it over the PA before The Charles came on at Frimley Community Centre. It was the first time any MMATT music had ever been played in public. Shortly after MMATT secured a support slot with The Charles, on the basis of “State of The Art” opening track “Story X”, on 8 May – this gig didn’t happen however as The Charles’ manager John Pryor had not booked the venue. At the time MMATT were pretty much just husband and wife duo Lancaster and Atkinson, who did some spoken word. They roped in Nik Morgan (guitar) who was renting a room from them and found Anna Haigh (vocals), who left almost immediately to be replaced by Atkinson. Before the scheduled gig MMATT and The Charles’ vocalist Chris Carter collaborated on a 23 minute track that filled the A-side of “Mick & Chris on Acid” released in May ’87; the B’side carrying two MMATT tracks and three from The Charles. The Charles and MMATT collaboration would become known as The Grain, which was also the name of the fanzine they produced. By mid-May MMATT were a 4 piece: Magic, Moments, Jay “Time” Symons (bass) and Kate “Twilight” London (synth).

    27 June ’87 gig poster. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic

    On 27 June ’87 MMATT eventually gigged with The Charles at Frimley Community Centre; a video of which may exist. In July, MMATT entered the studio for Earworm Records for a session, engineered and mixed by Fergus Anderson, that laid down “State of The Art” and “Zen Sequent”, to be published on a sampler cassette – which ultimately didn’t amount to much. On 26 July ’87 the band appeared at The White Hart, Frimley.

    On 20 September ’87, the collaborative with the addition of Slack Bladder, Momento Mori, The Visionairies, Greed and Magic Moments, having divested ‘At Twilight Time’ to focus on experimental sound, put on the free The Grain Festival at Highland Farm, Frimley Green. Next was an Xmas Bash with Slack Bladder at Frimley Community Centre on 12 December before a trip to The Crypt, Deptford on 18 March ’88, were the band were supposed to support The Charles, but after that bands demise were on before The Pink Fairies.

    In between the Frimley and Crypt gigs MMATT released “The Time Machine” in February ’88. By April ’88, Symons had quit the band, Lancaster and Atkinson’s marriage was falling apart and London decided to call it a day too. Lancaster, under the new Mick Tron monica, then established the Music & Elsewhere label, releasing the 90-minute Grain Aid cassette [MMATT 19] on 2 July. On 2 December ’88, Magic Moments, again dropping Twilight Time were at The Crypt supporting Here & Now. Somewhere in ’88, amongst all this, the group appeared at the Technical College, Farnborough.

    Issue No1 of The MMATTrix, the Magic Moments at Twilight Time newsletter, from the Summer of ’91. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic

    Issue No1 of The MMATTrix, the Magic Moments at Twilight Time newsletter, was published in the Summer of ’91. Also released in ’91 was the live recording of the band’s 5th birthday gig, as broadcast on pirate radio station Overflow Radio, hosted by Garry Lee, as MMATT’s ‘White Hawk Atomic, Recorded Live on Alpha Nebuli IV’ CD. The MMATT for this show were; Lancaster (guitar, vocals, programming), Pete Program (synth FX) and Lulu (lead vocals).

    MMaTT’s ‘White Hawk Atomic ,Recorded Live on Alpha Nebuli IV’ CD. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic

    Three tracks from February ’88’s “The Time Machine”, namely: “Womble Pudding”, “Marriage Of The Potato Masher” and “Teamushysomepour” were included on Stan Batcow’s Pumf Records “Designer Brain Damage” MMATT compilation in ’92. The band’s track “Spirit” was then included on Son of Farnborough Groove Vol.2 that same year, and the following year “Blitzkrieg!” appeared on Return of Farnborough Groove Vol.3.

    London sadly lost her life in a Sunningdale road accident on 23 September ’99. In April 2020 the 14 minute 29 second long “Magic Moments At Twilight Time (2020 Remix)” was released.

    Tracks:

    Gallery:

    Unused Magic Moments at Twilight Time band promo picture from early ’87. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    Album cover for 1998’s “CREVOLUTION”
    MMATT at The Crypt supporting Pink Fairies, March 18 1988. Source: Magic Moments At Twilight Time
    London fronting MMATT at The Crypt on 18th March 1988. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    This demo, released on 6 May ’87, carried the track “Mick & Chris On Acid” – The first collaboration MMATT did with The Charles.
    2 December 1988: Ad for The Crypt listing MMATT supporting Here & Now on 2 December 1988, from 3 Dec ’88 Sounds. Source: transpont.blogspot.com
    18 March 1988: Sounds Ad for The Crypt featuring the MMATT gig supporting The Pink Fairies. Source: transpont.blogspot.com
    Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    MMATT’s Ford Escortron. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    Band promo picture from early ’87. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    Cover of MMATT’s Psychotron 0 from 1988. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    Cover of MMATT’s Psychotron 0 from 1988. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    MMATT June ’87 gig in Frimley. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    MMATT June ’87 gig in Frimley. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    MMATT June ’87 gig in Frimley. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    MMATT June ’87 gig in Frimley. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    Symons of MMATT at The White Hart, Frimley 26 July 1987. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    Lancaster of MMATT at The White Hart, Frimley 26 July 1987. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    Cover of issue 5 of The Grain fanzine. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    MMATT write up in The Hearld from 11 Sept ’87. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    MMATT write up by Adrian Creek in The News from 11 September ’87. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    Poster for 12 Dec ’87 Xmas Bash with Slack Bladder. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    Flyer for 12 Dec ’87 Xmas based with Slack Bladder. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    12 December 1987: MMATT play The Grain’s Xmash Bash at Frimley Community Centre. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    18 March 1988: The Crypt’s flyer featuring MMATT supporting The Charles. The Charles were replaced by The Pink Fairies. Picture courtesy of Mick Magic
    Local gig listing for Saturday 9 May 1987 from that weeks The News. The Charles / MMATT gig ran into some trouble…
    Clipping from The News of 27 May 1987 on The Charles / MMATT gig trouble…
    22 August 1987: The Charles and Magic Moment at Twilight Time were at Heaterside Community Centre. Picture courtesy of The Grain
    The band’s track “Blitzkrieg!” was included on Return of Farnborough Groove Vol.3 in 1993. Picture courtesy of Pete Cole
    The band’s track “Spirit” was included on Son of Farnborough Groove Vol.2 in 1992. Picture courtesy of Pete Cole
    MMATT at Farnborough Tech, 1988. Source: Steve McKeown via Farnborough (Hants) Nostalgia
    MMATT at Farnborough Tech, 1988. Source: Steve McKeown via Farnborough (Hants) Nostalgia
    MMATT at Farnborough Tech, 1988. Source: Steve McKeown via Farnborough (Hants) Nostalgia
    MMATT at Farnborough Tech, 1988. Source: Steve McKeown via Farnborough (Hants) Nostalgia
    The Gossville Arsonist fanzine’s one-line review of MMATT track from The Son of Farnborough Groove Vol.2
    Magic Moments at Twilight Time

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  • Life Under One Sun

    Life Under One Sun

    (c.’83) – Julian Jehu (vocals), Chris Potter (bass), Russ Good / Wilson (drums) and John “Hairdo” Atterbury (guitar)

    Short lived Life Under One Sun split after a debut gig at The Royal, Guildford in April ’83. Atterbury received the “Hairdo” moniker after winning a Soundscene award for ‘most hairdos in a year’.

    Good was in Planetarium and then 32:20, in which Atterbury was handling vocals, prior to Life Under One Sun, he’d go on to appear in Shooting at Strangers. Jehu, who’d previously been in White Colours, went on to join Polite Young Men before departing for America about ’84/85.

    Gallery:

    Soundscene piece from 26th April 1984, about Polite Young Men, mentions Life Under One Sun.
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  • Centre Halls, Woking

    Centre Halls, Woking

    Construction started on Centre Halls, Woking in 1973, opening in the mid ’75. It was demolished in the late 80’s, along with Centre Pool and Woking Library, to make room for The Peacocks shopping centre. The Centre Halls included the Rhoda McGrew Theatre, library and swimming pool along with the “Concert” Hall.

    Centre Halls, Woking. Source: Richard Knotek via Woking When We were Young

    By late ’77, early ’78, the Centre Hall was becoming a bit of a regular venue, thanks in part to Joy ? who booked ‘not so mainstream’ bands for the Centre Halls. Those bands included the likes of: The Stranglers (9 Feb ’77), and The Crabs (24 Sept ’77 & 20 May ’78). Wilko Johnson made Woking’s Centre Halls a late addition to his tour, appearing at the venue on 29 November ’77. Sham 69 opened ’78 with a gig at the venue on 5 January; a gig that ran so late the last train to Guildford was missed by several gig-goers who walked home with snow on the ground.

    Jimmy Pursey pictured at Woking Centre Halls.

    Two weeks later, with tickets retailing for a quid, Sham 69 were back; with Master Switch, Menace and local band Crisis – who replaced Speedometers in support on 19 Jan ’78. Crisis’ vocalist Frazer Towman came on and rushed about the stage wearing a mask. And of course not forgetting Tubeway Army’s appearance in May that same year. The Stranglers and Sham 69 gigs both featured a bit of argy-bargy, in fact a front door was ripped off before the 19 January Sham 69 gig even started.

    Flashback performing at Woking Centre Halls. Source: Geoff Langrish

    Woking’s Music Festival was held at the Centre Halls in November ’80, and Panther were the solitary rock band at the festival on 29 November. Other local bands that also took to the stage were Ribs, who were supported by The Outpatients, on 1 December ’77; FFile, The Early Years, and Flashback. Centre Halls, Woking also held a popular disco night with many a teen holding a Top Twenty Club Membership card in the late 70’s /, early 80’s.

    Ob Jay Da (roughly centre) next to David Jason. Picture courtesy of Allan Broad

    In ’87, Ob-Jay-Da won a talent competition, judged by David Jason and others, with their performance of “Amoureuse”, that was held at the Halls. The 4 September ’88 pretty much saw the last live band event at Centre Halls. ABC Music’s Showcase ’88 featured 8 bands, including 5 local groups: The Button Factory, Napalm Groove Squad, The 68 Floods, Van Gogh and the Earlobes, and Steel Bill and the Buffalos – who headlined and won the showcase; as well as the non-locals City Limits, Colour Noise, and Havana Affair. It was rumored that Sammy Rats Big Big Blues Band would be on the bill for Showcase ’88; but it wasn’t to be. Van Gogh and the Earlobes, supported by Napalm Grove Squad, also played at the venue for a Brooklands College party in ’87/’88.

    Van Gogh and the Earlobes playing at Centre Halls, Woking for Brooklands College party. Picture courtesy of Daniel Hiscocks

    In late 1988 the Centre Halls were demolished. Joy has regrettably left us.

    Gallery:

    Centre Halls, Woking. Source: Adam Charlesworth via Woking When We were Young
    Foyer, Centre Halls, Woking. Source: Nigel Turner via Woking When We were Young
    The main hall at Centre Halls, Woking. Source: Richard Knotek via WOKING when we were young
    Plan view of Centre Halls…
    Wilko Johnson’s tour added Woking Centre Halls on 29 November. Clipping from Record Mirror 26 November 1977.
    Local band Ribs played Woking Centre Halls on 1 December 1977. Clipping from Record Mirror 3 December 1977.
    Sham 69 played Woking Centre Halls on 5 January 1978. Clipping from Record Mirror 10 December 1977.
    Sham 69 played Woking Centre Halls on 5 January 1978. Clipping from Record Mirror 1 January 1978
    19 Jan 1978: Advert for Sham 69’s second gig at Woking Centre Halls that month, this time supported by Menace, Crisis (who replaced Speedometers) and Masterswitch. Source: Neil Barker
    19 January 1978: Sham 69’s Pursey at Centre Halls, Woking
    The Crabs play Woking Centre Halls on 20 May 1978. Clipping from Record Mirror 13 May 1978.
    Neil Barker’s Center Halls, Woking Top Twenty Club Membership Card from 1979/80. Source: Neil Barker
    Review of Showcase ’88, held at Centre Halls, Woking, from Woking News & Mail 8 Sept ’88 issue. Picture courtesy of Daniel Hiscocks
    Van Gogh and the Earlobes playing at Centre Halls, Woking for Brooklands College party. Picture courtesy of Daniel Hiscocks
    Van Gogh and the Earlobes playing at Centre Halls, Woking for Brooklands College party. Picture courtesy of Daniel Hiscocks
    Van Gogh and the Earlobes playing at Centre Halls, Woking for Brooklands College party. Picture courtesy of Daniel Hiscocks
    Van Gogh and the Earlobes playing at Centre Halls, Woking for Brooklands College party. Picture courtesy of Daniel Hiscocks
    Review of a Van Gogh and the Earlobes with Naplam Groove Squad supporting at Centre Halls, Woking. Picture courtesy of Daniel Hiscocks
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  • The Choirboys

    The Choirboys

    (c’81) ?

    This Woking band opened for, News & Mail reporter, John Harlow’s Rock Night II, supporting The Mighty Strypes and M.I.5. at The Cotteridge Hotel, Woking; an event compered by Radio One writer John Tobler.

    Gallery:

    1981
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  • Redwood

    Redwood

    (c’89 – 04) Alistair Cowan (vocals / bass), Rob Blackham (guitar / vocals), Angus Cowan (guitar) and Chris Hughes (drums / vocals).

    November 1991 and Redwood are live at the University of Surrey ‘All Day Blues’ event. Source: geniustwinrecordings.com

    Alistair Cowan and Blackburn, then on keyboards, formed Redwood in Birmingham, Angus Cowan was driving his brother to practice and soon joined. Blackburn moved to guitar and Jaqui Widdowson took on keyboards, with Paul Bennett on bass and Dave Brown on drums.

    1989 Redwood’s promo photo featuring the Cowan brothers, Widdowson and Blackham. Source: geniustwinrecordings.com

    They secured gigs at The Station, Sutton Coldfield and the Coach & Horses, Balsall Heath. The cassette EP “Slowtrain to Bordom” was reportedly released in late ’89, although the cassette’s sleeve dates it as 1990.

    Redwood’s Slow Train to Bordom. Source: geniustwinrecordings.com

    After a period of stability the band was shaken down to just the Cowan brothers, probably due to a move to Woking, who won the Annual Band Competition at Guildford Uni (need to check if Guildford Tech or Surrey University). The University of Surrey’s Fun Fest ’91 had the band joining The Flowerpot Men, The Ha Ha Men, Railroad Earth, and Trousershock BC for an outdoor concert at Surrey Court student residence on 22 June. James Walker joined on drums for a year and played on the “Mary Jane” cassette EP, released in ’93. That same year they appeared at Rock Explosion 2 at the Civic Hall, Guildford. The band began to gig throughout the South East and started a newsletter titled ‘blurb’. On Walker’s departure Hughes took the sticks.

    Redwood’s “Mary Jane” Cassette sleeve Picture courtesy of Sid Stovold

    The band played a national band competition held at the Powerhouse Club in London, taking 2nd and the free days recording at Marcus Studios, London prize. They met Tim Hunt here who helped produce the self financed “Head” album. This was released in ’94 and included fan favorite “Sad Sick World”. They also met Barry Campbell who became the bands manager.

    In ’95 they started a three year run at the Phoenix Festival, with interest shown by major labels including Polydor and EMI. The free studio time that came with this interest developed into ’95’s release: “Asylum”. Airplay was received from Radio 1 and two appearances on cable TV followed; Melody Maker even gave away tickets for one of their gigs. Redwood play Splatch! at Civic Hall, Guildford on the 16 July ’95 with Headnoise, Supermodel and Disturbing Guests. On 8 August ’95 the band supported Dreamhouse and Dominic Miller, along with Margo Buchanan and John Wiffin, at Splash Club at The Water Rats, Kings Cross. ‘Splatch! Goes to London’ presented Redwood, Who Moved the Ground? and Sugar Cane at The Underworld, Camden on 12 October ’95. Towards the end of ’95 and into ’96 the band started playing more and more acoustic gigs. Local promoter Barney Jeavons had Redwood at the Civic Hall, Guildford for Splatch! on 24 November ’95 which also saw Mega City Four, Doo the Moog, Bennet, and Who Moved the Ground? take to the stage.

    The “Lazy Dog” cassette EP followed in ’96, recorded at Raeznor Studios, London with production by Steve Brown. They also toured with Vent 414 (a combo of Miles Hunt (The Wonder Stuff), Morgan Nicholls (Senseless Things, The Streets, Muse) and Pete Howard (The Clash, Eat)). “Sad Sick World” from the “Lazy Dog” EP was included on “The Best Farnborough Groove in the World – Ever!” Vol.6 compilation in ’96. Farnham ’96, on 23 November at The Maltings, Farnham, was presented by Shed Club and Bluefire Records / Snakebite City. Redwood performed at this one-day festival along with Dweeb, Posh, Supermodel, Chuck, Inter, The Hairy Things, The Bigger The God, Pharmacy, J.C. Regulator, PA Skinny, Twister, Avalanche and Snowball.

    Contrast, Redwood, Airhead and Badge played the 4 Play showcase on 31 January ’97 at London Astoria. The Farnham Fusion Festival took place the following month at The Maltings, on 15 February, and featuring Alabama 3, Womb, Beth Orton, Loop Guru, Dr Didg, Orphic Soop, Terminal Head, The Dolman, Pineapple Tribe, Fish Pig, Seed & The Bridge, Decon Prom, Jabanna, Alien Mutation, Peter Sarstedt, Blazing Homesteads, and Past Caring, along with Redwood. A single, ‘Gone’ was published in April ’97, with a video recorded at the Backline Studios, Guildford and in a basement of Angus’ then girlfriend’s home. The band subsequently were signed by A&R man Nick Paige to the US based A&M sub-label Almo Sounds; the same label as Orphic Soop.

    Picture courtesy of The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene

    In May ’97 they shared the Civic Hall, Guildford stage with Supermodel, Jolt and Inter for another Splatch! night. On 1 May they played the first of 4 in-stores at HMV, Guildford for the release of ‘Gone’ from the forthcoming album “Colourblind”, and were back at HMV on the 27 June. On 12 July ’97, Redwood played the Ambient Green Picnic, Millmead Island, Guildford. The next month (11 August), presaging the release of their album Redwood played their 3rd in-store at HMV Guildford to promote the new single ‘Claustrophobe’.

    Promo photo from ’97. Source: geniustwinrecordings.com

    A CD compilation on the Mother Stoat Recording Co. label [STOAT 006], titled ‘The Best Of Splatch!” was released in ’97 and featured Redwoods’ “Halloween” as the 6th track. Then, in November ’97, their debut album, ‘Colourblind’ was finally released. It was recorded, produced, and mixed by Mark Wallis – who had worked with U2, The Smiths and Wet Wet Wet – at Black Barn Studios, Ripley assisted by Stuart Campbell and Lloyd Gardiner; with Tony Woollard (cello) and Edward Shearmur (strings) – who a couple of years later would be writing the soundtrack for MGM’s Species II – adding depth. Again there was an in-store appearance at HMV Guildford on 27 November; the album’s release leading to several radio appearances.

    Redwood’s last release for Almo Sounds “Anything Goes” [CD ALM 49]

    Redwood’s last single release for Almo Sounds “Anything Goes” [CD ALM 49] came out on 16 March ’98. The A-side was produced and recorded by Pete Smith and was used as background music on a several episodes of Hollyoaks. The 8 May ’98 saw the first Splatch! event at Woking’s H.G. Wells Suite and this put Redwood on stage with Satellite Beach, Salamanda and Enertia. Around this time Blackman began managing and producing the now a three piece Mindwire. Supported by Carina Round, Hangman, and Dan Whitehouse; Redwood were part of the Ronnie Scott’s (Birmingham) Songwriters Festival on 27 July ’98. They were back at H.G. Wells Suite on 18 December ’98 for The Christmas Best of Splatch! that also featured Kilter, Jetpak, and Enertia.

    Redwood ceased in 1999, the members forming Lazydog. In July 2000 they performed at Guildford Live as Lazydog and the ’Redwood’ album, which was released in September, was available under this name too. It was in late 2000 that the Almo Sounds label collapsed and the band may have disbanded for a while. In 2001 Hughes joined Mindwire after their previous drummer decided to leave. Redwood then officially split in 2004.

    In 2006/07 Redwood reformed to play a benefit gig for a seriously injured friend and subsequently played at GuilFest in 2007 and 2008. A collection of B-sides and unreleased tracks, titled “Roadtrip” [GTR001MCD] was released in 15 July ’07 especially for Guilfest 2007. Blackham went on to be a producer for The Cooper Temple Clause and Reuben among others. The Cowan brothers have played 2 acoustic gigs as Redwood, at the Guildford Festival in 2003 and at Surrey University, in May 2004, and Alistair released a solo album, “Why Can I See Stars” in February 2005. Several members currently play together as a function band called Rollercoaster.

    Tracks:

    Gallery:

    23 November 1996: Redwood performed at this one-day festival. Source: Sarah Drover via Inter
    23 November 1996: Redwood performed at this one-day festival. Source: Sarah Drover via Inter
    On 15 July 2007 Redwood released the “Roadtrip” [GTR001MCD] CD LP. compiled especially for Guilfest 2007, carrying various remastered B-sides and unreleased tracks.
    15 February 1997: The Farnham Fusion Festival took place at the Maltings, featuring Redwood, amongst others
    12 October 1995: Splatch Goes to London and presents Redwood, Who Moved the Ground? and Sugar Cane at The Underworld, Camden, London. Source: Who Moved The Ground?
    Redwood appeared at the Ambient Green Picnic, Guildford in 1998. Source: The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    Redwood appeared at the Ambient Green Picnic, Guildford in 1998. Source: The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    27 July 1998: Redwood, supported by Carina Round, Hangman, and Dan Whitehouse, were part of the Ronnie Scott’s (Birmingham) Songwriters Festival. Source: The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    Redwood’s “Sad Sick World” was included on “The Best Farnborough Groove in the World – Ever!” Vol.6 compilation in 1996. Picture courtesy of Pete Cole.
    31 January 1997: Contrast, Redwood, Airhead and Badge played the 4 Play showcase at London Astoria. Advert from NME. Source: The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    8 August 1995: Redwood supported Dreamhouse and Dominic Miller, along with Margo Buchanan and John Wiffin at Splash Club at The Water Rats, Kings X. Source: The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    8 May 1998: Redwood, along with Satellite Beach, Salamanda and Enertia played the first Splatch! at Woking’s HG Wells Suite. Source: The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    24 November 1995 and Redwood played Snatch at Civic Hall, Guildford.
    Source: The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    9 May 1997 and Redwood played Snatch at Civic Hall, Guildford. Source: The Surrey & NE Hants Music Scene
    8 May 1998 and Redwood played Snatch at HG Wells Suite, Woking. Source: The Surrey & NE Hants Music Scene
    16 June 1995 and Redwood play Splatch at Civic Hall, Guildford. Source: The Surrey & NE Hants Music Scene
    Head album band photo. Source: geniustwinrecordings.com
    1990 Redwood promo photo, with female standin for non-existent drummer. Source: geniustwinrecordings.com
    Redwood’s “Thinkers”. Source: geniustwinrecordings.com
    The Best Of Splatch! was a CD compliation released in ’97 on the Mother Stoat Recording Co. label [STOAT 006] and features Redwoods’s “Halloween” as the 6th track.
    The Best Of Splatch! was a CD compliation released in ’97 on the Mother Stoat Recording Co. label [STOAT 006] and features Redwoods’s “Halloween” as the 6th track.
    The Best Of Splatch! was a CD compliation released in ’97 on the Mother Stoat Recording Co. label [STOAT 006] and features Redwoods’s “Halloween” as the 6th track.
    The Best Of Splatch! was a CD compliation released in ’97 on the Mother Stoat Recording Co. label [STOAT 006] and features Redwoods’s “Halloween” as the 6th track.
    The Best Of Splatch! was a CD compliation released in ’97 on the Mother Stoat Recording Co. label [STOAT 006] and features Redwoods’s “Halloween” as the 6th track.
    1993 from SUSU Barefacts magazine. Source: The Surrey & NE Hants Music Scene
    16th January 1997 gig review from SUSU Barefacts magazine. Source: The Surrey & NE Hants Music Scene
    A stack of Redwood demos… Source: The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    Redwood advert from early 1993 published in University of Surrey Student Union Barefacts zine. Source: The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    Redwood appeared in the Gerfump fanzine in early ’96. Picture courtesy of The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    Redwood’s “Colourblind” reviewed in SUSU Barefacts (date unknown). Picture courtesy of The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    Redwood reviews in SUSU’s Barefacts in ’92. Picture courtesy of The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    Redwood to play unplugged at SUSU, taken fro, Darefacts, 26 Sept 1997, Picture courtesy of The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    “A Taste Of Blurb” the Redwood Newsletter from Oct 95, Issue 5 3/4. Picture courtesy of The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    Redwood review from a unknown mag on an unknown date. Picture courtesy of The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    Redwood headline gig reviewed in Kerrang, 18 Nov 1997. Picture courtesy of The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    Redwood’s “Mary Jane” Cassette, Side 1. Picture courtesy of Sid Stovold
    Redwood’s “Mary Jane” Cassette, Side 2. Picture courtesy of Sid Stovold
    12 July 1997: Redwood played the Ambient Green Picnic, Millmead Island, Guildford. Source: GuilFin
    Cover of Redwood’s Blurb Newsletter Issue 7 January 1996. Picture courtesy of The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    Page 2 of Redwood’s Blurb Newsletter Issue 7 January 1996. Picture courtesy of The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    Page 3 of Redwood’s Blurb Newsletter Issue 7 January 1996. Picture courtesy of The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    Page 4 of Redwood’s Blurb Newsletter Issue 7 January 1996. Picture courtesy of The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    Pete Cole reviews the The Very Best of Splatch gig at Civic Hall, Guildford on 24 Nov 1995 with Redwood, Doo The Moog, Bennet, Who Moved The Ground?, and Mega City Four, published in Making Music Dec 1995.
    24 November 1996: Flyer front and back listing Redwood as playing the Main Stage at University of Surrey Students’ Union. Source: The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    Redwood’s gig at Red Rose Theatre, Rugeley on 21 November 97 was previewed by Louise Grifferty the day before in a local Cannock paper. Source: The Surrey & NE Hampshire Music Scene
    18 March 1993: Rock Explosion 2 with Who Moved The Ground?, Summersalt, Redwood and ? at Civic Hall, Guildford. Source: Who Moved The Ground?
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  • Station 360

    Station 360

    (c’81-85) Andrew Fawcett (drums), David Hailes (guitar / backing vocal), Ian Lucas (vocals / guitar), and Martin Smith (guitar).

    In ’77, 3 of the members were originally in Go while still at Mill Chase School, they were then joined by Smith (not the Martin Smith of Life Limited / Vox Pop fame) and the new band were named after an aircraft part.

    Although from the Midhurst area – the Midhurst Detours scooter ‘gang’ would often travel to their gigs, not to mention fill The Grange in Midhurst – this early 80s band were popular on the Woking Mod scene and often played at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Fans would organize double decker buses to travel to the far flung gigs in Putney and other London venues. On 27 November ’82 the band were supporting New Rays of Radiance at Barbados House, Bordon, along with Flapp and Columbia.

    “DANGER Government Health WARNING This Recording MUST Be Played Loud”. 1983’s The Beat Collection cassette.

    In ’83 they released “The Beat Collection” demo cassette, recorded at Satellite Recordings, Grayshott and engineered by Ken Marshall, featuring “Sitting Pretty”, “Forever & Ever”, “Children Of Tomorrow”, “Looks Like Rain”, and “Secrets” and the spine message “DANGER Government Health WARNING This Recording MUST Be Played Loud”. We know they played at The Robin Hood, Stanford that year too.

    The following year the now very collectable “The Optimist” [STA360] 7″ was independently released, with “Stars” and “Companies” on the b-side. Station 360 were listed as one of the ‘future attractions’ on the reopening of the revamped West End Centre Aldershot on 13 January ’84. On 17 March ’84, Station 360 were at The Royal, Guildford, supported by Kalibre. 1984 also saw them play at the Brighton Mod run / rally and support Squire in Aldershot with The Dansette.

    Limited edition ‘A Sound of Today – Best of Station 360’ CD. Picture courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records

    In 2000, James Perrett put together a best of CD for the band of which maybe a handful were produced.

    Tracks:

    Gallery:

    Live at the Robin Hood, Standford in 1983. Picture courtesy of James Perrett
    Live at the Robin Hood, Standford in 1983. Picture courtesy of James Perrett
    Live at the Robin Hood, Standford in 1983. Picture courtesy of James Perrett
    Live at the Robin Hood, Standford in 1983. Picture courtesy of James Perrett
    Picture courtesy of James Perrett
    17th March 1984 and Station 360 are at The Royal, Guildford
    Sleeve (front) of ‘The Optimist’. Picture courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records
    Sleeve (back) of ‘The Optimist’. Picture courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records
    A-side of ‘The Optimist’. Picture courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records
    B-side of ‘The Optimist’. Picture courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records
    Station 360 get a mention in this article on the Woking Mod scene, written b John Atkinson and Stuart Roe, from the ‘Angry Voices’ #2 fanzine. Picture courtesy of Col Bird
    News & Times article 23th April 1983
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  • M.I.5.

    M.I.5.

    (c’78-’82) Keith Smart/Renton (vocals / bass), Kevin Leigh/Buckley (guitar) and Pete Muller (drums).

    M.I.5. at The Woodenbridge, May 1980

    The band responded to an ad by sending a demo cassette carrying “Alright On The Night” to Bernice. Bernice turned out to be ATV Music Publishing (now part of Sony). The band eventually signed to the Public Records label owned by Patrick Campbell-Lyons, half of cult symphonic-rock band Nirvana and with whom Smart would appear on Nirvana’s ’96’s ‘Orange and Blue’ LP, and fashion designer Gloria Satin. The band ended up recording tracks at Startling Studios with engineer Keith Byres at Tittenhurst Park, the former home of John Lennon, and RMS Studios, London through November 1979, resulting in the release of the 7″ single, “Alright On The Night” [PUB-002] in 1980. The B-side contained two songs, “Don’t Make Waves” and “Television Screen Heroes”.

    Woking based Smart lead the band to playing in and around the town regularly as well as South London. On 31 January 1980, M.I.5, supported by The Different I’s, appeared at the Rock Against the Cuts concert at City University, London. Keeping up the activism M.I.5. joined Panther and Haley’s Vomit on 31 May ’80, for an anti-nuclear armament benefit party, at the Church Hall, Woodham. On 16 July the band were in Brixton, performing at the Old Queen’s Head; two days later, on 18 July, they were at The Cotteridge Hotel, Woking. M.I.5. closed out July on Thursday 31 at Snoopy’s, Richmond. The next month, on 6 August, they could be found at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. The band also rehearsed at 5 Patcham Terrace, Battersea; Toyah Wilcox’s home, where a photography session provided the band photo for the back sleeve of their debut single.

    M.I.5’s Smart on stage at the City of London University in 1980. Source: Keith Smart via M.I.5

    M.I.5’s single received airplay on John Peel’s 27 May 1980 Radio 1 show; who, along with Mike Reed, championed the band. In early January ’81, Leigh lost it with audience at The Cricketers, Westfield, with many of the audience departing or vowing to avoid the band. They also headlined, News & Mail reporter, John Harlow’s Rock Night II, supported by The Choirboys and The Mighty Strypes, at The Cotteridge Hotel, Woking that year. Brian Taylor (keyboards) joined in ’81 and shortly after that Smart left to form Cutting Edge with Steve Baker of Squire; then GZ Image with Keith Roworth c’85.

    “Television Screen Heroes” featured on the 2 CD compilation “Millions Like Us. Source: M.I.5

    In Dec 2014, the band’s “Television Screen Heroes” was included on disc 2 of the “Millions Like Us – The Story Of The Mod Revival 1977-1989” box set on the Cherry Red Records label.

    Towards the end of M.I.5., Smart and Leigh worked on a project they titled Blinded by Science whose demo received a glowing review in Melody Maker. Smart performed at the Ronnie Lane Tribute at The Royal Albert Hall in April 2004 and at the Syd Barrett Tribute at the Union Chapel, Islington in September 2006. He is a founding member and currently performing in the The St John’s Wood Affair.

    Tracks:

    Gallery:

    MI5’s vocalist looses it with audience at Cricketers, Westfield. Clipping from the Soundscene column of 15 Jan 1981. Source: Mark Nesbit
    Later that month, on 31 January 1980: Ticket for M.I.5, supported by The Different I’s, Rock Against The Cuts concert at City University, London. Source: M.I.5.
    M.I.5. at The Woodenbridge, May 1980
    Woking News & Mail
    M.I.5 rehearsing at Toyah’s Battersea abode in 1980. Source: Keith Smart via M.I.5
    M.I.5’s Keith Smart on stage at the City of London University in 1980. Source: Keith Smart via M.I.5
    M.I.5. with the Junction 13 Scooter Club, outside The Woodenbridge, Guildford c’80. Source: Stephen Shilcock via Guildford Town Past & Present
    9 May 1980: Deep in M.I.5’s archives was this cassette recording of their gig at The Wooden Bridge, Guildford. Source: M.I.5
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  • East of Karma

    East of Karma

    (c’83 or ’84) Pete Buckler (bass) & ?

    In late 1970 Buckler had formed Impulse with his twin brother, and future drummer with The Jam, Rick. He then went on to form Static in ’78, before pulling East of Karma together.

    Gallery:

    Soundscene (17 February 1983). Picture courtesy of William de Kock
    , , , ,

  • The 1990 Gig List

    The 1990 Gig List

    What follows is a list of gigs, with images of tickets, adverts and flyers where possible, either at GU postcode venues or featuring bands, listed in bold, we like to claim are part of the Woking/GU Soundscene in 1990:

    January 2
    Opera on the Green, London: Yellow Darkness

    Jan-Feb 1990: Yellow Darkness gig list. Picture courtesy of Marcus Cowley

    January 13
    Buzz Club, West End Centre, Aldershot: The Charlatans w/ The Vinegar Blossom

    January 15
    Rock Garden, Covent Garden: Yellow Darkness

    January 19
    West End Centre, Aldershot: Ride w/ The Ogdens, Lost T-Shirts of Atlantis, and Heisenberg

    January 20
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Frantic

    January 21
    University of Surrey, Guildford: Energy Orchard
    White Hart, Farncombe: Rockit Men

    21 January 1990: Rockit Men rocked the White Hart, Farncombe. Picture courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records

    January 24
    The George, Ash Vale: Frantic

    January 26
    Civic Hall, Guildford: Guru Josh w/ Brother Einstein

    January 27
    All Saints Church Hall, New Haw: Backlash w/ Strangeland, Minds Eye, Alternative Low, and Snaggletooth
    Fox and Hounds, Fleet: Frantic w/ Sticky Solution

    Frantic at Fox and Hounds, Fleet. Picture courtesy of Chewtonia

    January 31
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Big Wednesday

    Big Wednesday at The Cricketers, Westfield. Picture courtesy of Nathan Argonaut

    February 2
    Civic Hall, Guildford: The Quireboys

    February 3
    Salesian College, Farnborough: Who Moved The Ground?

    February 4
    University of Surrey, Guildford: Cry Before Dawn

    February 6
    The Powerhaus, Islington: Yellow Darkness

    February 9
    Town Hall, Haslemere: Who Moved The Ground?
    Civic Hall, Guildford: The Beloved

    February 14
    The Palace, Aldershot: Who’s The Spy w/ Blue Velvet

    February 15
    British Legion Hall, Fleet: Who Moved The Ground?

    February 17
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Backlash w/ Big Wednesday

    17 February 1990: Backlash with Big Wednesday. Picture courtesy of Nathan Argonaut

    February 20
    The George, Ash Vale: Blue Velvet
    Civic Hall, Guildford: The Blues Band w/ Sammy Rat’s Big Big Blues Band

    20 February 1990: Sammy Rats supports The Blues Band

    February 21
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Big Wednesday

    February 22
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Blue Velvet

    February 24
    University of Surrey, Guildford: Sammy Rat’s Big Big Blues Band

    Sammy Rat’s played Surrey University Rag Week in ’90…

    February 26
    Lady Owen Arms, Islington: Frantic w/ Dan Dare’s Dog, and Gash

    Picture courtesy of Chewtonia

    February 27
    Brixton Academy, London: The Cramps w/ Mega City Four, and Blur

    March 2
    Civic Hall, Guildford: Quireboys
    West End Centre, Aldershot: Mega City Four w/ Neds Atomic Dustbin & Blue Velvet

    2 March 1990: Blue Velvet supporting Neds Atomic Dustbin and Mega City Four at The West End Centre. Picture courtesy of Pete Cole

    March 5
    Vienna, Lincoln: Three Times The Crow

    March 6
    The George, Ash Vale: Who Moved The Ground?

    March 7
    Civic Hall, Guildford: Everything But The Girl

    March 10
    Union Building, Aldershot: Who Moved The Ground?
    The Maltings, Farnham: Blodwyn Pig

    March 17
    Civic Hall, Guildford: Guru Josh
    The White Horse, London: Mega City Four
    The Lion Brewery, Ash: Rockit Men

    17 & 18 March 1990: Rockit Men were at Lion Brewery, Ash and White Hart, Farncombe respectively. Picture courtesy of Ben’s Collectors Records

    March 18
    White Hart, Farncombe: Rockit Men

    March 19
    Civic Hall, Guildford: The Stranglers

    March 27
    The George, Ash Vale: Who Moved The Ground?

    March 29
    The Malting, Farnham: Sonny Black

    March 31
    West End Centre, Aldershot: Who Moved The Ground? w/ The Sack, The Fear and Frantic

    31 March 1990: Who Moved The Ground?, supported by Fear, The Sack, and Frantic, were at the West End Centre, Aldershot. Source: Who Moved The Ground?

    April 1
    The Maltings, Farnham: The Hamsters

    April 2
    Civic Hall, Guildford: It Bites w/ The Colour Red

    April 6
    West End Centre, Aldershot: Explodehead w/ After The Dream, The Screaming Benders, The Deep Season (in bar), This Witness, and Cow.
    The Railway Inn, West Hampstead: The Colour Red

    April 7
    The Compasses, Egham: The Colour Red
    West End Centre, Aldershot: Spliff Riff

    April 11
    The Three Lions, Godalming: The Colour Red

    April 12
    Civic Hall, Guildford: Adamski and Seal

    April 16
    Civic Hall, Guildford: Suzanne Vega
    The Buzz Club, West End Centre, Aldershot: The Deep Season w/ After The Dream, and This Witness

    1990: A number of Buzz Club items on this West End Centre, Aldershot info sheet. Source: Who Moved The Ground?

    April 17
    Mean Fiddler, Harlsden: The Colour Red

    April 20
    The Cricketers, Westfield: The Colour Red

    April 21
    Dryden Hall, Popley: The Herb Conspiracy w/ Vinegar Blossom, and Still

    April 26
    The Cricketers, Westfield: The Big Wednesday w/ The Staggerance

    26 April 1990. Picture courtesy of Nathan ARguat

    April 27
    West End Centre, Aldershot: African Rhythm w/ Abdul Tee-Jay’s Rokoto
    The Hatch, Old Basing: Cryin’ Out Loud

    April 28
    Fox & Hounds, Fleet: Who Moved The Ground?
    Civic Hall, Guildford: The Shamen

    May 2
    The George, Ash Vale: Frantic

    May 5
    The George, Ash Vale: Who Moved The Ground?

    May 12
    West End Centre, Aldershot: Snuff w/ The Sect

    May 17
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Big Wednesday w/ Backlash (playing as Brick Shithouse)

    May 19
    The Wyvern, Church Crookham: Who Moved the Ground?
    Village Hall, Sunningdale: International Resque, Cesspit Rebels, Coelacanth, Big Wednesday, and Shaft

    May 20
    The Leadmill, Sheffield: Mega City Four w/ The Bollweevils, and The Things

    20 May 1990: Mega City Four played The Leadmill, Sheffield.

    May 21
    The Duchess, Leeds: Mega City Four w/ The Milltown Brothers

    May 26
    The Marquee, London: Mega City Four w/ Les Thugs, and The Things

    May 27
    Options Nightclub, Kingston: Backlash w/ The Peterie, Flavour Zone, and Alien Threat

    May 29
    Portsmouth Polytechnic, Portsmouth: The Charlatans w/ The Vinegar Blossom

    May 30
    Bierkeller, Bristol: The Charlatans w/ The Vinegar Blossom

    June 1
    Nelson Mandela Building, University of Sheffield: The Charlatans w/ The Vinegar Blossom

    June 5
    The Cunningham, New Addington: Who Moved The Ground?

    June 8
    Community Centre, Mychett: Who Moved The Ground?

    June 9
    West End Centre, Aldershot: Carter The Unstoppable Sex Machine w/Frantic and Bubble Eyed Dog Boys

    June 11
    Opera on the Green, Shepherd’s Bush: Backlash w/ The Signed

    June 15
    LA’s, Kings Lynn: Frantic
    Buzz Club, West End Centre, Aldershot: Eusebio w/ Vinegar Blossom, and Here Comes Jordan (Flowered Up cancelled)

    15 June 1990: Flowered Up supported by Vinegar Blossom and Here Comes Jordan played The Buzz Club at West End Centre, Aldershot. Picture courtesy of Andy Mabbutt

    June 20
    The North Camp, Farnborough: Who Moved The Ground?

    June 29
    The Cricketers, Tongham: Who Moved The Ground?

    July 1
    A Barn, Box Hill: Who Moved The Ground? w/ The Sack

    July 2
    The Park Royal, Ealing: Who Moved The Ground? w/ Mother Spiral

    July 6
    Labour Hall, Cove: Who’s The Spy? w/ Frantic

    July 7
    West End Centre, Aldershot: Who Moved The Ground? w/ Ludicrous Lollipops (who were touring their ‘Mush’ EP)

    July 13
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Backlash

    July 14
    The George, Ash Vale: Melt Down
    Four Horseshoes, Camberley: Who Moved The Ground?
    West End Centre, Aldershot: Adrian Legg
    Borough Hall, Godalming: The Ha Ha Men w/ Yellow Darkness, Bushpigs, Octopussy and M.O.E.

    14 July 1990: The Myriad Syndrome II. Picture courtesy of Marcus Cowley

    July 18
    The North Camp, Farnborough: Who Moved The Ground?

    July 23
    Rayzels, Bletchley: Who Moved The Ground? w/ The Sack

    July 25
    The George, Ash Vale: Killing Faith

    July 28
    The Cricketers, Westfield: The Sack

    August 1
    The George, Ash Vale: Backlash w/ Big Wednesday
    The North Camp, Farnborough: The Sack

    August 2
    The Compasses, Gomshall: Backlash w/ Big Wednesday
    Civic Hall, Guildford: Showcase ’90 with Lannoy, Bon Booshe, Big Belief, The Ha Ha Men, Joy, Yellow Darkness, Sabena, Lost Weekend, and Kickback

    2 August 1990: Poster for Yellow Darkness at ABC Music’s Showcase ’90. Image courtesy on Marcus Cowley
    Showcase ’90. Picture courtesy of Martin Holmes

    August 3
    The Silver Birch, Greatham: The Sack

    August 7
    Corn Exchange, Dorchester: Blyth Power w/ Shelley’s Children, and WOB

    August 8
    The Park Royal, Hanger Lane: The Sack

    August 9
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Big Wednesday w/ Backlash

    August 14
    Stick Of Rock, Bethnel Green: Who Moved The Ground?

    August 16
    “The Oven” at The Bun Shop, Surbiton: Backlash w/ Big Wednesday
    The Compasses, Gomshall: Three Times The Crow

    August 19
    The Bell Inn, Frogmore: The Sack

    August 24
    Reading Festival: Mega City Four

    August 28
    Old Queens Head, Brixton: Who Moved The Ground?
    The Axe, Boston: Three Times The Crow

    August 31
    The George, Ash Vale: Three Times The Crow

    September 1
    Labour Hall, Cove: Bubble Eyed Dog Boys w/ Who Moved the Ground?, and The Sack
    The Rails, Euston Station: Three Times The Crow

    September 3
    Lady Owen Arms, Islington: Who Moved The Ground?

    September 8
    West End Centre, Aldershot: Mega City Four w/ Trousershock B.C.

    September 11
    The Grey Horse, Kingston: Backlash w/ Big Wednesday & Dick Normal

    Picture courtesy of Nathan Argonaut
    Picture courtesy of Nathan Argonaut

    September 14
    West End Centre, Aldershot: Who Moved The Ground? w/ Pomeroy, Sloth and After The Dream

    September 15
    Barnfield Centre, Kingston-Upon-Thames: Who Moved The Ground?

    September 18
    The George Robey, Finsbury Park: The Sack

    September 19
    The North Camp, Farnborough: Who Moved The Ground?

    September 21
    The Plough, Kenton: Who Moved The Ground? w/ Golden Shower

    September 26
    Cartoons Club, Reading: Three Times The Crow
    Rock Garden, London: Direct Heat

    September 28
    Caribbean Club, Basingstoke: Vinegar Blossom
    The George, Ash Vale: Explodehead w/ Flowers of Sacrifice

    28 Sept 1990: Explodehead, supported by The Flowers of Sacrifice (their first gig), were at The George, Ash Vale. Picture courtesy of Pete Cole

    September 30
    The Lady Owens Arms, London: The Sack

    October 2
    –     The Plough, Kenton: The Sack

    October 3
    Opera on the Green, London: Three Times The Crow

    October 5
    Arts Centre, Colchester: Three Times The Crow
    The Park Royal, Ealing: The Sack w/ support

    October 6
    West End Centre, Aldershot: Who Moved the Ground? w/ Phobia and Three Times The Crow

    October 10
    The Old Trout, Windsor: Mega City Four

    10 October 1990: MC4 were at The Old Trout as part of their Who Cares Wins tour. Source: The Old Trout, Windsor – we still miss you
    10 October 1990: MC4 are at The Old Trout, Windsor.

    October 11
    University of London Union, London: Mega City Four w/ Neds Atomic Dustbin

    October 12
    University of London Union, London: Neds Atomic Dustbin w/ Mega City Four

    October 15
    The Square, Harlow: Three Times The Crow

    October 17
    University of Surrey, Guildford: Stress

    Tour advert from Record Mirror’s 22 Sept ’90 issue for Stress’ Beautiful People Tour. Image courtesy of Pete Cole.

    October 19
    Alton College, Alton: Who Moved the Ground? w/ Herb Garden, and Chalk Garden
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Three Times The Crow

    October 20
    The Buzz Club, Aldershot: Blur, w/ The Bluebirds and The Ha Ha Men

    20 October 1990: The Ha Ha Men supported Blur at the West End Centre

    October 26
    Grey Horse, Kingston: Backlash w/ Sweet Life and Casual Affair
    Bull & Gate, Kentish Town: Blue Velvet
    Village Hall, Great Well Netherton: Three Times The Crow

    October 27
    Fox & Hounds, Fleet: Who Moved The Ground? w/ The Cloudwatchers
    Cornhill Vaults, Lincoln: Three Times The Crow

    October 28
    University of Surrey, Guildford: Milltown Brothers

    28 October 1990: Milltown Brothers play UoS, Guildford. Advert from Record Mirror 27 Oct ’90. Image courtesy of Pete Cole

    October 30
    The Grey Horse, Kingston: The Big Wednesday w/ Backlash and Girls on Dextrose
    The Palace, Aldershot: Who Moved The Ground?

    November 1
    Rock Garden, Covent Garden: Who Moved The Ground? w/ Bleach

    November 2
    Oak Farm School, Farnborough: Who Moved The Ground?

    November 3
    All Saints Church Hall, New Haw: Backlash w/ Alternative Law and The Mourning After

    3 November 1990: The Mourning After’s 1st gig at All Saints Church Hall, New Haw supporting Backlash and Alternative Law

    November 8
    Technical College, Farnborough: Who Moved The Ground? w/ Bubble Eyed Dog Boys

    November 9
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Three Times The Crow
    The Playhouse, Epsom: Who Moved The Ground? w/ Bubble Eyed Dog Boys

    November 11
    The Four Horseshoes, Camberley: Who Moved The Ground?

    November 12
    University of Surrey (Lower Bar), Guildford: Railroad Earth

    November 14
    “Fresh” at The King’s Head, Fulham: Backlash w/ Mother Machine, and Mecca

    November 15
    The Cricketers, Westfield: The Big Wednesday

    November 17
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Backlash w/ The Staggerance
    Buzz Club, West End Centre, Aldershot: Five Thirty

    17 November 1990: Five Thirty played the Buzz Club. Advert from Record Mirror 10 Nov ’90. Image courtesy of Pete Cole

    November 19
    The Square, Harlow: Who Moved The Ground? w/ The Mysterons

    November 22
    The George, Ash Vale: F.I.R
    The Maltings, Farnham: Snatch It Back
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Short Street

    November 23
    The George, Ash Vale: Explode Head

    November 24
    The George, Ash Vale: The Press
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Smoke Stack
    The Cartoon, Croydon: Backlash (afternoon)

    November 25
    The George, Ash Vale: Rusty Bucket

    November 28
    Farnham Maltings, Farnham: Rod Garfield Blues Band

    November 29
    The Cricketers, Westfield: New English

    November 30
    Lady Owen Arms, Angel Islington: Backlash
    The Cricketers, Westfield: The Big Wednesday

    December 1
    University of Surrey, Guildford: Yellow Darkness, The Hamsters, Gypsie Fiddler, Big Belief, Ample Cleavage, The Ant Hill Mob, Sammy Rat’s Big Big Blues Band, and Dr. Brown.
    Civic Hall, Guildford: Bob Geldof

    December 6
    The Old Trout, Windsor: Cardiacs

    December 7
    The Old Times, Ipswich: Who Moved the Ground? w/ The Mysterons
    Sir George Robey, London: Creaming Jesus w/ Wart Farmers, and Big Boy Tomato

    December 8
    Telecom Club, Aldershot: Who Moved the Ground? w/ Deceased Disease
    West End Centre, Aldershot: Sun w/ The Sack
    Art College, Farnham: Beautiful People

    December 10
    “Clubhouse” at Old Queen’s Head, Stockwell: Backlash w/ Goldwater

    December 14
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Backlash w/ Girls on Dextrose

    December 21
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Big Wednesday w/ Backlash

    December 24
    Tumbledown Dick, Farnborough: Who Moved the Ground?

    December 27
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Backlash

    December 28
    The Cricketers, Westfield: The 68 Floods

    December 29
    The Cricketers, Westfield: Calamity Sax
    Labour Hall, Cove: Who Moved The Ground? w/ UK Subs

    Forward to
    The 1991 Gig List

    Back to
    The 1989 Gig List

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  1. Human beings takes me back to 1981. Followed them all over the Surrey reading area for a year a great band and 3 good guys playing well written songs of the era. I wish john Tim and steve well what ever they are doing now. Should reform for a few shows just like Oasis but do the wooden bridge.

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