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12/5/06
Another great jam last night
After a slow start, things really took off from around 11.30, with the arrival of some old faces. They have all been busy honing their chops judging by the standard of the playing.  No doubt this welcome late surge was in preparation for the special invitation only jam showcase which is being organised by Andy  Fiore for Tues 16^th. The event is being filmed and recorded by a professional crew. All participants are required to sign a disclaimer. All players will receive a DVD of the event (after it has been edited). At the last count there were 28 players on the list, so it’s essential that we have quick changeovers with players tuned up before going on stage.  The format for the evening will be roughly the same as the Thursday night jam, although doors open at 7.30pm and finish time is scheduled for 11pm. It should be a great night.

20/05/06
It was a very busy week which started with the Tuesday jam special being recorded. This was a very successful night. Thanks to Andy Fiore and Andy Mac ( JamPot Productions Ltd.) for staging this one. Preparations for this started weeks ago, and it was due to their belief and determination in the project that it came about. I understand that the video is being edited by one of the top editors in the land at the moment, can’t wait to see the finished product. Well done to all who took part for making it a most enjoyable evening.
Thursday was a more relaxed affair, no video,  no recording gear, just players jamming. It had an after hours lazy vibe. It’s always good to see new faces, and I especially enjoyed jamming Like A Rolling Stone, (one of my favourite Dylan songs) with two new local guys. Must dig out my old vinyl copy of Chucks Motorvatin’ and brush up on Oh Carol though.

02/06/06
Last nights jam was, in my opinion, the best in a long time. We should take pride in the fact that we are not exclusively a Blues or Jazz or any one thing jam. Where else can you turn up and play any kind of music off the cuff, till one in the morning. I feel the mark of true musicianship, is when you get a real mix of musicians on stage and they produce real quality music. We had jazzers playing rock n roll, shredders playing ballads, etc. You can tell by the audience reaction if it’s good or bad. When they clear the tables from the floor and start dancing, you know you’ve got a good one. Thank you everyone who was there last night.  See you next week

Old News
(oldest at the top of the page)

17/06/06
We had 7 drummers, 4 bassists, 2 singing bassists, 9 guitarist/ singers and 2 guitarists. Not bad, now if only I could persuade some of you to turn up a bit earlier…
The highlight for me was Daryl and Stephanos trading licks for the last 25 minutes, backed up by a drummer and a bassist who knew how to hold it all together. They are two young guitarists who are surely destined for greater things. Excellent stuff.
In this age of x-factor and pop idol and all that other formulaic docu / fly on the wall mind numbing crap, it is truly heartening to have young guys pitching up and getting down on some raw blues. Is that keeping it real? Hats off to ya.
If you were wondering whats happened to Sean (co-founder of the jam at The Kings Head), then click on the postcard button.

24/06/06
I arrived early at The Kings Head with Chris Martin (Mr Rich). We were greeted by (Fretless) Andy and cameraman John who were recording interviews to augment the  Jampot productions dvd. As for the jam, - we can’t have candles on the tables anymore because it’s regarded as a fire hazard. It’s a shame because it definitely gave the room a different vibe. This weeks golden global thing goes to Dave (the singing left hand bassist who plays a right hand bass flipped over), who it turns out, can blow some blues harp. Well, he left early to catch a train, missed it, so came back to give us more. Top man. Don’t know how he got home. After the jam, loaded up the car, ( am seriously thinking of getting a smaller combo, I love the Pro Reverb but it weighs a ton, may bring my ac30 next time, at least it has 2 handles) went back with Fretless to see the first cut of the dvd. It’s looking good ! Got home around 3am. Nice cup of tea then bed, Rock n Roll!

2/07/06
It gets a trifle hot in the summer time at the Kings Head. Not least because we have to keep the windows closed. Since the pub installed the secondary glazing we have not had any complaints about noise, (to my knowledge), lets keep it that way. The noise limiter on the p.a. system is an irritation to say the least, but we can’t have the jam without it. Just when things are getting good and the volume is rising, you see the dreaded lights on the wallbox and if you don’t lower the backline volume and particularly the drums (loud drummers), in time, then you will lose the p.a. It’s all to do with environmental health, and is beyond the control of the pub. Back to the jam - This weeks golden globular goes to - Phil , no not for the shorts, but we do like a man with a big repertoire, ooh er, for his splendid rendition of Strange Brew, I’ve not heard that one at the jam before, great stuff. Sad to see a group of young newbies who left early without playing, discouraged because all they heard was songs rather than jamming. I re-assured them that this is not always the case, and that jam night is all about the people that turn up, and they decide what to play. They promised to come back next week, hope they do, because it sounds like they want some proper jamming.

08.07.06
Next weeks jam 13.07.06 will be my last for a little while as I’m taking a short break from running the jam. The other guys in the house band will look after things while I’m away. Steve did a great job with the running order list last week, and he will handle it while I’m away. I hope you all will continue supporting the jam by gracing the Kings Head with your considerable talent.

12/08/06
It was good to be back, 3 weeks away is too long. Ok, so it may not have been packed, we had around 25 in the room, but that does not mean you can’t have a good time. Once again the tables and chairs were cleared from the front and people were dancing and asking for more.  This weeks gold globe thing goes to Alan., Chris, Neil & Andy Not only do they travel a fair distance to get to the jam but they were instrumental in keeping it going the previous weeks when the plans I made went wrong . Special thanks to Alan for filling in ,solo style, early doors during the last jam.

18/08/06
So, Chris (that’s Mr Rich) and myself gets there and set up as usual, we get a txt from fretless at 8.50 to say he’ll be there at 8.45 (?). We are in a forgiving mood though because he has got our pre -ordered copies of The DVD, very good it is too, available to all players who performed at that recorded session for a little under £10. Anyone else can buy one for £19.95 from fretless Andy www.jampotproductions.co.uk
Anyway we thought it was going to be a quiet night, after only a few people came in at 9pm when the doors opened. However a group of young punks (and I use the term affectionately) came in and put their names on the list. Well, by 9.30 they had around 30 supporters in the place, and were eager to get on with things. So, I got them on stage, the audience were very patient while they got ready. We let them have around 30 minutes, and although they were very raw, they were very well received. No sooner had they left the stage, it seemed like the whole place emptied out on to the street. Nice bunch of lads with a pleasant appreciative following though, and they all came back in later for more. Willy and his friends delivered their usual high quality sounds (I wonder how many more sessions they can do without repeating themselves). It was good to see and hear Boyann again, his enthusiasm is so infectious. Vicki was there at the end with fretless Andy doing Stormy Monday as a duo, while we were locked in. Oh yes, well, there was something going on outside with the police, so we couldn’t get out for a while.

25.08.06
Even when things seem a bit quiet there’s always something going on. Seemed like everything was against us this week. The main road was closed for a start, something to do with water works, which made unloading the gear a bit tricky. Mr Rich was away, so it took a while to set things up. Thanks to Neil we had the drumming covered though.
It’s normal these days for the jam to be slow to get going, and I think we were all feeling a bit under done early on, too few people in the audience to create the atmosphere, maybe. Then, you get a spark from somewhere, and everyone’s cooking. Thanks to Will, and of course, Daryl
Are there any other pubs in London with such talented bar staff, Kat & co. Look forward to hearing more from them. I have to stress that the nature of the night is that it’s a jam, but on a night such as that, I don’t have a problem with putting solos and duo’s on. Shame it took so long for it to happen. I think there’s a case for changing the playing times, perhaps starting / ending earlier. If anyone has an opinion on that, they can join the discussion on the forum. 

22/09/06
Great jam - last night, an extra hour would have been nice. We only had a couple of glitches. It’s an impossible job trying to keep everyone happy, but when someone puts their name on the list and doesn’t bring an instrument, well there’s not much I can do about it. I don’t lend mine out to anyone and I don’t ask others to do it either. What self-respecting musician would go to a jam and expect to borrow someone else’s pride and joy?  OK I’m off my high horse now. Anyway, it’s good to have people come to me at the end saying what great value it is. Some of who came in early. Two quid for a night’s entertainment. Thanks to all who were there.

30^th Sept.2006
So did anyone else get soaked while walkin’ home in the pouring rain. Sounds like a blues slide, hellhounds on my trail at midnight kinda thang at the crossroads, (OK it was a police cordon at the traffic lights -Popes Ln. and Sth. Ealing Rd.1.30am and I was driving). Anyway great stuff from George and his mate with the SG.
Looks like the proposed changes to the format of the jam are meeting approval from you all. I will let you know when it is to start.

8.10.06
Very often the unsung heroes of the jam are the backroom staff, the guys who make it all happen. Take a pub like The Kings Head, frequent turnover of staff, and yet a well oiled machine. It is sad that Jack and Helen are now moving on. Two young hard working people who will be greatly missed on jam nights. I thank you both for your support and wish you both well for the future.

14.10.06
Well I thought this weeks jam was a great one, and so did you, judging by the comments afterwards and messages I’ve received over the last two days. It’s the people that make a jam what it is, good or bad, the players and the audience, so thanks to all who were there. 

20/10/06
Well it was slow to get going this week but that just meant the house band had more time on stage and everyone who was there had at least two opportunities to get up and jam. Not like some other jams around where you can get there early, be there all night and still not get a single chance! Oh Well! I’m going to check another jam out on Sunday to see how that one is being run.

29.10.06
Every now and then you get one of those nights when it all just comes together. Sure, we do some behind the scenes work (every week) to make it happen, but to make it really special you need ingredient X. Well this week we got X, Y and Z. First up, the room had been got ready by Ricky, moody red table cloths with tea lights and blacked out windows made an immediate impression and created a great classy atmosphere. People were knocking on the door trying to get in early, and when we did start there were lots of new players eager to get some of the action. Special mention for two very young talented bluesmen, Lewis-guitar and Dave-sax, thanks Chris for bringing them, hope they come back again. Also nice to see Craig again, taking time out for a fleeting visit. The highlight for me was Cliff and Wayne with none other than David H performing one of the best versions of Going Down Slow ever. None- musical highlight was Mrs F making a rare appearance with some friends for her birthday, nice big chocolate cake partly demolished with some help from green shirted warbler (great Hallelujah despite the over- exuberant guitars) and strange cake snaffling bluesmen. We had around 28 players that night, and it was a good mix of people, all we need now is for the pub to buy a piano! See you all next week. 

19.11.06
It was a good jam with which to end the old format. Although we had a slight imbalance of players, 9 drummers and only 3 bassists and we could have made room for a couple more guitarists and singers, the music was excellent. I have to admit to being slightly nervous about the next jam which will be the first to start early and to officially feature a band. Response has been pretty good from most people, but I worry that it's going to catch a few jammers out. The question asked most often is why change it? Answer - our jam at the Kings Head has traditionally been open 'till 1am. That means that some jammers have to wait till very late to get on stage. That may not be a problem for some, but for those that need to do a days work on Friday it is. Hopefully people can turn up early, have a jam, then still get home at a reasonable time to get a night's sleep. The featured band slot has been created for two reasons. 1/ Occasionally we get bands coming to the jam asking for time on stage to play rehearsed stuff. Obviously this is not strictly in the spirit of the JAM but we always try to accommodate them if we can. 2/ The bar upstairs is open until late. This is a huge draw for none players who want a little entertainment with their drinking. To anyone who has reservations about these changes, speak up. I do hope you all can get behind it and give it a fair go.

24.11.06
Many thanks to The Squares for topping the bill. I invited them to be our first band in the headlining slot and they did not disappoint. Great songs delivered with panache. Its so good to hear a band with sax. Thanks fellas
As I feared the 8pm opening time caught a few people out but we still had an audience from the start. Special thanks go to Bojann who provided monster bass lines at very short notice, sharing duties with Jovan. Thanks also to Neil and Chris for arriving early and for their help setting up the kit and sound checking, (yes we do actually do that). Thanks to Rupert for completing the house band with his superb array of licks, straight from the heart. Thanks to Ricky for sorting out the room again.

1.12.06
This weeks jam started at 8pm and went all the way through to 1am. Next week we are back to normal times, 9 - 1. This is because some people complained that they want some live music with their late night drinking and that the midnight finish was too early. So be it. I hope they continue to support the jam for a long time to come, even if it is from the bar next door.
We were committed to opening at 8 this week as it had already been announced. Five hours on call for the house band, and you can add another one and a half hours for setting up and striking at the end surely deserves a round of applause. Thanks Neil, Jovan and Rupert.
We had some good moments as regards the jamming. Nice to see Paul again, a great drummer. Also young Ella with (a different) Paul, both guitar, sounded really good when they loosened up. Finally thanks to Sean, Mick and Johnny Mac for entertaining us with some material we’ve not heard at the jam before.
See you next week
Andy

7th Dec - Kings Head Jam
What a weird jam it was. First we had Jovan singing Red House and doing a pretty fine job too. Then we had Chris playing guitar and singing one of his own compositions and most of us have never seen him do anything but tickle the skins. I thought it was going to be a quiet night but then in walked Dave H with Nic. What followed is best described as a lively discussion between passionate musicians. Although the talk was not just about music. Oh no, we had a comparison of talent/ ability of those over there against us over here and them over yonder. We had a survey of the best and worst places to jam and play gigs in the world (California sucks apparently). Looking around the tables I noted that we have regulars from Germany, Poland, Serbia, Greece, US, and of course UK. We have occasional visitors from lots of other countries too. I guess everyone has a different take on things about the jam etc. An experienced pro may have a different set of values to those of a semi-pro or amateur. Same as there may be differences in preferred music between young or not so young. The point I’m trying the make, is that, we are at the jam because we want to be. Not for the money or because our reputations are riding on it. I have known people to pick up work through being there, but that is a side issue. I enjoy most things about the jam at the Kings Head even when it turns into a lively debate so long as it doesn’t get too personal. Winning quote of the night - after listening to Dave’s impressive list of names played with and being asked which big names he’d played with - Chris “ Dave Brubek, Lionel Hampton,.. is that big enough for you?
See you at the next one
Andy 

Thursday 14 December.

Another strange evening at the Kings Head.
We got off to a bad start When we arrived at the the club to find that another piece of the drum kit had gone missing. Quite obviously, someone is trying to build a kit piece by piece.It will be interesting to see how they get the bass drum out!
Good to see Fretless again who travels some distance these days for his too rare performances at our jam session.
It started very quietly this evening with a few regular punters and 2 old cronies at the end of the room.They were very critical of the drummer, but then my Mum has always been honest & my Dad thought there should have been some Frank Sinatra songs. Still,you cannot please everybody!
Strangest performance of the night came from a new comer guitarist who defied any attempts from myself & Jovan to back him. Truly idiosyncratic but then so was John Lee Hooker. Cliff gave another maximum performance.Does anybody look more happy to be playing his instrument than this guy?
No Chris this week so unfortunately no chance to hear another drum solo. One of the very few who can make the drums sound interesting on their own. Big mention for Dan who not only played some damn fine guitar but saved the day when Rupert broke a string. Very nice of him to lend his axe, but then it couldn\'t be in better hands.
Hope to see you all at the last one before the festive break and a big thank you to Andy F for allowing me to write this & prove that not all drummers are illiterate.
Neil

Thu 21 December.

Last jam before xmas, and it was an interesting night. Fretless on the bass again as Jovan was still on his hols and David H also on form tonight particulary on the performance of the evening from himself with Nicola on drums, Rupert and Andy F on geetars and Andy on vocals for a superb version of \"Stormy Monday Blues\". Slightly funky for sure, and totally confident playing from all parties. David then wowed us with his \"Star\" number,\"Turning Point\". The man is always a pleasure to watch, just don\'t get him to talking about music,unless you have an hour to spare!
Good to see Paul turn up in his Santa hat, slightly the worse for wear, but still able to pound out a mean rhythmn.
Just to keep things varied we had a great solo voice perfomance,followed by a lively version of \"Gay Bar\" by Ralph who also provided us with the only concession to xmas with \"Run Run Rudolph\".
A slightly chaotic \"Born to Run\" kept things moving along nicely towards the end as the drink flowed, and a good time was had by all.
For me it\'s been a great year finally getting to play again after a twelve year lay off and making some new friends in to the bargain. Personal highlights include playing a heavy \"Wonderfull World\" with Bojan and George, finding myself on stage with 3 other musicians all keeping their cool whilst the singer lost the plot and of course the fantastic filmed session arranged by Fretless.
Oh, and also ,the interchange between Chris and David H, resulting in the best punch line I have ever heard. I am still telling the story to anybody who will listen.
Cheers to you all and see you in the new year.

Thu 3 January.

After some of the trials and tribulations towards the back end of last year, it was an absolute pleasure to be involved in a thoroughly enjoyable jam session for the 1st of the new season. To all those who contribute in some small way to keeping this thing going, and that includes just turning up, a big thank you and you know who you are.
2 names however shall not go unmentioned. -\"Fretless\" Andy, who recently has had to travel some distance for the sessions  and never lets us down, was on great form last week, playing superbly all night, due to a lack of bass players. The man was right on it, and surely has to be the hardest working man in show buisness. Well, Acton Central at any rate.
Andy F is the other name worth a mention for running the show, keeping cool, even when he feels like letting off steam, and always prepared to take a back seat if things are cooking on stage and there are players waiting. Hats raised to you both.
Like I say, a great night and lots of enjoyment. Paul played drums superbly again particulary on \"The Passenger\" with Ralph on vocals and guitar who also gave us some more renditions of songs not strictly associated with the Blues but always worth hearing. Talking of the Blues, 3 new guys, Chester , Chris and J.C. , I think, played this style of music like they were born to it. I say \"new\", obviously these fellows have years of experience behind them.
We got 3 Jazz numbers this evening. Nice to hear some Miles Davis at the Jam, but wheres Mr Rich when he would have most enjoyed it? Great stuff.
Cliff, absolutely loud and full on again, but what a player. It is an experience playing with him and no body\'s removing me from the drum stool after just 1 number with this guy so I insisted on staying for 1 more. Must be getting stroppy in me old age.
Not just Jazz and Blues but country as well now. Well done Graham, it was light hearted but well executed. More please.
Have to mention \"Oh Well\" by the houseband. Things don\'t always go to plan and this would always be tricky with it\'s awkward stops and starts ,but it had to be the worst use of a cow bell ever. It should have stayed on the cow. We turned it round later though as we warmed up and it was a pleasure as always.
A great evening,not the biggest audience but by no means the smallest, and very appreciative. Some enjoyable, \"off the cuff\" jamming, new twists on old songs, new faces, - Jeremy on drums, looking so happy it was if he had been asked to join \"The Stones\" - on his terms, and a great ending, with calls for an encore duly provided with a short, sweet, \"Blow Wind Blow\", with sharp solos from 3, yes, 3 guitarists on stage - Rupert, Graham, and Andy Falconer. Now all we need is a keyboard, a trombone and a jews harp.

Look forward to next week for some more great Jamming. Be seeing you.
                           Neil.
8th January 2007.

Its odd that only a few weeks ago we had 26 listed jammers in one evening at the Kings Head, but the numbers have dropped right down again.There is still much fun to be had and talent on display but the room seems cold and lifeless at times. This week saw me playing in a cardigan for the first time. Not very Rock & Roll, nor Rhythm & Blues, more Val Doonican.
That said it  was still an enjoyable evening. It was good to hear - "I Hear You Knocking"- being belted out by Chester. I've always had a soft spot for Dave Edmunds and it would be great to more of the mans songs performed in this envirenmont.
Sean was on good form, giving the crowd just want they want, songs to sing along to. I swear that I saw a lighter being held aloft by some people during - "Hallelujah"-. Perhaps it was just to keep warm. George seemed to be suffering from the cold more than most as he was playing in a hat and gloves. On reflection this may have had more to do with image than a question of temperature. Nice hat.
At least the drum kit held out this week, after last weeks bass drum failure. I never remember Carl Palmer or Ian Paice having this problem. Its like driving a vintage car, - You never know whats going to fall off next.
Looking forward to this Thursday as ever:- Be seing you. .................Neil.

11 January 2007.

They call it stormy Monday, but Tuesdays just as bad. What is it about this song that just brings the best out in musicians. Another stormin\' performance on Thursday, and this time from Cliff, Stelios, Jovan and Nicola again on drums.
Written in 1947, it must be the most covered blues song of all time. T Bone could not have known what he unleashed when he first played those introductory chords. Not far behind, if at all, has to be \"The thrill has gone\", just about B.Bs best known effort and thats saying something with his back catalogue. B.B. once said that he knew he had stepped up to another level, beyond his comprehension, when he walked on stage at the Fillmore West in \'67 to be greeted by a mainly white audience who gave him a standing ovation before he had even played a note. Well, the Kings Head is not quite the Fillmore, but an appreciative audience always gives it up when this song gets performed, and thats EVERY week and sometimes more than once in an evening.
Tonights gig got off to a good start with the house band knocking out 5 good uns on the trot, just to warm things up, and then stepping aside (except for Rupert), to allow, Mr Rich and  Chester, to show us some style with a fine version of  \"Straight, no chaser\" by Thelonious Monk. Jazz is becoming a little more prominent at the jam sessions and I for one welcome that. Rupert, by the way was this weeks Fretless, on stage for a large part of the evening, playing rhythm or lead , as required.
T Bone, B.B. and Monk, it was surely time for some R.E.M. and Ralph arrived on stage to deliver the goods. I\'m not a massive R.E.M. fan myself but it is good to hear some diferent styles regulary thrown in to the mix, so to speak.
Tonights was a good crowd and it\'s great to see the numbers building up again on Thursday. I love playing, whatever, any time , rehersals etc, but theres nothing like the feedback you get from an audience. Everybody is lifted. 
So, another good night, great performances from David H, Chris and another new drummer,whose name ecapes me, - sorry, and of course Graham, and Willy who always give good entertainment, with a wide variety of songs.
Look forward to seing you on Thursday the 18th and if your reading this, why not access some of the other sections of the site and if possible give us some contributions. It\'s easy, fun and well, you know you want to, so go on.

Be seing you.             Neil.


18 January 2007

It was a dark and stormy night and the first mate said to the ships captain: - Cap\'n, spin us a yarn. But thats another story. Meanwhile at the home of the Blues, the windy city,(Acton,)it was another stormin\' night. A good crowd blew in to town to make it a splendid evening, one of the best I can remember. The house band kicked off with breezy versions of Statesboro Blues and Hoochie Coochie man among others before moving over for David H, Nicola and Stefanos to entertain us with a very excellent jazz set. It dont mean a thing if it aint got that swing and this had it. Next up was Chester with Chris and Lewis, and again, all present were impressed. Fine version of I aint got you, and some good slide work from chester. Authentic sounds indeed. What happened next was quite interesting,and surprising. 5 young men dressed like indie rockers and nu yawk punks regaled us with fly me to the moon and other supper club favourites. As Des memorably said to me, he thought he might order the fish, with a nice Chablis. Great to hear some sax at the club, and, well, was this Retro Cool or post modern irony on a grand scale. You be the judge.
Striding to the front of the stage, dressed in black and holding a clipboard, whilst applauding, was Jools Holland. No hang about, its Andy Falconer,looking like he was enjoying himself immensely.
Graham was on superb form tonight, sounding in good voice and choosing the right songs to highlight this. I\'d rather be the devil was superbly executed but Turn on your lovelight was the musical highlight of the evening.Accompanied by Rupert with Paul on drums, the song really took off mid way through when Nicola picked up a tambourine that was lying around. Gospel jam for sure, I, for one, was ready to testify. (Note to the boss, bringing all this equipment sometimes pays off). The evening went from strength to strength with George and Cliff giving it some, and then some more,and a great performance of Strange Brew done in a funky style by I can\'t remember who.( Matt? A.F.) It was that sort of night. Chester, Wayne on bass and graham knocked us out with Shake your money maker played with gusto (sorry).
Big thanks to Des for standing in on bass at the last moment and performing admirably, with only 3 strings, it was a pleasure to play with you,next time bring another string.
Look forward to seing you all next week for another good un , I hope.
                     Be seing you.  ......Neil.

25th January 2007.

After the last 2 weeks bumper turnouts, numbers were down for tonights Jam, but those that turned up still had a good time.
The house band were still prepared to play to a sparse room, for around twenty minutes, though. Then   Alan, Chester, Des, and Chris got up. Alan has been away for a few weeks but it was a good return. Sharp concise, solos and a very good sound. He was matched by Chester all the way particulary on - I\'m Ready - and Chris turned in another trademark drum solo.
Next up was Phil and Andrey, on guitars, Nick on drums and Des on bass, (tonights busy boy). Great sounds emenating from Phils instrument and a quite superb solo piece from Andrey.
Along came Ralph to take us to a - Gay Bar and give us some - Teenage Kicks -. Good to have some variety in the place, we\'re not just Blues.
Every now and again a song gets played that has you rushing home to search out the original. Tonight it was - Parchman Farm - , Bukka Whites 1946 ode to the Missisippi state penitentiary where he was interred for a short while. This was fabulous stuff, in 6 minutes it went from Blues to Jazz and back to Blues again, driven along superbly by Nick on drums. At one point, in the midsection, he was swinging so hard he almost swung the band off the stage.  Graham, I think you should get out more instead of learning new songs EVERY week for the jam.
All in all, another good evening, with great songs and super playing from the likes of Jovan, George, Tim, Mr Hot, and a brief but welcome return for Steve on the drums.

Looking forward to next week already

                 Be seing you........Neil 

15 February 2007.

O.k., after last weeks comments on the down turn in numbers, here we are with a nice turn out again, good to see so many people enjoying themselves with the drink flowing and the stage crowded with talent. Literally crowded sometimes, at one point there was 6 up there including Sean and Sue on vocals on \"The Thrill has Gone\". Nice to hear that one again, it doesn\'t get played too often you know.
The Killjoys turned in a nice performance with 4 songs in an Indie style. Not everyones cup of tea but they were tight and had good rhythms with an underplayed guitar style. It was good stuff.
Alan, Des, And Phil with the drummer from the Killjoys, gave us \"Big Boss Man\" and \"let it bleed\" and better was to come from Alan later.
The sound system tonight was rather tempremental,and beset with problems - cut outs, rattles, howls and squeeks (sounds like a jesus & mary chain album), but hopefully it didn\'t spoil things too much.
Graham once again delivered some funky sounds and some rock solid Blues, the sort that most don\'t think to play, such as songs by the great sonny Boy Williamson. This one had great playing again, especially Jovan on bass playing better than ever, and some superb technical drumming by Kieran or Johhny. Sorry I can\'t remember quite who but it was brilliantly in control.
Chester is another with a good selection of great songs and after a great solo performance of ,I think, a Cream number, he teamed up with Alan to blow us away on \"one Way Out\" and \"At Home With The Blues\",including A scorching guitar solo which was almost casually matched by Alan as he came right back at him. It was all my pleasure to sit and watch Blues music played with such absolute vigour.
Also, Stefanou and Mr Hot on stage together was always gonna be good and they didn\'t dissapoint, giving it some on \"Allright Now\" backed by Nick and Des and fronted by Sean. Des\'s guitar always seems to attract a lot of attention and it does indeed have a wonderfull been through it all, been there, done that, classic aged look. so does Des.
So, heres to the next one, and I look forward to it with anticipation.....Be seing you.
                                       Neil. 

22 February 2007.

Just a few words this week due to time limitations, so i\'ll just give up some brief details.
Thirty one,(thats right 31), paying jammers this week, making it a great night out.As the more aware of you would have noticed I was running the clipboard this evening, to enable Andy to relax and converse for a change and believe me it\'s not easy trying to keep everyone happy. To my regret, a couple of guys didn\'t get to play and left dissapointed but it was hard going,trying to fit everyone in. This led to a crowded stage on more than one occasion, and a couple of Supergroups.
Seing George, David H and Sean sharing a stage together was some  sight and they were more than ably assisted by Andy F and Nikola for some Rockin\' Blues. The whole evening had a really good vibe, and there was some good performances to be viewed. However, one performance above all others deserves a mention. We have all, at one time or another had the experience, where for some reason not known, things just - well they just go so fabulously right. Everything clicks and your all on it. This week, it was the turn of Ralph, Stefanou, Phil, Des, and Dan. Ralph in particular in full flow making -  Another girl, another planet- seem like it was from, well, another planet. On each song they played they got better and better with each member giving superb accounts of themselves.They were given a rousing cheer at the end of their set and deservedly so.
This week should see Graham opening the evening with his all star band and I\'m looking forward to it allready. Lets make it another good one,so  heres to Thursday. - Be seing you.
                                    Neil.

1st March 2007.

Tonights jam was a little different, from the outset and as a result the whole evening had quite a relaxed feel to it. Good jammin\', great songs, and a lot of talent on stage.
Grahams band for the night - The Imposters - kicked off the evening for a change and it was a pleasure to sit back and watch. Jovan had arrived early to set the sound up and what a great job he did too. Perfect clarity and a bottom end that didn\'t trip out the P.A.
The Imposters were - Graham, vcls, guitar, - Chester, guitar, - Jovan, bass, - and Kieran, drums. They had just 30 mins to rehearse and they sounded like they they had been playing a bottom end that didn\'t trip out the P.A.
The Imposters were - Graham, vcls, guitar, - Chester, guitar, - Jovan, bass, - and Kieran, drums. They had just 30 mins to rehearse and they sounded like they they had been playing regulary. Nick did some recording of their set and I wouldn\'t mind hearing the result. The 2 guitars sounded great as they traded solos and G was in fine voice. As ever he chose songs to suit his vocals and after an introductory instrumental, they gave us a fine - Something Inside of Me -. I don\'t know who did the original, but this had shades of Screaming J Hawkins about it. - Turn on Your Love Light - was as exiting as ever, with fine drumming from Kieran, with some particulary fast fills as he was urged on by Graham to give it some. They ended with a deserved encore of - Blue Monk - Chester showing his jazz style and Jovan just showing off.  A good all round set. What a pity there wasn\'t more people in to see it and give us a better atmosphere. This was as good an evening as the D.V.D recording some months back but once again the numbers are down.
Next up was the house band with Des standing in for Jovan, and Thiery on Sax. I know i\'m part of this band but I hope you will forgive a slight big up here. It was a good set with the Sax sound being a fine augmentation. - Stormy Monday - sounded as good I\'ve heard it at The Kings Head,with a good mellow sound and some very fine playing by Rupert And Andy. Someone said to me later that they thought that the contrasting styles of these two and the way that they interlock is what works here and I agree with that wholeheartedly. A rowsing - Hoochie Coochie Man - finished the set and once again the sax playing gave the song a different flavour.
J.C. with Nick on drums gave us - Every things Blue - an original, I think, then Barry, Des, Stuart and Graham again knocked out some solid sounding Blues with Barrys guitar to the fore.
Claire Cunningham was on next with 3 solo songs including a very good - Big City Lights -. Fine voice and a chiming guitar creating a BIG sound. It became bigger when she was joined by Kieran and Jovan for her last song.
Tim on drums, joined Andy, Rupert and Jovan, for -Born Under a Bad Sign - and Crossroads - and then just as I was about to ring the P.R.S. and tell them to cancel the weekly royalties for - The Thrill Is Gone - Stelios takes to the stage to ensure all is well with the world. Fine version too, fantastic guitar solo.
There was no stopping Graham tonight, he wanted to play with everyone, and so he joined the houseband to close the set with a rather chaotic - The Stumble - and a very welcome - Smokestack Lightnin\' -. How often do hear this Howlin\' Wolf gem played at jams. I was glad to be part of that.
Well, I\'ve rambled on a bit , I know but it was another good evening and hopefully one to build on. Next week, as ever,  be seing you - Neil.

8 March 2007.

All music’s gotta be folk music, I aint never heard no horse sing a song. - Louis Armstrong.

Well, certainly we had a lot of folks blow in to town this Thursday and I've no idea where they tied their horses. Over 70 people crowded in to The Kings Head function room to enjoy a GREAT evening of Blues entertainment. We had 15 drummers on the list, so, with more equipment and some dustbins we could have re created the West End smash show - STOMP. Hey, it's just an idea.
Too much went on this evening for me to give every body a mention, so apologies if your not Here.
The evening started before 9.00 with Chris Martin performing 3 off the cuff drum solos for filming purposes, with a view to being placed on this website. There was only 2 of us there to witness this but it's fair to say that we were both completely gob smacked. The guy hadn't even warmed up.
O.K., pressing on, some names deserve a mention. - Rupert had brought along some young new talent this evening and I do mean talent. Joe Jones took his first ever stage appearance in front of a nicely swelling audience and backed by some of the finest musicians you could expect from anywhere. Rupert himself, David H on bass and Chris Martin on drums. What a line up, but did Joe look fazed. Not a bit of it. 2 good guitar solos and some confident backing when Rupert did his stuff. One more from him, on vocals also, and he was cheered from the stage. Deservedly so. Lets hope he comes back. Later on, young Alex took part on bass, again accompanied by Rupert, and it was pretty impressive. Some great runs and funky sounds, another confident performance from someone so young. This fellow could be one to watch, if he returns to Acton. We had a few Bassists in this evening, but the Handsome, Talented and Educated Jovan (I charge a small fee for this sort of stuff), was on good form and you just can\'t stop him taking a bass solo. Believe me, we've tried.
Performance of the night came from Stefanos, Alan, David H and Nikola. A quite superb Jazz set which was received superbly with many people standing at the end to applaud. Graham said to me that he would pay good money to see this stuff, so we will charge him double next week. By the way, Alan’s excellent guitar solos and all round performance here did not go unnoticed. Some cheeky humour from him too, on stage.
Ralph now has a fan club and it is one that has been formed with sincerity. He goes from strength to strength and is always full on. A small group of us here always look forward to his appearance and we are sure that it will soon be a large group.
Every musician here tonight made it a great evening and I am sorry that I cannot mention you all, it was a very enjoyable way to spend a few hours or more. One quick mention for Vicki though. Good to see her back, belting out the greatest blues song ever written and coincidentally with almost the same band that backed her on the D.V.D. It was a pleasure.
On to next week, - Be seeing you ...Neil.

15 March 2007.

Just a short while now until the smoking ban comes in and it could well lead to a major change at this very Jam session. I'd rather keep this page for musical matters, so if you'd like to read my opinions on this, head for the comments page. See you there.
However, some opinions can be expressed here and I’d like to say a couple of things about volume.
There are occasions when on stage we are ALL playing a bit too loud and this can trip out the P.A. - Not always the musicians fault though, as this system does seem to have it's own mind and is very erratic. We are looking in to it but no solutions as yet except to remind yous folks that its the bottom end that tends to cause the cut outs so please be mindful of that Bass or, indeed, the Bass drum.
Another side to this is the individual performer who wants to rise above every body else, so to speak. So here is a couple of choice quotes I’ve found recently.
- Willie would tell me if he wanted to hear more guitar, which is not just a matter of turning up the guitar. Music is an animal with a goodly number of legs and they all have to reach the ground. If you don\'t have enough of something or too much of something else and the other balances don't fit within that pattern, the animal limps. - MALCOLM CHISHOLM, Chess records studio engineer, taken from -I am the Blues - Willie Dixon’s autobiography.
Or, how about this from 1920's Jazz drummer, GEORGE WETTLING. - It’s not a question of 2 beats or 4. It’s a matter of feeding the band with rhythm and underlining what they're doing. That’s what you call shading. And the secret of that is simply listening to the other fellows. - From LEONARD FEATHERS excellent - The Book Of Jazz - (1957).
The point is of course, that things would just be that bit more harmonious and a bit less hard on the ears if we just paid a little more attention to the volume control. This is not Spinal Tap, and those amps should never go up to 11.
Otherwise another good evening, though slightly strange in places with a bizarrely out of sorts - Sweet Home Chicago - and a couple of other musical oddities up on stage across the course of the night. Including some unannounced guests who gave us a strange version of, well, YOU tell me what it was. It was Rock 'n' Roll Jim, but not as we know it. One word of advice - it's probably best to know at least half the words of a song before you attempt to sing it. This goes for some regulars also. I know, I know, it's a jam. But even so.
Must mention Harry who played some splendid guitar tonight and gave us a stormin' version of -Voodoo Chile - Also Chester, a fave payer of mine, who played Jazz and Blues equally well. This guy once told me he thought my drumming was authentic. Coming from him it's a real complement, this fellows the real deal. He looks and sounds like the Blues.
Good to see Fretless again, at The Kings, and also quick mentions for Johnny and Stuart, 2 brilliant drummers who are turning up regularly and are always a reliable backing for any one on stage.
No apologies for ramblin' this week. - IF IT'S IN YER, IT'S GOTTA COME OUT. To next week, then.

BE SEING YOU ...........Neil.

22 March 2007.

Those of you who are friends of this column, (and I do suspect that is not enough to form a 5 a side football team), will know the format by now. You guys turn up and play and then I write nice things about you. It's a fair deal, I'm a fan of you all anyway so it's my pleasure. Sometimes though, I'm looking for a different angle and occasionally it's the things that happen off stage that provide unusual interest. Take this week, for instance, we had a new young drummer in - Bhavesh -, and when he came to play he seemed a little nervous. In conversation with me afterwards he said that he didn’t think that the standard would be so high. How easy it is for us to forget, we have some damn fine players here and when the moods right and they hit form, well I s'pose it can be a bit daunting. What happened next though was strange and  or funny. I told Bhavesh that if he wanted to learn some tricks he could do worse than watch the next guy up - Chris Martin. Chris then proceeded to play the whole of - Freebird - one handed whilst resting his left arm on the guitar amp. This included some pretty nifty fills around the kit and full use of all the cymbals. Not exactly what I'd expected but done in good humour and even enjoyed by George, up on stage. However, somebody in the audience took exception to this and when Chris left the stage he was confronted with some sharp words, up close, by a punter who thought that he at all times should have used all limbs. Any way, a few more words were exchanged and then the poor fellow made the mistake of revealing he was from drum school. Those of you who can't guess the next comment from Chris obviously don't know him. The man is fast gaining a reputation for having the last word. Hopefully neither party was too offended because we welcome newcomers here at The Kings Head and there is nothing wrong with opinion and robust debate. By the way, this fellow was perfectly friendly to myself later, but asked me just why Chris had played one handed. I told him that it was because he could. End of.
As I said, some great playing again tonight and Andy F told me that he had very much enjoyed Chester’s performance. He went on to say that he thought this guy had a lot more in his locker that he's yet to reveal. If this is true it's frightening. Great slide work by the way. Good stuff also from an acoustic duo whose name I did not catch. Female singer with a good sound and the guitars played off each other very nicely.
All in all another good evening but I forgot to take notes so apologies that I can't mention you by name. It was as noted before, a very high standard tonight, topped off by the performance of David H and Nikola who are, these days, giving us a master class in how a rhythm section should work. Watch them up close and look out for the little signals and nods they give each other. It's an education.
Right, on towards next week, when Jovan and myself shall continue to try and outdo each other in the sartorial stakes. I'm bringing a valet with me to up the ante.  Be seeing you .................Neil.

29 March 2007.

People who know me REALLY well will know that I am about as organised as the proverbial chicken that has suffered a severe decapitation, and so it was with some trepidation that I agreed to take over from Andy F and run the Jam night while he was away. Rule 1, though, is surround yourself with good people and I am at least capable of doing that. Thanks to stirling work and assistance from Jovan and Graham with support from Des and Star support from Mick on stage, this turned out to be one of the most enjoyable and fulfilling nights I can remember at the Kings Head. Tremendous performances all round from both our regulars and the good few newcomers who turned up. Once again my only regret was not being able to fit you all in or give many of you much time on stage due to the sheer weight of numbers that turned up wanting to be B.B KING, SONNY BOY WILLIAMSON, LITTLE WALTER, HOWLING WOLF ETC for the evening. And what a good fist you all made of it.
The atmosphere really was 1st class and I was thrilled to see so many people dancing at the end of the evening. Mind you, who wouldn\'t dance, the music just had to move you. Full on performances from Ralph (again),Mr Hot, George (sounding sweeter and more restrained, more refined even than ever), Sean showing once again how to bring an audience to the boil, singing great songs and moving the band along, Chris, forgoing drum solos for plain old fashioned tight rhythms and leadership from the back and quite awesome performances from Mick on guitar as the houseband stand in with David on truly authentic Blues Harp and a touch of showmanship as he jumped in to a packed dancefloor to regale the punters with some pure Sonny Boy type blowin\'whilst on walkabout.
Harry, deserves a mention, waiting patiently for a spot and then letting rip when finally unleashed. He really was that good, unleashed is the word and he was superbly backed by his own drummer, whose name escapes me.
Paul gave a thunderous performance on drums whilst showing enough control so as not to trip the P.A. and LUKE G was another who showed his power from behind the kit.
Sound, again from Jovan, was excellent and his playing inspirational, (this I was told by more than one  musician), and the closing performance from the houseband was something that I was proud to be a part of, and I say that as someone who already plays in the best houseband I know. Sitting at the back playing along to great songs by - Fleetwood Mac- The Beatles - Sonny Boy -and - Howling wolf - was like being inside your own favourite record collection and looking out at the audience I could see that they were enjoying it as much as I was.
O.K., time to calm down, heres to next week one I\'m already looking forward to and a final note of thanks to the Bar staff who also performed excellently on the night, given the numbers involved.
Be seing you. .....Neil.

5th April 2007.

Well, well, well, here’s one for the record books. A Blues jam without any Guitarists. At least almost without Guitarists. If it wasn\'t for Graham and Rupert, the first 2 hours of the evening would have had a very strange slant. Every song would have had 2 Bass solos each one played by a different Bass player. As if to make up for the lack of six stringers, we had a total influx of low-end merchants. Not many (i.e. none) Drummers either. By 11.00 p.m., myself Graham and Rupert were exhausted before relief began to arrive in the shape of Agor, and Chester on Guitars and Ranko on drums. Ranko was quite excellent, obviously years of experience behind him and I would wager that he has played in a dance band, so relaxed and swinging was his style.
Good to see Bojan back at the Kings Head and I hope that we see more of him in the future. He was accompanied by George. late on, which gave us a third Guitarist after Rupert had left early. (knackered,probably).
Much thanks goes to everybody who put in so much effort to ensure a good evening was had by all, but in particular Bassman Chris, who ran the list early on whilst I was anchored behind the kit, and Graham, who not only played Guitar all night, sometimes struggling with cramp, but also picked up sticks for 2 songs to give me a break. Given that he was also on vocals, I was surprised that he didn't play Bass at some point just to complete the set. This, though, would have upset the other 450 Bassists waiting in line.
A good, but tiring, evening then and much talent on display as usual including an excellent Guitar battle between G and Chester backed solidly by Paul and Des. Highlight of the evening for sure.

Friday was a complete write off for me and I cannot remember the last time I felt so spent.
So, on to next Thursday which is not far away now and again I am looking forward to it (albeit, hopefully, with a few more Guitar heroes).

Be seeing you ...............Neil.

12 April 2007.

The venue - The Kings Head Acton.
The place - The Bar area, upstairs.

Whenever, musicians gather, over a pint, (or a G&T), the important questions will always, eventually, be asked. Was Jaco Pastorious the greatest electric Bass player, was Buddy Rich better than Gene Krupa and can Blue men sing the Whites? Tonight was no exception and so it was raised by Nick Cash. - What is the all time great Classic Car.
Chris Martin (Drummer) is a firm advocate of the Rolls Royce Silver Shadow II, with its unitary construction body shell, self-leveling suspension, all round disc brakes and what was then the absolute last word in comfort and luxury, with the finest air conditioning system in the world.  Myself (Drummer) put forward the 1958 Aston Martin DB4 as the most coveted example of British Sports car engineering.  A classic twin cam six cylinder 3.7 litre engine capable of producing 240 bhp at 5500 rpm, producing the most wonderful and distinctive exhaust note, this car was both sporting and extremely elegant, clothed as it was by Italian company Touring of Milan with bodywork mated to a platform chassis. Only 1110 DB4s were built up to 1963 and they remain intensely desirable.  Nick Cash (Drummer) weighed in with his choice of the 1970 Citroen Maserati and who could deny his choice of Gallic flair and eccentricity married to Italian supercar engineering of the highest order. Mechanically advanced way ahead of its time, including progressive power steering, hydropneumatic suspension, and remote control gearchange, this car set standards that could only be matched by Rolls Royce and Mercedes Benz.
The discussion was never properly concluded but lets just say that you could buy 2 Rollers and 2 Citroens for the current going rate of the DB4.


Other matters included Andy Falconer reporting that he had had a good holiday, although the flights were not good, and the miniature guitar he took away with him was a success.
David H and Nikola joined the gathering throng in the bar area and David told us how nowadays he concentrates on studio work and finds himself bored on stage. He went on to reveal that he his always bored on stage at The Kings Head and never challenged.(Actually he did go on to say that he remembered 3 occasions when he felt challenged at the K.H.  Once by Stefanos, hence the talk of diminished dis dat an dudder, second time - a bit vague, maybe it was a demand for cash at the door and third time was with the house band, didn’t say if it was a pleasurable experience though--Andy) . Then he started talking about diminished 7ths and chromatic chord sequences and it was my turn to be bored, and indeed challenged. - I just hit things. Graham involved me in a conversation about Viv Stanshall and this was far more up my street, his humour and eccentric ways, not to say fabulous songwriting and totally English way with words are still terribly missed.  Des told us some jokes, well - a lot of jokes actually, all music ones and too many for me to remember although I did enjoy - What’s the difference between a Violin and a Viola?  The Viola takes longer to burn. -.

What’s that you say? the jam?  Oh well alright then, same high standard as usual, Alex is indeed proving to be a very fine Bass player, Bavesh made up for his nerves last time out to turn in a good performance on Drums, right on the beat, and ably giving Chester, Rupert and Des what they needed, and Chester gave us a great version of - Spoonful - and also - How many more years - complete with some fantastic feedback.
Must mention the Freaky-dancing going on down the front. Its nice to see these people enjoying themselves, - I just wish I knew what was going on. Perhaps I don’t drink enough.

So, on to next week for some more great Jamming and conversation and I very much look forward to reporting on the action in and around the car park.

Be seeing you .............Neil.

19 April 2007.

Tonight at The Kings Head we were missing - Chris, Paul, Graham, Chester, Sean, Nick and Stefanos and I\'m sure that any other club would have suffered from that loss. Such is the range, depth and breadth of the talent here though that once again I have to report that this was another cracking night of entertainment. The Bass players alone put on a fine show throughout the evening.  Bojan is one of the most infectiously enthusiastic people I know, both as a person and on stage, whilst David H always performs to a high standard, Des is solid and reliable, Alex is now a regular and popular performer and Jovan, well, more about him later.
I have never, ever in my lifetime lost my obsessive enthusiasm for music since I first properly discovered it at age ten, and nights like tonight still get me over excited even though I am now near the half century. Blue Beyond (the house band) set the pace early on with a good bluesy and rock n roll flavored set with Ralph guesting later on harmonica. After a few more Blues based numbers from various regular Jammers we had the pleasure of this evenings guest band - The British Army - with King Head regulars David H on Bass and Nikola on Drums. Vocalist Robin told me later that the name was in tribute to British troops abroad and tonight she really was the Queen of the little red, white and blue. This band were HOT and went over very well with an audience not used to hearing this kind of music here on a Thursday. It is normally Blues based but we always welcome something different and hearing - I Want You Back- and - If I cant Have You - in this setting was a welcome experience. Superb playing from all members of the band and it was good to see Keyboards on stage adding flavour and texture to a high standard of musicianship and singing. The piano guy (Janos)wore a nice hat as well and I am a great believer in sartorial standards on stage. They were given a great reception at the end of their set and would be welcome back anytime, this was superior stuff.
With the ante well and truly upped, the pace for the rest of the evening was set. Emir, George, Boyann and Tim gave us what could only be described as Guitar porn as they knocked off versions of - Sultans of Swing- and - Comfortably Numb - and watching Hot and George trading licks whilst Boyann and Tim thrashed out the rhythm was the stuff of Rock n Roll legends - in Acton.
After another fine set from Blue Beyond, finally getting to play mid evening instead of the graveyard shift, with some fine vocals from Gary, sitting in, (Sugar Coated Love, Mojo, excellent), we were then treated to one of the more astonishing Blues performances that I can remember here. Wayne on Bass, Steven on Drums and Cliff on Guitar.  - Red House -, a quite haunting - I put a spell on You - and finally after a change that saw Wayne switch to the kit and Jovan take over on Bass, an absolutely awesome version of - Going Down Slow - featuring the best Bass solo I have ever heard. It just grew and grew and the audience let show their appreciation in full.  I was absolutely thrilled to see this sort of entertainment taking place for the entrance fee of £2 a person and I couldn’t contain my excitement.  This truly IS the only place to be on a Thursday night. And that, my friends is why I shall be back next week and if we have the full complement of regulars showing their moves I may well faint with the thrill of it all.

Heres to Thursday be seeing you .............Neil.

I took my watch to the menders this Friday. It’s a valuable Vintage Omega and I was concerned that it was not working properly. The man checked it out and told me that it was functioning correctly and with complete accuracy. I was shocked, so - Walking on the Moon - really WAS 13 minutes long, and an instrumental version at that. I am not sure that the Geordie ex teacher would have approved of this version of his lunar masterpiece, but still, f*!k him eh. Young Alex looked bored playing the same riff for so long and to be honest I thought that George and Mr. Hot were paying tribute to world cup legend Alan Ball, like the human dynamo himself it just kept on going. To be fair to the Rock Gods of Acton central they did give us a fine version of - Sultans of Swing - with some tremendous drumming from someone whose name I did not catch. (My editor will fill the gaps), (I think it was David. Thanks also to another young’un Joel who waited most of the night, without a murmur, to play. Ed). George just sang vocals on this one, which I guess, makes the line - Check out guitar George, he knows all the chords - slightly ironic. I’m sure that had he been wielding his axe he could have made something of that. An open goal missed, something Alan Ball never did.
David H and Sean were both in good humour tonight on stage, Sean telling a rather good joke that I had not heard before and David stopping a song to tell the 2 Guitarists that he was prepared to wait whilst they settled on which key they would be playing in. Priceless.
I know that the next line I write here could be considered (A) boring, or (B) a sure sign of bribery and corruption, but really, Graham once again gave the performance of the evening with - How many more years -. Superbly backed too by Bhavesh on Drums, and Des on Bass, the both of them providing a firm foundation for Gs solid Blues style and for Chester, on Guitar, to show what he can do when he is up for it, (that’s always). The sound effects that he layered over the songs rising fury made it sound like Howlin Wolf and Jimi Hendrix meets Joe Meek. And anyone who suggests thats not a good thing, -- outside now!
Some new faces in tonight and lets hope that they keep coming back. If you read Andys scribblings at the top of the comments page you will see why we have good reason to believe this is the best Jam around these parts. Great sound, committed performers, and variety and humour. What more could you want for less than 3 quid but more than 1.  Look forward to seeing you next week.

Gris Gris Gumbo Ya Ya  - be seeing you. .... Neil.

30 April 2007.

One of those evenings really that you cannot easily explain. It started out quite poorly, as far as audience turnout goes, but still with some good, committed musical performances on stage. Ralph was there early and so found himself playing to a near empty room, with only just twice as many people watching as there were on stage. No let up in attitude, though, as the band gave a full on performance. Quite the most unusual, and yet exciting, version of - If 6 were 9 - (Jimi Hendrix) that I think I have ever heard. Des played Reggae Bass, Chris gave it some stick, Jazz style, and Andy played his usual killer RnB on Guitar, whilst Ralph was just Ralph, fitting in with all 3 styles whilst performing to the Max. To a room of eight people. I should have guessed that if these guys could turn it on now, then it was bound to be interesting later.
And it was. After the young lady in the audience made the not unreasonable request to have the lights lowered, punters started drifting in from the bar next door as well as from down stairs and soon the atmosphere had changed. Nothing particularly special or out of the ordinary happened on stage, but what we saw and heard was a good crowd just having a good time. It was like a party atmosphere and Sean increased that feeling with a very good - No woman, no cry - that went over well with an enthusiastic audience. Graham, showing me magic tricks with a drumstick that looked like Sootys wand, just added to the strange, but warm feeling of it all. (Don’t ask, you had to be there).
Special mentions this week to Alex and Des, the only Bass players all evening, they really worked hard and seeing Des enter the bar area, at one point, sweating profusely, and knocking back a pint, with a smile on his face, showed just how much people were enjoying themselves.
Ranko gave a much admired showing on the drum kit, one of eight Drummers this evening, including Paul who gave a, how shall we say, very inspired performance on the Tambourine, (I think manic may be the word I am looking for here), and of the guitarists, Mat and Dan both gave it their all and went over very well indeed. There was some great tunes knocked out tonight and some of the normal excesses were reigned in.
I would settle for this sort of atmosphere every week and I suppose if there was one lesson learnt, it was,  TURN THOSE LIGHTS OUT, to quote the warden from Dads Army.

Looking forward to next week,
Be seeing you.... Neil.

10 May 2007.

Those who checked in to read last weeks review may have seen the date - 30 April, and not gone any further, (I know of at least one who did this). My apologies. The truth is, Chateau Musar \'98 is a damn fine wine but after 2 bottles, one tends not to know what day it is. Most of you know me as the drummer who nurses 2 pints of Guinness all night, but thats because I am driving. At home I can be found to be doing 1 of 2 things. - (1) Stocking the drinks cabinet or (2) emptying the drinks cabinet. Its a wonder these reviews reach you at all. Still, Cheers, eh.
Due to Graham telling me, last week that he probably could not make it this week, I was rather looking forward to not having to write about him.
10.15 - In walks Graham ----Bugger.
This meant that the house band had to make a concerted effort to keep him off the page, and .......we did.
Its a weird feeling being inside a performance and not knowing how well it is going over. I was stunned when I was approached by several (and some) fellow musicians, after the last song and was told that I just had to write how good we were.  Well, .. I am never one to fly in the face of public opinion. But seriously folks, thanks for the appreciation. OUR TRUE INTENT IS ALL FOR YOUR DELIGHT. I should have known how things were going when Andy started taking 2 solos per song. Sean did what he does best - entertain -, and Rupert and Des were clearly enjoying themselves. I have said it before, the talents out front, I just hit things.
Elsewhere, Harry gave another 5 star performance and Igor surprised a lot of people by playing some great Blues. Some folks told me that they thought he was just an audience member, they didn’t know he could play. Well, know you know. He is the restraint to George’s excess. But does anyone look like they enjoy themselves more than Actons very own behemoth of rock. Way to go, George, keep pumping it out.
Finally, sad news this week, in the press, of the final end of audio cassette tapes. Shops will no longer sell tape machines or tape as the digital revolution finally takes over. Pity. I used to like the compilations given to me friends, introducing me to new music. I know you can still do this on digital but the sheer effort,time, patience and skill involved in making cassette compilations represented the love (of music) with which they were made. C 30, C 60, C90 - Gone.
If you have any stories of tape compilations, tell it to someone else. I\'m busy.  Now wheres that corkscrew.
Be seeing you ...................Neil.

May 2007.

I went to a local restaurant this weekend, and although the food was good, I have to say that the piped music was without a doubt the direst audio experience I have ever had. It was bad enough to spoil anyones night, being much too loud for an eaterie and more to the point, just plain awful. It was one of those mass produced C.D.s that are made for such places and are recorded completely on computer, without a note being played by human hand. Synth Drums, Guitar, Bass you name it, all pre programmed. Not a note out of place and not an ounce of soul, feeling or sense of purpose. Modern classics and showtunes, with a hint of rock and pop. I pity the poor sod that made it but pity more the poorer sods that have to listen to it.
Now, the reason I am mentioning this is that one of the musicians at the Kings Head this Thursday said to me that he had thought it had been a pretty enjoyable evening but littered with some ropey performances. And I think he was right. The point is though, that at least these performances, good or bad, were given by people with a genuine love of music who enjoy playing and are quite prepared to Jam and see what happens. I am always amazed by people who can pick up a musical instrument and play it competently. Put 4 or 5 of these guys on stage, playing different tools of the trade, and listen to them making something worth listening to and I am awestruck. However ropey or ragged the result. And sometimes, you know, the music here reaches sublime levels and it is a genuine thrill to be a part of it, even if it is only watching as an audience member. It is worth remembering, we are keeping it real and although you can not always have a band in a restaurant, lord save us from Numptys with laptops and a book of popular classics.

The Jam WAS enjoyable this week and also strange, in the way that it came across like a charity gig or variety show. So many different styles.
Stand outs were, - Dan and Matt giving us pure Township music, Ralph’s excellent version of Alex Harveys - Snakebite - Boyans stage presence, (funny how he managed to make smoking and playing look cool, just as they are about to ban it. Smoking, not playing), Classical music played in a Serbian folk style, and George, Boyan and Mr.Hot giving us a very lively rendition of - Burn - by Deep Purple. How often do you hear that at Jams?
Mr hot, incidentally was in charge of the drum kit on that last one and made a bloody good job of it. Makes you sick. (Oh, all right, makes ME sick).
Talking of Drummers, Tim performed brilliantly tonight and as one of only 3 Drummers there he had to work hard. His playing seemed to have a bit more finesse about it and I can only presume it was because of the lighter sticks he was using. Rest assured, when he needed to, he gave it some, and he is still our regular Powerhouse drummer.
As well as Mr hot on Drums, we had Jovan (hey, welcome back), on vocals, briefly for - Another Brick in the Wall -. Well, everything else had happened tonight, so why not. George, Hot, Tim and Jovan closed the show and made sure it stayed closed. They blew the P.A. to kingdom come.
Next week, Welcome back my friends, to the show that never ends. Whose up for some Emerson, Lake and Palmer then.

24 May 2007.

First of all, lets say that its good to hear from Alan at the top of this page. Seems like he has been very unlucky with this. I had never heard of this syndrome before he wrote to tell us of his situation and all of us at The Kings Head Jam wish him well and look forward to seeing him in the future. Always a popular player, and a nice chap to boot, it will be great to hear those stones classics ringing out again. Get well soon.
Mind you, if he had turned up this week he would probably have ended up in hospital again, from heat exhaustion. At times it was very uncomfortable and this was reflected in the amount of bare flesh that was on show. Paul, I think we will have to put a screen around the drums, and not for acoustic purposes. At one point, from my position on the drum stool, I could see the sweat literally running off Andy’s forehead like a river, as he was playing. I was constantly having to work my right hand stick back up across the palm of my hand as it kept sliding down on the wetness that had formed there. And they say that it will get hotter yet throughout the year, so it could become unbearable. Having said that, you folks obviously enjoy yourself so much that we just can’t stop you even after end of show. 5 minutes past one, and with everyone packing up, Jovan, George and Chester decided to give us some improv Jazz with Chester on percussion and Jovan giving a demonstration of the Pastorious style. Lads, lads, some of us need some sleep. I have to be up at 5.00. Good stuff though.
George had earlier given us my choice of highlight of the week with - Aint no sunshine - which I thought was restrained and just had some lovely playing from all parties, Des, Igor, and Steve backing him. By the looks of the young ladies dancing they enjoyed it immensely also. We had plenty of dancing again tonight, (good to see), and - Sultans of Swing - went down well with the feet moving fraternity and having finished his vocal part, Matt joined them on the dance floor, straight from the stage. That’s show business.
Peter gave us another crowd pleaser with - I heard it Through the Grapevine- and then pushed his luck by asking if we knew any George Benson, or Justin Timberlake. Mmmmmmmmmmm. Good voice though.
Good performances from Alex (now a true regular) and a very summery looking Des, and once again Chester surprised everyone with a version of - Superstition - that morphed into - Spoonful - backed by Bhavesh, on drums and Jovan, bass. Sometimes, there’s no telling where Chester will go to but it is always top entertainment. He helped the house band close the show later (well, attempt to close the show) with some nice slide guitar on -The Stumble -.
Andy has already mentioned the possibility of allowing free entrance to the ladies and we would welcome some feedback on that. Lets keep these audience numbers up.
Till next week, be seeing you ...........Neil.

message from Alan

Hi all good buddies, as you may have noticed i have not been around for sometime as i have not been too well. I came back from a skiing holiday in France feeling that something was wrong, with pins and needles in my hands and feet and before i knew it i was in hospital.  Things got worse and i could barely walk or use my hands within a few days, then they went and gave me a lumber punch (a spinal tap),which the junior docs were not very good at but they managed to draw some fluid from my spine after and 35 minutes and four attempts.
After that it was deduced that i had this Guillain barre syndrome and would be out of action for sometime. Apparently its so rare i have more chance of a big lottery win, (just my luck).  But now i am on the mend, i have missed jamming with the guys more than anything and have just started to pick up the guitar after something like 9 weeks. I hope the jam night has been going well and i really look forward to seeing you all and getting back on the stage.
alan

31 May 2007.
thought
This Thursdays Jam was, I thought for one moment, going to be one of the most depressing and miserable evenings since I first started coming to the Kings Head. By 10.30 there was only 8 people in the room and 4 of those were on stage! One jammer said he felt that he might pack up and go home. 10.45 and the arrival of Sean filled the room a little more. I am of course referring to the 4 people he brought along and not his considerable bulk. At close to 11.00 I went for a pee and then to get a pint and when I re-entered the music room I I had come through the wrong door. Where did they all come from? It was like a surprise birthday party. It was at this point that the evening took a turn for the better and some good performances were to be seen. That is not to say that there hadn’t been some good performances earlier, in fact I was well pleased to see a high level of commitment on stage, even when playing to an empty room. Graham led the way in this, again, giving it the Max when he surely must have felt like giving it the Min. It counts for a lot and I would pay to see him in any pub, backed by good musicians. Of which we have a few.
Talking of, this weeks highlight just had to be Chester, Stephanos, Jovan and Mr. Rich performing some fine Jazz to a high standard. Well, what would you expect with a line up like that. It was great, (truly great), to see Chris (Mr. Rich) letting loose and swinging powerfully, safe in the knowledge that he had 3 cohorts who could go with him and who fully understood the concept of \"trading fours\". - Kind of Blue - was good, very good but the next number was sensational stuff. If all three cymbals are constantly on the move, like plate spinning, then you know the swing is in full tilt. And, boy, did this number swing. I asked Chester afterwards what it was called and I was sure he said it was - Tailor Madness-. Graham later corrected me to say that it was in fact - Tenor Madness-, an old Sonny Rollins number. Silly me, of course Tailor Madness is the mental condition brought on to bespoke clothing makers when asked to design a suit that would look good on Elton John. My mistake.
Any way, it was great to see this sort of stuff happening before my very eyes even if a couple, or more, of non-jazz fans left the room at this point. Their loss, but ours also, possibly, in the long run. I urge you to read the views of Andy on the comments page regarding this very scenario. It is a good read and thought provoking.
Which brings me to, - Take me to the River -. Rolled out just as the room was swelling nicely, it was a fine performance from Sean with some lowdown, dirty and body moving Bass from the Lead Bassist himself - Jovan. Fresh from a gig in Brixton with Mr. Hot, he was still up for some more. The song went over well and, was of course performed completely spontaneously. We don’t rehearse you know. (Insert picture of Pinocchio’s nose here). Like, I said read Andy’s comments for more opinion on this.
To round up, Other performances of note were Harry and his regular drummer Marton on Hendrix duties and Des looking as confused as I was sometimes with what was going on but still sticking in there.
One performance not to note was the Woody Woodpecker twins, (Bhavesh, and Chris), bashing the F&?k out of the table towards the end of the evening. Andy did mention it from the stage, but they didn’t hear.  They were too busy bashing the F%!k etc, etc.
On to next time, be seeing you, ...........Neil.

7 June 2007.

O.K., absolutely first things first. A big welcome back to Alan for his first visit since his illness. It was good to see him up on stage again and at one point, with his old drumming pal Chris backing him, it looked like he had never been away. Enthusiastic playing from 2 guys who know each others moves very well indeed and I cant remember the last time I said - Thats the best ending to a song I have ever heard - but thats The Kings Head jam for you, always surprises.
Graham said to me later that he thought it had been a quite challenging evening, and for him certainly it was. That is the other side of jammin and one being talked about on the comments page on this very site. Sometimes things will lift off and your flying and its the best feeling in the world. Other times you find yourself in a situation where you’re not all playing from the same songbook. Grahams challenging moment came during a performance of one his best-known songs. He has played it on a number of occasions at The Kings Head and sometimes it has been sublime. Tonight though through nothing more than misunderstanding (no malice, no egos involved), the song struggled to get started and then once its carburetors had settled down and it looked like it had found its rhythm, it was brought to a sudden and unexpected end which took everyone by surprise, and most surprised of all was G, just as he leaned in to the mic to deliver the next verse. Unfortunately, thats jammin and when it happens you have to take it with good grace. And he did. I once brought a song to a close because (A) I was bored and (B) I was fed up with the singer keep coming in at the wrong place. The look and comment he gave me suggested that he wanted to tear off my right arm and beat me with the soggy end. I wont be doing that again.
Another big mention coming up.........Its not just my view but a few other musicians mentioned to me this week just how good Alex has become. I mentioned after his first showing here that he could be one to watch and there’s nothing like being proved right. Himself and Bhavesh seem to be hitting it off but Alex is looking more confident now, whomever he is playing with.
Another of our regular Bass men, Bojan, surprised us all this week by playing some damn good fifties style lead guitar, on - Sleepwalk - and - Albatross -. It totally evoked a moment in time and it just needed the trio (Chris, and Des on rhythm) to wear spangly jackets to complete the picture.
We had some newbie’s in, I hope they enjoyed it, and some excellent vocals by a friend of Ruperts whose name escapes me, giving us some old Rock n Roll, storming versions of - Smoke on the Water - and - Sultans of Swing - from George and Mr Hot, and also a stage invasion by some punters wanting to join Sean on - Heroes -. A failed Mic scuppered their chances of becoming the big guys backing singers, but hey, maybe next time.
That just about wraps it up but I have to mention the true STAR of the evening or I will not be forgiven.  Jovans new Bass amp. If any of you guys managed to avoid being told how good it was by the man himself, let me know where you hid, I may want to join you next time.

Be seeing you ................Neil.

14 June 2007.

Yep, me again. How quickly the weeks go by and I find myself in front of the keyboard trying to make sense of last Thursdays Jam.
No news as yet on our future and I have been asked by a few people, whats happening. No one is really sure how the Kings is going to be developed so we can’t tell you yet. As soon we know, you will know, via this website.
Talking of the website, I do hope that you guys who read this (we will hold a meeting soon, in a phone box), are checking out the other pages. The comments page for instance has some very interesting things going on and if you haven’t checked it before, drop down the page when you do, to catch up on various ramblings and opinion. (Cheers to Alan, by the way for his very complimentary remarks). Also the - Music Matters - section which you can access through the Home page. A very well written piece by Guitar G has just been posted and if you enjoy it, you might want to contribute something yourself. You can do this through the feedback page and help towards the identity of this site by doing so.
If the Jam does end at The Kings Head and we manage to start up somewhere else, we might need to have some House rules, in future. Such as - (1) Nobody, no matter how talented they are or however much they can earn elsewhere should walk off stage, mid song simply because they have lost patience. Temperament and ego should be checked at the door along with your coat. (2) Groups / individuals should not, having played a ten minute version of a Pink Floyd / Led Zeppelin number, then strike up quickly the opening chords of another rock classic just so they can stay on stage a bit longer and prevent the House Band from going on. (A bit specific, this one I know but you lot can be cheeky buggers). (3) Chris Martin should be banned from playing any more drum solos, simply because nobody then wants to follow him. - I’m not going on after THAT - is a popular refrain. (Only kidding, Chris, your Samba beat workout this week was much admired). And (4), Handsome and talented Bass players should be restricted to 1 solo per evening. Yes that’s you, Jovan.
Which reminds me, Jovan, Mr. Hot and Steve gave us another very fine set of East European electric Folk this week. Last time, I called this Serbian, but J has told me that it is in fact Macedonian. So there you go, I am happy to be corrected. So happy to be corrected in fact, that I have a card, from a telephone box, for Correction services from a Miss Suzy Strict. I will let you know if she’s any good.
I was not going to do a highlight of the week this week as I thought it may be getting boring and it is after all just my opinion. But how could I not mention a coruscating, scintillating, feet moving full on electric Blues set by G, Harry, Des and Paul. G, looking like John Lee Hooker, perched on a chair with a big guitar, (I don’t know much about guitars, but I know when the\'re big). Des and Paul were the launching pad, and G and Harry launched. The audience let its feelings known at the end and I guess this was Graham throwing last weeks experience right back at us, and Harry was happy to add weight to his feelings.
A big welcome back to new boy Jack, with his much admired Hofner Bass, lets hope he becomes another regular, his turn with Bhavesh and Ralph was another highlight.
Lets enjoy this while we can, be seeing you, next week at the Kings for another madcap evening of fun, ego and Guitar obliteration. ......Neil. 

21 June 2007.

Lets get right down to business: - The highlight of the week, And of course it just has to be - wait for it, Andy’s shoes. Much commented on throughout the evening, the question had to be: - How much more Rock n Roll could they be? The answer of course is - None more Rock n Roll. Discussion abounded as to whether they were boots, shoes, mock or real. One thing I picked up on though, - they were long. This means that we could nail his toe ends to the floor to keep him on one spot and stop him wandering in to cymbals. Hey, it’s just an idea.
Jack was back again this week and he had another Hofner. In conversation, (well, how else, I’m not telepathic), he told me that he has 9 Hofners and that he will bring a different one each week. Well, by week ten he is going to have start splashing out, we will not settle for anything less than a new one every time! I have a competitive streak in me, so I shall bring a new pair of sticks each session.
Also of note was Alex’s new image. I bet he thought he was going to be the talking point this week and then Andy turned up with those shoes. Cest la vie.
Talking of Alex, it was good to see his entry on - Music Matters -. It is a good read and made me think actually, (doesn’t happen too often), how much music do we dismiss just because it is NOT COOL. A friend of mine once told me - Never let taste be a barrier to musical enjoyment -. I kinda know what he means. If any more of you fancy writing in we could turn this site in to the music magazine that Alan has suggested it might be. Go on, we value your opinions, as long as it is nothing complimentary about Elton John.
My evening was slightly upset by having to spend 30- 40 minutes repairing the snare drum. Broken snare cord, unfortunately. This happened during Joel’s stint at the kit and he was just unlucky. Mind you I think when you are that talented you deserve bad luck to even things out. What a drummer! Luckily Paul was on hand with his Ludwig and once the Premier was repaired, we had 2 snares. And Graham is never one to miss an opportunity. A New Orleans style work out quickly followed with myself and Paul both on drumming duties. Always nice to throw something new in to the mix.
No news on our future as yet, so keep reading this site, but it is encouraging to hear all the good comments we are getting about doing everything to keep it going or start up else where. The Jam sessions and this site can be hard (but enjoyable) work, and it is good to know that you lot still enjoy it.
So, for now, be seeing you, next week, for some more musical mayhem and interesting footwear. ..........Neil.

28 June 2007.

Last night of the Jams?
The truth is, we just don’t know. I have been asked by quite a few people, what’s happening? Well, I wish we knew. - The new leaseholders move in on Weds but there’s no guarantee that Andy will be able to contact them. Will they want to continue with the Jam? Again, we cant guess but it would seem sensible to carry on until they start work on the pub to turn it in to, (I am led to believe), a hotel of some sort. Then again, they might want to start altering the image of the place straight away.
As soon as we know something DEFINITE, we will then post the info on this site. And for those guys whose phone numbers we have I am sure Andy will text you to keep you updated. You just need to check in here for a while, and if you fancy why not add something to the comments page or - Music Matters -. It will at least give us something to read. You can do this through the Feedback section.
Also, of course, there is the POSSIBILITY of the Jam starting afresh elsewhere. Once more, again, we will let you know.
Thursday certainly had the feel of a last night, with a more than good turnout, and the return of some old friends such as Fretless, on Bass, and Kris on drums. We also had Bass player Chris, on keyboard and just for the hell of it a large array of cymbals just to give the boys on drums some fun.
And fun was indeed had. There was a slightly anarchic feel to the evening, most evident when Chris Martin went walk about during a drum solo, whilst still paying the kit, but from the other side! His return to the drum stool was barred by Chester who was now hitting a drum with one hand whilst playing Guitar with the other. It wasn’t particularly musical, for sure, (like Albert Ayler teaming up with the Sex Pistols), but there was a lot of people smiling.
Apart from the more crazy episodes such as above, there was some fine musicianship on show, with Chester well to the fore and receiving much praise for his quite awesome takes on some Howlin Wolf numbers. Then there was our electric folk group, Mr. Hot, Jovan, Igor and Steve, giving us a truly fantastic (unknown) number with a very fast and unusual time signature, and Alan throwing out the best Guitar solo I have heard him play and receiving a very deserved and rousing ovation from the punters. It was quite simply, blistering.
So many here tonight it was difficult to fit you all in or give those who deserved it, a second go. I hope you understand, it was rather chaotic and Andy did very well with the list.
Tim, you played your socks off and I didn’t know it was possible to hit ALL the cymbals on a single run around the kit, - great stuff. Alberto added to our growing list of Bass players and played superbly.
To any one I have not mentioned, I am sorry, but you all contributed to a great evening.
Somebody thanked me for my support over the months, at the end of the evening. Well I have to tell you, you got it wrong. Its the other way round, you lot have supported us and its been our pleasure.
Just have to mention though, the last performance of the night was so typical of what we have come to expect. Graham starts a song, and then Ralph drops out with amp problems and then Des has to stop and swap his bass due to some technical problem. Did the song stop? Hell no. - G and Tim casually kept it going, (so casually in fact, that for one moment whilst facing each other I thought they were having a chat about the coming football season), and then with Ralph and Des back on board the song exploded in to life and led us to a great conclusion. That’s not just the spirit of Jammin, that’s the spirit of Rock n Roll.
Until we re-convene, (and that could be this week for all we know), be seeing you ........Neil.

2 October 2007.
Well, the old debate about Jammin' or giving a band performance still goes on and it was mentioned to me tonight that there are factions beginning to form permanent alliances. Chao, Alex and Stefanos being one, Mr Rich, Darryl and Dave another, and they both perform near perfect Jazz sets. So perfect in fact that after Stefanos and crew finished their superb performance this evening, everyone left the room, probably thinking that it could not be topped. Fortunately for myself, with the stage lights still fully trained on the Drum kit, I can't see out in to the audience area so there could have been two or forty two people out there. You sure notice it when the music stops however, the silence was deafening. There was someone in from The Rose and Crown in Ealing tonight, checking out the talent and I think we passed the audition. It would be nice to think that a few of the regulars that have followed us through thick and thin might be able to get a gig out of it. The Rose is currently looking to broaden their musical perspective and are looking for acts of all kinds, from band to duet to solo. The normal mix of good and bad, tonight, but the vibe remains - all are welcome, it just might be difficult placing some with others. We have some top quality players at The Drayton, and it seems to be not fair to ask them to try and support anyone that can't keep time, plays in the wrong key, alternates the number of bars from verse to verse , forgets the words, comes in at the wrong time and doesn't know how to start or finish. Or all of the above, at once! No names, no pack drill etc, but unfortunately some times you gotta be hard. I know of at least one musician who does not come any more because he was not getting enough playing time. The unfortunate truth, is every song became a marathon because he couldn't end it, despite multiple glances from other players and the audience and at one point I was thinking of bringing in a flag system. Either that or a big hook. Shame was, the guy showed promise and was improving every week. Just a pity he had no brakes. No young Alex on Bass tonight and I cant remember a time that he hasn't been before, since he first joined us. We still had enough four stringers to be going on with, but don't stay away too long my friend, we need people to keep the pressure on Jovan. His Bass solos now start after one verse! Another low ender, Jack, played superbly tonight but I don't think anyone (including himself) is 100% sure about his singing. Makes for an interesting diversion though. A quick mention for Graham, Alan, Jack and Chris and their fine version of - That's all Right Mama - , this really rocked and Chris led them superbly with some fine fast drumming. But the surprise of the evening had to be Ralph, with Zappas - Willy the pimp - . Once again it has to be said, when Ralph clicks, he is top entertainment and this was top drawer Jammin' from Tim, Jovan and Dan as Ralphs messengers. - The thrill has gone - wasn't bad either. New guy Kris, on Bass also deserves a mention as he certainly came across well and was one of those with the misfortune to find himself backing a fellow who is more idiosyncratic than John Lee Hooker. Lets hope he wasn't put off, it would good to see him again. One other chap wanted to perform but had not brought a Guitar with him. It has to be said, unless your a drummer, do bring an instrument. It is not likely that musicians are going to lend their pride and joy to an unknown entity. Sticksmen have a little luxury, drums are supplied, but if Mr Rich keeps going through Bass Drum pedals at the current rate I might run out of 'em. To finish, I just thought I would mention a couple of gigs, that I have been to lately. On Sunday 23 Sep. Our old friends, Des and Paul played at The Six Bells public house in Brentford. Under the name of - The Pat Gregg Band - with Pat and Colin Mackie on guitars/vocals and our Drayton regulars on Bass and Drums respectively. It is a genuinely good feeling seeing guys who have met up at our Jam sessions, getting it together and finding themselves some gigs and in the case of Des and Paul, even more satisfying as they had not been playing at all for some time and are now glad to back on the scene again. They play a crowd pleasing set of mixed favourites and I have seen them twice now and the difference between the two gigs was quite remarkable. They were good first time out but now a genuine tightness is there. Colin and Pat are old hands at this and the rhythm section is now working well together as one. Good versions of some old faves but - Get Ready - (The Temptations) was excellent, and one that you do not here too often at pub gigs. Good on yer lads. Monday 1 October saw Myself, Chris and Alan at The Cadogan Hall, Chelsea to witness the Buddy Rich Tribute concert. Pete Cater was in the drum seat and he had a superb 15 piece band in tow. If you have never seen a full swing band in action you should catch this lot some time. It w


25.09.07
Mother bought a chicken, thought it was a duck, put it on the table with the leg sticking up.......
and the way they talk of the poetry of Tennyson or Wordsworth, I ask yer.

Nothing much to comment on this week, so I wont.
Some top notch Jazz again from Chester, Chris, Jovan and Alan, free form too. Some like it, some dont, I do but I also agree that it is hard to distinguish one free jazz number from another. Great playing though, (Chris went through 2 bass drum pedals!) and yet another Bass solo from the Lord of low end.
Talking of four strings, I hear that the Hofner workers are now on on overtime and bonus, just to keep up with Jacks collecting habit. Has he brought along the same one twice?
House band had a slightly dodgy first set and a storming last set. Pity there was only about eight people left to witness it. Strong guest performances from Gary and Sean on vocals and some great songs to boot.
It was heartening to hear a couple of comments about the The Jam, people saying that they come back because they think its the friendliest and best run of Jams that they have been to. I agree, and there is a definite tendency at some other Jams for the House band members to hog the stage for some considerable time. At one Jam recently myself and Andy wanted a word with the main man about something but we couldnt get to talk to him as he was  always giving it large with the Guitar.
Meanwhile, other six stringers waited in line to play. One of the Drayton regulars , also on a visit, said that he liked the way Andy played at the beginning and end and just filled if neccesary throughout the night. As Mr Punch would say - Thats the way to do it -.
Next week I will add a couple of small reviews of recent gigs I have been to, just to add variety but, for the time being, till next time at the same time, be seeing you. ......Neil

18/09/07

Its good to be back on line, and I hope you have missed me. 
A very good evening at the Drayton last Tuesday,  packed with great playing, good jammin and no small ammount of humour. Another bumper batch of bass players, and a few more drummers this week which left me free to give Andy a break with the list and introduce a new feature. Me up on stage telling you who is coming next. A more unlikely compere I could not imagine. The reason I play drums is because I can sit at the back and remain anonymous. Still, I will give it a go, just dont expect any jokes.

A big welcome back to Chester and straightaway he becomes highlight of the week. A superb Jazz Fusion set with Stefanos on Guitar, chao on Drums and a superb Bass player whose name escapes me. Top line stuff and the first of many Jazz interludes this week.
Graham came up Trumps again with a good all round performance with Alan on some cookin guitar. Alan said afterwards that he enjoyed himself immenseley. I bet he did, this was good jammin and they were superbly aided and abetted by Tim on drums and Jack on yet another Hoffner. I have lost count now.  Tim showed us that there is a lot of drumming talent out there, but lads dont all show up at once, I want a go.
Last weeks surprise Blues soloist got to play with a damm good band this week and the results were, how shall we say, well I said it last week I think. - Different. All are welcome.
I bumped in to Ralph in the toilet this week and he told me that he was gonna try something new. I wasnt sure what to make about that until later when he whipped out his Ukelele. Most surprised was George. I think Barry Davies may have had a phrase for it - Just look at his face -.
G on drums looked fairly bemused also, and after 3 minutes of confusion, the song kicked off as Ralph switched to guitar and a relieved George went in to overdrive.
All very enjoyable and I look forward to this weeks Jam.
I think we all know that the long picture in the new room is Chelsea circa 1967/8, but who can identify the woman in the picture above the basement entrance?

One last thing, - THE PATIO DOORS ARE NOT TO BE USED WHEN JAMMIN IS IN SESSION.This is due to licence restrictions. Thank you, and be seeing you, .........Neil.

11 September 2007.

Personally speaking, this was one of the more enjoyable jams for a long time and, I think, the best so far at The Drayton.
After the refurb the room looks fantastic and more welcoming for both the musicians and non playing punters. It looks like  proper nice club now and I look forward to seeing it full.
There was apparently some confusion as to whether the jam was on or not this week as according to one player the little rolling announcement at the top of the page looked like an advertisement. So he did not read it. He turned up only after contacting another jammer who confirmed that the session was on. Well, we learn from mistakes and next time we will think of something else.
So why did I enjoy it so much? I will tell you and thanks for asking.
Perhaps it had something to do with the fact that me and Chris were the only drummers there, so plenty of playing time for us two. But I really think that the laid back atmosphere of the evening, with volumes lowered and a large smattering of Jazz helped. I am not too old, YET, to give up on full on Rock n Roll but unfortunately this room is not acoustically suited for that.
Some super Jazz was rolled out by Daryll, Chris and ( I think) David on Bass. A tremendous trot through - Cantaloupe Island - which, apart from the missing trumpet, was to my ears better than  Herbie Hancocks. I have always found the original slightly laboured, dragging a bit. If you doubt me, dig out the 1963 take and listen to Tony Williams ride cymbal. He doesnt seem sure he should be playing it. This effort from our 3 Jazzers moved along very nicely indeed.
So, - Cantaloupe Island - and later, - Blue Monk - and - Bright Lights, Big City -. These are class songs and you do not hear them too often at the jams that I have been to. The last 2 mentioned were performed By Graham on accoustic with a mellow backing from Rupert, Des and myself. Grahams set was the most laid back of the evening and showed that theres nothing wrong with laying back. You just retain the passion for the song. I enjoyed myself, and was happy to take instructions from Des. It worked.
Jacks display of Hofners goes on and tonight was the debut of his violin Bass, made famous by Mccartney. Pity we didnt play some Beatles. Jack was one of many Bassists tonight and that meant the 2 drummers got to play with low enders of various styles and sounds.
One of the, ahem, more interesting moments of the evening came from a chap who gave us his solo interpretation of The Blues. I am not saying it was bad, not saying it was good, just saying it was different , is all.
Aand to wrap up I would like to say that I enjoyed also some of the real jammin that took place over the course of the evening. Pure make it up as you go and nothing sounded too wayward or jarring.
In all, - a pleasure. Be seeing you ......Neil
21 August 2007.

Breaking news ~~~~~~ the landlord at The Drayton has announced that he is keen to carry on The Jam and has booked us in till the New Year. He has also cleared us to use our own P.A. if we so wish. So, a chance to see what Professor Jovan has put together. Of course we still need confirmation on when we restart and I am keen to see if there are any changes to the room and the stage, as has been suggested. Lowering the ceiling by 6 feet and half a million egg boxes on the walls would be a good start, but at least for the time being an outward extension of the stage would be good. This week it was odd to see Guitarists hiding behind pillars or walking to the far end of the stage just to be seen.
Good to see more returnees this week, Steve being one of the main attractions for me personally. He re headed the drums and tuned them correctly just before I went on and it was weird having a man with so much talent as my drum tech. A bit like Des o\'Connor being chauffeured by Frank Sinatra.

Cliff was another old friend of The Kings Head Jam, and with Wayne on Drums and Jovan on Bass, they started the refurbishment by stripping the paint off the walls with a blistering Blues set.
Alan somehow managed to get caught up in the wrong band again this evening and left the stage moments after stepping on to it. He must be jinxed. At least I was not to blame this time round and his experiences have led him to call for an awards ceremony (see the comments page). Its not a bad idea, and I think a gong for the most instruments that 1 musician can bring along to The Jams could be interesting. Not so long ago I would have backed Rupert with his superb Guitar collection but Hofner Jack is gonna run him close and just how many snare drums does Tim own? I have a very good selection of tailored jackets but does that count?
Graham thinks that he has found the solution to the sound problem. He told me that it’s quite simple, just play quieter and leave space between the notes. Seems to work for him, but whose gonna tell Bojan. He wouldn’t hear you anyway. Back to the drawing board G.
Before I go, I just have to mention my favourite performance of the evening and although Alan’s - funky thing - instrumental was good anyway, with a flowing sound and great interplay between himself and Chris Martin, I thought it was elevated further by Alex’s performance on the four-string thing. His sound really came through and the whole thing was driven superbly by the rhythm section allowing Alan to do what he does best, - entertain.
Dan’s guitar solo on this number was also exceptional, showing that he can still prick up our ears when he plays at normal levels. Now we just have to convince George.

O.K., here’s to the rest of the year, be seeing you, shortly...........Neil.

Tue 14 August 2007.

As this is titled the news page, I suppose better have some news. You may have already seen on the front page that The Jam is on for next week,  21 August. They tried to make us go to refurb, but we said No, No , No.   As Mr. F has stated, they do have a planned re opening of the 7th September but look what happened to Wembley Stadium. Lets make it a good one next week as we might not see each other again for years.
I was going to do a - missing in action notice - last week but forgot, and as it happened one of our lost soldiers turned up. A big HELLO to Tim. Thought we had lost you. No sign of Chester though, and last I heard he was performing some free jazz set somewhere. That way madness lies, and it may be too late to save him. Also, what ever happened to the guy with the bongos who occasionally pitched up at The Kings Head? You know the man, - funny hat, strange far away look. Always placed his drums at the edge of the stage and just left them there without ever actually playing. Characters like this don’t come around to often and if he is with us then at least we can keep an eye on him. Wonder where he's not playing now.
One face from the past did make a comeback last week, though. - Steve, a very talented young drummer I am sure you will agree. Graham said to me that the first and last time he saw this fellow at The Kings (shows you how long ago, G is one of our absolute regulars) he was playing Bass. I am sure he was, and the week before that it was the 6 string electric, and if he kept coming it would probably be the accordion and then the bagpipes. Some people just have it in spades.
Sound is still not great and there have been comments.