Use this page for getting excited about a gig, pleading for spare tickets, arranging a pub meet, getting a lift, and whatever else comes to mind. For any gig.
Use this page for getting excited about a gig, pleading for spare tickets, arranging a pub meet, getting a lift, and whatever else comes to mind. For any gig.
Chris The Siteowner
Cambridge 23 24 March: a small and imperfectly formed bunch will be getting together beforehand at The Earl of Derby, between the station and the venue, then moving on to The Junction whenever. You should catch us if you’re there between 7 and 7.30, for sure.
23 March 2010
John Anderson
I won’t be there on March 23rd Chris, but will definitely be popping in for a couple of jars before the gig the following night.
23 March 2010
Chris The Siteowner
Thank you John…
23 March 2010
Richard Parker
I’ll be there, I’m coming straight from work so will have some time to kill beforehand. Got to drive, so no ale for me unfortunately, anybody know what parking is like round the area?
See you there
23 March 2010
Chris The Siteowner
The Junction is on a new “Leisure Park” development, accessible by car only from Cherry Hinton Road. The huge multicoloured Travelodge is the clue you’re close. When you turn onto the Leisure Park estate, take the first left, if you don’t mind paying, for a big multistorey NCP right next to the venue. Or carry straight on to an industrial estate area for loads of free on-street parking.
24 March 2010
dagenham dave
Currently in Nandos opposite The Junction and guess who has just walked past the window, yep Nigel. Did consider saying something but it kind of took me by surprise!
24 March 2010
dagenham dave
Good to meet you Chris as well as Mel, Mr and Mrs Exford and others.
25 March 2010
Jez
I’ve just phoned the Shrewsbury theatre to find out the time the band will be on stage. They’ve advised they haven’t been informed of a support, so to turn up at the advertised performance time of 7.30pm.
25 March 2010
Richard Parker
Typical, ran late at work, missed the pre-gig pub, got to the junction about 8:15 though, so didn’t miss anything, cracking gig, and thanks for the directions Chris, much appreciated. Hopefully see you next time.
25 March 2010
John Anderson
Good to meet you Chris (and was it Dave?) in the pub. Also spotted Nigel walking up Hills Road as we reached the Earl of Derby.
25 March 2010
s.g.d A Shropshire Lad
Geoff said that there would only be a support if the theatre had organised one.So it will probably be an early kick-off.
Apparently Calvin Party have split up.
25 March 2010
Greasby Shark
Pissed off now!
Won’t be home for another 20 minutes or so (on the train now) and even if I rush I can’t get an earlier train to Shrewsbury than the one that gets in at 8.25 pm.
Looks like I’ll be missing a good portion of the show then.
25 March 2010
s.g.d A Shropshire Lad
It was about 8.50 before they came on stage last night and that was supposed to start at 8.30. have faith.
do you know the way from the station?
25 March 2010
Greasby Shark
Thanks s.g.d.
Just spoken to Geoff. The venue has been trying to get them on as early as possible, but they’ve managed to negotiate an 8.30 pm start (although Geoff did warn me that it may be a few minutes before 8.30 pm).
Fortunately, I was able to get home, get changed, throw some food and booze in a bag and get out again all in the space of 8 minutes, so I have made the earlier train.
I know that the venue is near the Welsh Bridge and, if my memory serves me right, that’s the bridge that isn’t the one by Gay Meadow (R.I.P.) and I just need to go straight ahead when I leave the station and follow the river to the bridge?
25 March 2010
Biscuitface
I’m going to the Preston gig in October and have got a ticket for the Mrs.
Do any women go to HMHB gigs or is she going to feel out of place?
20 June 2010
Ben
@Biscuitface
Plenty of women, plenty of ages. Come one come all (even try and guess the aliens weight sir)
20 June 2010
Biscuitface
Cheers Ben
She’s about 10 stone I’d guess!!
20 June 2010
BrumBiscuit
I went to buy my Bilston gig tickets from The Robin2 yesterday. On the way I called in at the excellent Olde White Rose in Lichfield St. about 2 mins from both the venue & the Metro station.
Steve, the manager (who is most definitely not a HMHB fan), agreed to give 10p a pint discount to anyone wearing a DPAK. This might only apply to the first pint, but it’s worth trying…
They do a good carvery for £4 and other decent food & the beer is excellent, so the perfect pre-gig watering hole.
See you there…
4 August 2010
steam engine
great idea……i hope a Preston bar manager does something similar (tho 10 pints for a bongo could be fatal!)….
7 August 2010
argieuk
Anyone heading to Durham on the 25th of November? Think the Head of Steam might be a decent pre-gig choice for a pub, unless anyone knows otherwise- it is just across from the venue.
2 September 2010
Charles Exford
Good shout if it’s like their pubs in Toon or Huddersfield, less so if it’s like their rather anonymous waiting room on Lime Street. I’ll be there anyway.
And good shout for the Olde White Rose in Bilston too Brumbiscuit – that does sound like a decent beer selection. I’ve never been that tempted by the Bilston gigs till now but I want to do some walking in & the Welsh Marches & Salop while the weather’s half decent so I’m gonna do Bilston on the way back, with a very handy 23.36 train afterwards
I hope you mean we get the mind-blowing 10p discount in a DPAS though – I’m always loath to strip down to the full DPAK until about to mosh.
2 September 2010
Germ
Great to know they’re playing in Durham.
Looks like I’ll be able to get to this gig….my first ever HMHB gig at the tender age of 45!
2 September 2010
BrumBiscuit
Having walked down Bilston High Street a few weeks ago, I’d say The Olde White Rose is the only place to go there. Having said that, the last two times I’ve been to the Robin2, the pub was full of DPAK-wearing fans, so it’s no secret gig venue.
Exxo, happy to share some info about Shropshire (Bishops Castle, etc.) with you before the gig. Can even lend you some OS maps… I’ll be wearing a Dukla Prague shirt.
Ah, look out for the Dickie Davies Eyes black hoodie then.
Having done Leamington and Cambridge earlier in the year, this’ll be my last 2010 gig, sadly
9 September 2010
Charles Exford
Thanks Brumbiscuit, but the walk will start this Saturday in the Black Mountains, incl. Three Cocks & LHK of course, up Offa’s Dyke to Salop (Knighton, Clun, Bishop’s Castle), then I’ll travel up to the gig on Wednesday from the likes of Church Stretton station or wherever I’ve got to. Hope to see you in the Olde White Rose – I’ll be the one with the large red backpack!
9 September 2010
BrumBiscuit
OK, I hope the rain keeps off for you. Brilliant route.
Have a pint in the Three Tuns in Bishops Castle for me. I’ll look out for the backpack!
9 September 2010
Martin
Just reserved tickets for Wednesday. Ooooh yes!
It’s going to be one of these fine nights, can’t wait!
10 September 2010
king tubbs
Looking forward to tomorrow – quite like Bilston.. but are there any decent pubs in Preston? I’ve looked in the Good Beer Guide and it doesn’t look promising..
14 September 2010
Third Rate Les
The Good Beer Guide?
Do you have a Bonneville in bits too?
Not been out in Preston for about 20 years, mind you, so probably best not to recommend anywhere.
14 September 2010
BrumBiscuit
Anything less than 5%, I don’t want to know…
14 September 2010
steam engine
Preston has a fine Wetherspoons amongst other fine pubs. My itinerary will include a visit to The Plough in Churchtown and a glass of Mackeson’s stout with Hilda Ogden. A great night to everyone tomorrow.
14 September 2010
king tubbs
Ooh, Mackies..!
15 September 2010
MysticMeg
The Bilston gig will be amazing, and Graham Nash will make a personal appearance to ensure his Sobers’ infamy is not mocked again.
Someone called Martha will find her loved one tonight by the gents’ lavs.
Neil will plug his guitar in properly.
NB57 will have painted his caravan guitar in a mildly shocking cerise.
The Ballad of Climie Fisher will, at long last, get the public airing that has been clamoured for for so long.
The last Metro back to Brum will run over a hedgehog at the St Paul’s stop, so please do bear reverence.
15 September 2010
Peter Gandy
Graham Nash or Malcolm?
Sorry for being such an arse. If I was in CSNY I’d be Stephen Stills.
15 September 2010
Nick
For your pre- gig pint try
The Bitter Suite
53 Fylde Road, Preston, PR1 2XQ.
Immediately opposite 53 degrees go down the alley to the left of the Mad Ferret, by the big Martial Art Centre sign.
The beer in the venue is awful!
26 September 2010
Charles Exford
Nice one Nick, we’d already picked that one out for our post-match, pre-gig CAMRA-work (we have joint membership – sickening, I know). The place doesn’t open till 7pm on a Sunday, but that suits us as we’ll be in L’pool for the match that afternon, my lads v. Mrs. Exford’s lot. Dunno about anyone else but for me it’s the first ever opportunity ever to see my team and the Biscuits play on the same day !
(The “Bitter Suite” could be a very apt name if my team don’t win, ‘cos a sort of accumulator betting against the hapless chumps over their last 3 games, and then rolling over most of the winnings onto this one, could mean quite a substantial earner. I should think any Preston fans around will be bitter about Mrs. Exford’s Blackpudlian gloating in that case too)
26 September 2010
Nick
Well if you have time before 7 try the Black Horse on Friargate opposite the entrance to the St. Georges Centre, and then stumble down to the Old Black Bull (opposite the aforementioned dreaded Wetherspoons) both do great real ales. I am in danger of making Preston sound like a hot bed of real ale hostelries – which believe me it aint. If you visit these two you have probably done the best pubs in the city – and barely walked 50 yards.
27 September 2010
Greasby Shark
Anyone need a ticket for Sunday?
I’ve got a job on in Grays (Essex) on Monday morning and need to be bright eyed and bushy tailed (which I won’t be if I’ve had to drive down from Preston through the night).
Gutted to miss Preston, but have already been to 3 shows so far this year (Leamington Spa, Shrewsbury and Bilston) and will be at Holmfirth, so I shouldn’t complain really.
I’m only after £15, including postage. A snip at half the price.
27 September 2010
Charles Exford
HMHB on stage 8.30 pm.
Thanks for the tip off on hmhb.co.uk !!
29 September 2010
steam engine
DPA tops at the ready…….and the wonderful X2 bus tomorrow.
2 October 2010
steam engine
Has our evening of swing been cancelled?
3 October 2010
king tubbs
Uh-oh – “Tonight’s Preston gig is ’90% off’ – Nigel has laryngitis. I’m afraid I won’t be able to update further as I’m off to Portugal early this morning. Could try phoning Geoff or the venue for updates… “
3 October 2010
king tubbs
Nothing on the website at the mo – looks like it’s a rainy night wandering the streets of Preston…
3 October 2010
Charles Exford
Prest-off. Evening of Swing postponed rather than cancelled, whole caboodle put off rather than called off. DPAK removed & folded away. Will we ever go to a match and HMHB gig on the same day?
By a sequence of sod’s laws, Blackpool are now guaranteed to win this avvy, thus putting us in Cuba or somewhere sunny with our winnings for the re-arranged date.
3 October 2010
king tubbs
Is it deffo cancelled? I’m still hanging in for that 10%
3 October 2010
s.g.d A Shropshire Lad
new date 12th November on 53degrees website
3 October 2010
Chris The Siteowner
Looks like Cuba’s the new destination Charles!
3 October 2010
steam engine
oh dear Mr Exford!….
3 October 2010
Dave The Mime
cancelled due to Laryngitis… bloody cop-out, If I had laryngitis, I would still do my job…
Who’s the gobshite now eh? eh?
3 October 2010
Charles Exford
Like the match and the result, it seemed kind of pre-destined that rather than the gig in Prestoff, we spent a wistful evening in B’pool looking at her dad’s photos of her grandad’s football career, amongst them old black and white photos of tours with Stanley Matthews in Eastern Europe and South America in the 60s. Yes he even had a Dukla Prague pin badge in his collection.
As I’ve mentioned before, Mrs. Exford’s grandad would never have even moved to Blackpool if it wasn’t for a converstion between Matthews and Mortensen when it all went tits up at Port Vale in 1967/68, so to say she owes her very existence to Blackpool FC is no exaggeration. She and her family were more than a bit chuffed last night and my insurance cover, rolling over the winnings from the Northampton match, softened the blow for me.
So Cuba here we come, avoiding 12th November (and avoiding the bloody resorts like the plague) of course. The ability to objective about your own team’s chances is a terrible curse I tells yer.
4 October 2010
MickeyMo
I think Nick is being a little unfair on Preston as far as real ale goes. The two best pubs in my opinion are the aforementioned Bitter Suite, where Paula keeps her ales in excellent nick, and The Continental down Broadgate, where the house beer is brewed by Marble Brewery, and is so good that I often drink it all night without trying the guests!
I know Wetherspoons gets knocked but as a CAMRA man I can’t understand why. The Preston one has at least 8 beers on and they are kept well and very reasonably priced. I used to go in The Old Black Bull but the beer in there seemed to go down in quality and the last straw was when I took back a pint that was obviously off and they refused to change it. The Black Horse is ok if you like Robinsons and The Market Tavern usually has some good stuff on – it can be worth a visit just to see some of the clientele.
The Fox and Grapes on Fox Street does a good selection as does TheStanley Arms on Lancaster Road, which also plays excellent Northern Soul stuff and the two pubs near the station (Station and Old Vic) both do real ale.
Preston is far from a real ale desert! I hadn’t realised the gig was off until we got there so managed a couple of excellent pints in Bitter Suite. Unfortunately I’m at The Levellers in Kendal on 12 Nov and had I not been I would have already bought tickets for Edwyn Collins the same night – also at 53 Degrees. Not sure who will be upstairs in the smaller venue on 12 Nov.
Happy drinking!
5 October 2010
Hedley Verity
The Boardwalk have announced a gig on 17th February 2011, cue the Rotherham postie.
9 October 2010
king tubbs
Any news whether the throat’s better? I’ve gone and booked the travel lodge again and I’d hate to be starneded there again..
4 November 2010
Charles “The Count” Exford
We’ll be in the Bitter Suite from at least 7 till 8 pm. Band onstage 8.30pm as scheduled last time.
With an interesting symmetry, instead of the original schedule of going to the gig direct from watching Liverpool FC v. Blackpool FC, we’ll be heading to AFC Blackpool v. AFC Liverpool in the FA Vase the next day !
11 November 2010
Simon Smith
I`ll be the one with the Movember `tache reminiscent of S. Blackwell circa 1990/1. Come say `Hi` ..and then bugger orf!
Mad hair and genius sibling not provided.
12 November 2010
steam engine
top gig tonight……good moshpit …..we all await the Roger Green report…..nigel does Cher!
13 November 2010
Germ
I only live about 10 or 15 miles from Durham but not visited in over 15 years so I’m unfamiliar with the watering holes. Anyone got any suggestions for a good real ale (or failing that at least Pedigree on tap) within staggering distance of the gig?
14 November 2010
Charles Exford
The Head of Steam has been suggested, opposite the venue. Don’t know it, but I certainly like the ones from the same mini-chain in Newcastle & Huddersfield.
14 November 2010
Vendor of Quack Nostrums
If you put the address, 15 North Road Durham DH1 4SH into Google maps and drop the little orange chap onto North Road, a quick virtual stroll will soon locate a boarded up venue called ‘Walkabout – Australian Bar’. (as additional information to entice you in it boasts to be ‘the awesome spirit of Australia’. Not that awesome obviously as it closed down some time ago). However, this has now been reborn as the Live Lounge. I’ve never been inside the place in any of its regenerations so I can’t comment on its charms, but it is handily placed for both the bus and train stations.
Once you become bored of staring at the venue, if you virtually rotate 180 degrees you’ll spot a ginnel, alleyway, snicket, or passageway – depending on your place of origin. Down here is the aforementioned Head of Steam. Further details available at;
http://www.theheadofsteam.co.uk/durham-location-and-about-us/
There is also a Wetherspoons further up the street, next to a Poundstore and opposite a Tesco Express. No shooting people on the way to the gig please, just to watch them die.
15 November 2010
argieuk
Got tickets today- and will be heading for the Head of Steam for a beer or two beforehand …as I bought the tickets- Nirvana’s version of ‘in the pines’ was playing…with PBR of ‘…and his body has never been found’.
18 November 2010
Germ
Finally got my ticket today…..Head of Steam and then my first HMHB gig.
Look for the big,bearded guy with the Devo gig shirt on
20 November 2010
Vendor of Quack Nostrums
Are we not men?
20 November 2010
gNick
Head of Steam is the ONLY pub I would use on North Road in Durham. Alternative, for those who like a range of nice real ales (not sure if they have a barman called Dave though), is the Elm Tree which is up steep cobbled street next to the Tesco TooSmallToBeOfAnyRealUse. I will be there, there or maybe in another pub altogether, wearing an Editor’s Recommendation T-shirt.
24 November 2010
argieuk
The support appears to be ‘Mother Firefly’- described as “Original band from the Gateshead area of the north east, influenced musically by the likes of Foo Fighters, Qotsa, Nirvana, Feeder, Stereophonics melodically by The Beatles, Oasis and atmosphericly by My Vitriol, Eighties Matchbox, Cooper Temple Clause etc etc”
Think might spend longer in the Head of Steam then……
24 November 2010
Germ
With all those influences there won’t be a single purist left unirked.
24 November 2010
argieuk
Think using the word ‘original’- then listing 10 bands (with an etc etc) a little odd. Possibly the promoter’s band- so perhaps forgiven.
24 November 2010
gNick
Elm Tree definitely before the gig.
Looking at Mother Firefly’s Facebook page maybe we should find them in a Camden boozer…
24 November 2010
Germ
Put your wellies and Barbours on….Just looked out the window and we’ve got about 6 inches of snow and I’m about 10 – 12 miles from Durham city.
25 November 2010
Charles Exford
I think it does need emphasising that HMHB have no say in choosing these support bands. It’s a promoter thing.
Looks like I’ll be missing tonight’s rites as Mrs.E’s poorly & transport without her is problematic.
25 November 2010
Argieuk
Aye, getting a little nervy about the gig happening- Colleague took a few hours to get through Durham this morning.
25 November 2010
Argieuk
and there’s little in the way of sunshine….
25 November 2010
gNick
Actually we have got got a little bit of sunshine up in the Tyne valley at the moment, albeit between blizzards…
25 November 2010
John Kettley
What are you all moaning about, there’s plenty in the way of sunshine over here in Johannesburg – just ask Nigel to switch venues so us ex-pats can go to a gig!
Ô¿Ô
25 November 2010
Kitch
I’m going tonight and have a spare ticket. I’ll be in the Head of steam from about 7.30 onwards. I’ll have a red scarf on. Stop me and buy one!
25 November 2010
gNick
Latest from venue, gig is on, though whether the band are there or they are stuck in a snowdrift I din’t ask.
Doors open 7.30, support on 8.30. HMHB on 8.45-9.00
25 November 2010
Charles Exford
Yeah, I had a nice chat with Debbie at the venue too. Doubtless the band will be at Beamish museum this avvy or some such attraction. All this ‘cos Maud now claims she said “nothing a few painkillers can’t handle” rather than “they don’t make painkillers that can handle this”. Attagirl ! We won’t be fit for much mosh though.
25 November 2010
Germ
Mrs Exford sounds like a good ‘un ,does she stamp her foot like Talula Gosh or would that just be clichéd this close to christmas?
25 November 2010
Thomas
I’m looking forward to my first hmhb gig @ The Picturedrome this Thursday. Just hope the weather holds out and the (expected) snow is kept at bay until Friday. I can recommend “The Nook” for a pre gig pint…
If you’re going, I’ll see you there…
14 December 2010
Charles Exford
Tell you what, pemmican has been a total bastard to find on ebay so I’m not that arsed if it snows or not now.
And if the road gritters have got to work, Huddersfield’s after-gig bus connections are so uncommonly ample that I’m prepared to spare their entire town from the due vengeance following tonight’s Dulux Familiar Cup exit. When did you ever hear of leaving a gig in plenty of time to get the third last bus to the station for the second last train ?
But if it snows and they on haven’t clocked on, I unleash seven shades of hell. And phone a taxi.
15 December 2010
Ronnie B
Email from venue:
WEATHER UPDATE
EVENT: HALF MAN HALF BISCUIT
DATE: THURSDAY 16th DECEMBER
Currently the gig is going ahead, but please CHECK OUR HOMEPAGE before travelling – all information will be updated there.
Also, people who don’t already have tickets (delivered to you), please collect on the door as requested.
Many thanks,
Picturedrome management
Please contact us for further information: http://www.picturedrome.net
16 December 2010
Diggler
My earlier mail to the venue enquiring about tonights showtimes came back with the response:
“main acts normally on stage around 9pm, however best keep an eye on the website…just in case”
Looking out of my office window in Manchester City Centre and keeping my fingers crossed. How can a man with his first HMHB gig in possibly 5 hours be expected to concentrate?
16 December 2010
KEV THE CAP
How much were the Pringles tonight?
16 December 2010
FCUM All
They didn’t play 24 hour garage people last night which was a bit of a surprise.
17 December 2010
Charles Exford
Sheffield Feb 17th gig capacity has been trebled overnight, by switching it to The Plug.
The Boardwalk, though it possibly holds the record for most HMHB gigs, hasn’t been big enough really and always used to sell out quicker than anywhere, so it has to be good news for Biscuiteers everywhere. Not least if you want to let a couple more paydays go by before buying your tickets.
18 December 2010
Argieuk
So what is the pub of choice for Sheffield?
7 February 2011
IggyM
Late notice I know, but I’ll be in the Washington, 79 Fitzwilliam Street S1 4JP if anyone fancies a pre-gig meet. I also have a spare ticket (mate has blown it out) for less than cost price if interested. Email Ian@bongofury.co.uk.
16 February 2011
Toerag
Gig being advertised at O2 Shepherd’s Bush, London on Friday June 17th!
http://www.o2shepherdsbushempire.co.uk/Info
24 February 2011
Chris The Siteowner
Indeed it is. One imagines it’s a grubby little ploy to get the band covered by the London-based media just as they release a new album. How could they be so cynical and calculating?
Tickets on sale on Monday.
24 February 2011
Charles Exford
Yes isn’t it typical of HMHB’s relentless PR machine that within a few hours of U2 announcing their Glastonbury headlining set, their fiercest rivals have to trump them by revealing _the_ gig of the summer ? The Edge has never been in less doubt about where he could stick his erstwhile “buy-on” offer.
In a few years people will doubtless be saying this summer’s HMHB vs.U2 race for number one album was the moment that defined the musical decade. Personally, I reckon it’s just a joint marketing conspiracy.
And one thing’s for sure, if they both get bad backs again, I know who my money’s on to just take a couple of painkillers and get on with it.
25 February 2011
Mr Larrington
I am this: cross. Due to a ungetoutofable prior engagement I shall be unable to attend this. Nor will I be able to see Amplifier a couple of days before.
Bah!
25 February 2011
Gregg Z
Those of us with young children know how challenging it can be to apply the firm hand of discipline when needed. I’ve discovered that my kids (ages 4 and 2, Biscuit-lovers both) love to wander from their seats at the dinner table, but respond well to the phrase: “Get back in your technical area”.
25 February 2011
Gregg Z
Oh, I remembered why I stuck this bit in the “pre-gig banter” column..
If only I could find my way to London in June. Just so happens the two best bands in your nation are gigging on subsequent nights– HMHB 17th June in the capital and the Monochrome Set the next evening in Bristol.
Would gleefully donate all remaining (functional) organs for this trip.
Although, now I think of it, I would be willing to stay an extra fortnight through the end of June, in order to attend the annual sword dance on the 27th.
25 February 2011
Paul F
Sold out while I was on the bog!
28 February 2011
John Burscough
Head for the wardrobe…
28 February 2011
Paul F
Not necessary thankfully – found some later on another site.
1 March 2011
FAC 285
Hello all. I have only recently discovered the genius that is HMHB. I can’t believe what I’ve missed out on for so long, but and am well up for the London gig in June.
However I am only familiar with two HMHB albums – Back In the DHSS, and This Leaden Pall. If you were to recommend a further 3 HMHB albums that I should get prior to the gig in order to maximise my recognition of the most number of songs on the night, which three would they be…?? (or is there a new album on the way ?)
7 March 2011
Neil G
FAC 285 I would recommend Four Lads Who Shook The Wirral, Cammell Laird Social Club and Achtung Bono, although you should get them all, including the EPs. You could download the Peel Sessions stuff for nothing (the link to it is on the home page here). Enjoy the gig.
8 March 2011
Gregg Z
FAC 285, I would recommend to start with “Achtung Bono”, “Cammell Laird Social Club”, “CSI: Ambleside”, and “Editor’s Recommendation” (EP). The group has produced their best stuff in the last decade, so you can’t go wrong with any of those. Sounds like the new stuff (link to recent Marc Riley radio sessions) continues to be of the highest quality, as well.
Have fun.
8 March 2011
BrumBiscuit
All good suggestions, but can I suggest that if you’re on Spotify that you have a listen there before buying? I’ve got all the CDs, but I still use Spotify and compile an HMHB playlist with all my favourite tracks. I don’t know if you can still get a free subscription on Spotify, but it’s a great way to try before you buy. The usual disclaimers apply…
The new album will be out before christmas 2010. Well, that was one quote I heard somewhere. At the risk of incurring the collective wrath, Some Call it Godcore is one of their weaker albums.
8 March 2011
Paul F
Trouble Over Bridgewater for me.
8 March 2011
Paul F
And may I be the first person to accuse FAC 285 of talking gobbledygook?
8 March 2011
Vendor of Quack Nostrums
FAC 285, download the Peel stuff, it’s a great place to start and just hearing John’s ramblings is worth it alone.
However, don’t leave it too long before you are ordering the CDs from Geoff at Probeplus.
http://www.probeplus-store.co.uk/
Some folks do have a living to earn!
For what it’s worth I’d start with Cammell Laird, Bono and CSI. (with Editor’s Recommendations as the bonus EP)
8 March 2011
Charles Exford
FAC 285 (intriguing – but may we call you Wendy?) – it’s hard to predict, since the beauty of following this band is that there’s a near 50% turnover of songs from one gig to the next. But I’ve just had a look at the set lists of the last three gigs (as recorded by the doughty Roger Green on hmhb.co.uk). So to answer your question (and don’t worry, I’ve been meaning to do something like this for a while), the CDs which would have helped you most are:
- The last album CSI Ambleside (2008) has had 13 plays including 6 different songs, 3 of them ever-present in each of the 3 squads;
- The penultimate one Achtung Bono (2005) has had 12 plays including 6 different songs, 3 of them again doing the hat-trick;
- Then if you take all the 1985-86 stuff including Back in the DHSS together, that has had about 14 plays, encompassing about 9 different songs.
Those 3 come in substantially ahead of the other albums on the set lists recently, but if you were to lump together the Editor’s Recommendation and Saucy Haulage Ballads EPs together as one album, then they would actually be, sort of, in 4th place. And if you had all the recordings I’ve mentioned so far, you’d only have a third of the opus, but you’d have about 57% of the songs played at the last 3 gigs. Most of the relevant tracks from the EPs are there in the Peel sessions.
It’s a fair guess that the London gig will see a good few tracks from the forthcoming album, and if I wasn’t a betting man I wouldn’t say it’ll probably be out by then.
As far as I can see only one album, Some Call it Godcore, has had none of its songs included in the first team squad recently.
You’ll get about 28½ HMHB songs on any given set list, plus more often than not a cover if you’re lucky. Incredible value even at London prices I’m sure you’ll find. About 48 different songs were played in total at those last 3 gigs, about 53 in the last 4 and about 56 in the last 6 gigs shows you how that particular curve flattens out (my esteemed colleagues will doubtless sigh with relief that I can’t actually draw any graphs on here).
Note that shouting out for particular songs is futile, unless possibly you are prepared to keep it up for about 6 years and you loudly profess support for a club that has at some stage been managed by Ronnie Moore. One exception may be the odd false start to The Ballad of Climie Fisher if it is shouted for at a moment when Ken is fumbling with his tuner and Nigel is glad of something to fill a minute or so.
(By the way Vendor, do feel free to re-write all this with it with the whole squad rotation metaphor, frequent transfer windows between gigs, NB57 as the Tinkerman who stubbornly ignores the supporters’ wishes with his strategies and his tactics, sending on his big foreign signings as cover deep in injury time, etc.)
8 March 2011
Neil G
Very interesting post there, Charles. I wonder if you could do us all a favour and type out those set lists.
8 March 2011
FAC 285
cheers for all the responses, especially the very detailed one from Exxo, much appreciated. As a result have since discovered Spotify which is proving a useful means of sampling the different albums. Will put an order in soon for some of those mentioned above, promise…
yours,
gobbledygook.
13 March 2011
EzekialpunchedDanBrown
So…Edinburgh and Kendal on consecutive nights, June 30 and July 1?
Is this a first does anyone know?
Also, is this a clue about album release or just the usual contrary behaviour that we know and love?
22 March 2011
Charles Exford
(i) No. The marathon West Country scrumpycore tour of 5th-6th August 2009 springs immediately to mind. After that particular well-publicised episode of extreme burn-out, the people of the far north will feel truly privileged that the lads are already back pounding the gruelling circuit this summer.
(ii) Yes. Rumours are rife that with any luck a new platter will be available from K-Tel by the time the June gigs come around. Let’s start a sweep on what colour it’ll be.
22 March 2011
Mr Larrington
Cambridge/Shrewsbury last year, Aberdeen/Glasgow in 2009, Norwich/Leicester in 2008…
23 March 2011
BrumBiscuit
Very, very pre-gig banter, but it’s just been announced (at least I’ve only just heard) that they’re doing a gig in The Assembly in Leamington on 15/9. A year to the day since Dean Friedman’s appearance in Bilston!
Yahey! A gig less than 2 miles from home!
24 March 2011
Third Rate Les
I reckon the Assembly is an absolutely top-notch venue, and indeed it has all sorts of hidden secrets; a top authority told me Tammy Wynette’s winnebago is, for whatever reason, hidden in its backstage area.
Yahey indeed. A gig less than 150 miles from home! That’s a home fixture.
24 March 2011
BrumBiscuit
It’s a good venue, all right, but the last 2 gigs there never really got going for me. There is a new Wetherspoons about 2 mins walk away, so I shall be heading there before and “getting prepared”.
Roll on Leicester…
25 March 2011
John Burscough
This would seem to confirm the venue’s claim to have Tammy Wynette’s Winnebago backstage, as well as a Gatling gun (Gatling gun?).
Perhaps “You’re going on after Crispy Ambulance” could for one night be replaced by “Tammy Wynette’s pink gypsy caravan”.
25 March 2011
MISTER TUBBS
Don’t know if this has already been announced, but according to see tickets, there’s also a gig in Cardiff at the Millenium music hall on 25th august. They did a terrific show in a disused church in cardiff a few years back.
11 April 2011
TWO FAT FEET
Obviously not as ‘disused’ as it claimed to be.
11 April 2011
Richard Lovell
Beer or encore, which is it to be?
The last train out of town is always before the end of the gig. Missed Dean Friedman last year whilst I was on the bus out of Bilston.
This time I’d like to stay til the end but preferably under the affluence of incahol, so is anyone driving back to Birmingham from the Leicester gig and could offer me a lift? Happy to share fuel costs.
19 April 2011
Chris
Just some useless information- Edinburgh’s Liquid Room burnt down about a week after the last Half Man Half Biscuit gig (October 2008- during the Sensational Alex Harvey Band). It’s rebuilt in the same style but a bit more spacious and a bit more shiny. Still got the poor sod with the worst job in the world trying to sell you soap in the toilets.
20 April 2011
Chris
Just some useless information- Edinburgh’s Liquid Room burnt down about a week after the last Half Man Half Biscuit gig (October 2008- during the Sensational Alex Harvey Band). It’s rebuilt in the same style but a bit more spacious and a bit more shiny. Still got the poor sod with the worst job in the world trying to sell you soap in the toilets.
20 April 2011
BrumBiscuit
@ Mister Tubbs: Yes, The Point gig was excellent. The Welsh National Anthem on St David’s Day was a great touch: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VdOJziRZXIM
The Point has closed down by all accounts, which is a real pity.
I’m reliably informed that The Criterion in Leicester is a good place to meet up beforehand. Anyone know any good curry houses?
24 April 2011
Jitsu_g
Hello,
Anyone any idea of stage times tomorrow evening ?
An early evening of (hopefully) finding a sunny beer garden somewhere in Leicester, so wouldn’t want to get carried away with the ale and miss any of the gig
Cheers
27 April 2011
BrumBiscuit
Just checked the venue’s website & there’s nowt about timings, so I’ll assume it’s a 9pm kick off. Looks like I’ll be in The Criterion from 7 or so.
28 April 2011
Charles Exford
Mrs E & myself quite impressed by what we have found of the support band Echolocation (on their Murdochspace unfortunately), so getting there for 8.
28 April 2011
jitsu_g
Venue bit tricky to find. Ended up asking for directions from a nice man in a birkenhead van hire van. It was Nigel, we were outside. Forgot to get in an early shout for chatteris .
28 April 2011
John Burscough
Any strategies or logistics?
28 April 2011
TWO FAT FEET
Birkenhead Van Hire. None more rock and roll.
28 April 2011
jitsu_g
Head for the market
28 April 2011
jitsu_g
There is a 45 min wait for pizzas in the criterion. They look good though
28 April 2011
BrumBiscuit
The pizzas were good, and the wait allowed time for another pint!
29 April 2011
Jitsu_g
Just suggested to the other half that she might like a nice weekend in the Lakes in early July, she seemed keen – so it will be her first HMHB gig.
I swifly followed that up by suggesting a September road trip to Leamington en route to friends in Essex. It will require a Friday night stop over after the gig – currently looking at B&Bs in Chatteris.
7 May 2011
Robbin Yachts
Saw recently the Millennium Music Hall (venue for Cardiff gig) is
closing down but apparently relocating. Nothing on their website as to where this will be…
26 May 2011
Gregg Z
I weep as I write this, but I will not be flying from the states to your lovely country for the London (Shepherd’s Bush) gig in June. Was 95% certain the trip was a go, but after purchasing the concert tix, the 5% reared its head, and the trip is off.
Needless to say, can’t let these go unused, so my clutter could become your future. I’m not looking for money, as I don’t have the stomach for such machinations.
I think what’s on offer here is a free pair for the gig. I’ve got the tickets on an email, so I could send to whomever. Does this sound too good to be true? Sadly, it isn’t.
Let me know, dear punters.
27 May 2011
Gregg Z
Well..if someone happens to have an extra copy of “Saucy Haulage Ballads” in exchange, I wouldn’t turn it down.
But that’s about as likely as Tranmere winning the Cup Final anytime soon.
27 May 2011
Charles Exford
Gregg – as the one person on this earth who has expressed most discomfort with your brainchild, the Lux Familiar Cup, and as a ticketless person who has only today worked out a way not to be at work in Leeds that day, it would seem that the universe is perhaps after all ruled not by chance and indifference, but by a karmic moan.
I’d like to pay of course. “Face value till I die, whether I sell or buy”, as I often sing to that stupid Man City/Ingerlund tune.
This would be a great compensation on my birthday weekend, even if it’s not National Shite Day that progresses. I’ve already had such a good beginning to the weekend that I’m in danger of becoming blithely assured that football will triumph over evil tomorrow at Wembley. My optimism strikes me as something I hardly know what to do with.
“It’s raining soup and I’ve got a fork
But I just had a good win double at Cork.”
27 May 2011
Charles Exford
Oh and there’s a saucy little platter here with your name on it.
27 May 2011
Gregg Z
This is all a bit too heartwarming. As soon as you send me your email address, the tickets are yours.
Cheers.
28 May 2011
BrumBiscuit
@Jitsu_G: I assume you’re joking about the Chatteris B&B? Hope so, cos it’s a 2 1/2 to 3-hour journey. If you’re really doing an overnighter, the Travelodge in Leamington’s 5 minutes walk from The Assembly & had rooms for £35 last time I checked. There’s a Wetherspoons opposite for a cheap brekkie too.
28 May 2011
Narberther
Any news on the Cardiff gig? The venue has closed down for some reason. I knew it’d be too good to last
1 June 2011
Jitsu_g
@ Brumbiscuit. We are going to stay in Leamington after the gig (Thursday – probably Travelodge or similar) , Chatteris on Friday, Party in Essex on Saturday back to Bradford Sunday !
1 June 2011
Chris The Siteowner
Apparently the Cardiff gig is moving to the university, according to this chap on Tiwtter.
9 June 2011
Charles Exford
Gregg! Unfortunately I can’t make it to London after all … our hippy dog-sitter is now setting off for Glasto several days earlier than planned, probably in order to avoid the gun towers, and this is one of several factors that messes things up.
Plus, or should I say Probe Plus, it’s now confirmed that there’s no prospect of the new album being sneaked out at any of the forthcoming gigs till (reasonable rates) early September. The prospect that it might have been launched at the home of the Crackerjack pencil was always the main draw to this one for me.
Anyway, folks, that means Gregg’s 2 spares are still available.
10 June 2011
Dave Wiggins
The Cardiff gig has definitely moved to the University (‘Solus’, or similar, is the place). Sod’s law just after I book a hotel near the original venue …
10 June 2011
Dave Wiggins
I can sort Gregg with a ‘Saucy Haulage Ballads’ unless Charles has, but I don’t need the tickets (and nor do I require anything as vulgar as ‘money’ for it).
10 June 2011
Dave Wiggins
Just posting so that I can update my email address. I wasn’t sure how else to do it. But I do have a very powerful magnet.
10 June 2011
Neil G
DAVE WIGGINS
“I can sort Gregg with a ‘Saucy Haulage Ballads’ unless Charles has, but I don’t need the tickets (and nor do I require anything as vulgar as ‘money’ for it).”
Dave, I’m on the lookout for a second hand car. You don’t happen to have one lying around, do you? Obviously, I wouldn’t be so vulgar as to offer you ‘money’ for it.
10 June 2011
Gregg Z
Shame if the tickets don’t get used. That’s the rub, far as I’m concerned.
As for “Saucy Haulage Ballads”, I certainly wouldn’t turn down a copy if it’s going idle in someone’s upstairs room. Vulgarian that I am….
11 June 2011
Chris The Siteowner
…ooh, a rare away fixture for me, just booked m’ticket, passage and a mate’s room for Edinburgh at the end of the month. See you there!
11 June 2011
Charles Exford
No takers then for two free tickets for a band, some would say a super-group, that features former members of Venomous Youth, Split Gut, North of Watford, Jegsy Dodd and The Sons of Harry Cross ?
At a venue whose boards were stomped for so many decades by Peter Glaze and Don Maclean, and upon which so many of Jimmy Saville’s putrid cigar stubs were extinguished?
12 June 2011
Charles Exford
Huzzah! Tickets gone to a good home, or at least friends of a good home: the man who took this – in fact, the man who has taken more HMHB gig photos than anyone else in recorded history.
Check out his protest-y photos on those Flickr pages.
13 June 2011
Gregg Z
Perfect! I’m happy that the tickets have found a home. Enjoy all…
Send more pictures from the gig please….
13 June 2011
TWO FAT FEET
Heartwarming.
13 June 2011
Third Rate Les
I have four tickets for the gig on Friday which I no longer need as I will be out of the country and Jeff Dreadnought has done his back in.
Happy to give them for free to a good home if anyone’s interested. It seems a shame to just not use them.
Not sure how you would contact me, mind you. Put some kind of clever link up, I suppose.
14 June 2011
Jeff Dreadnought
Bastard slip of a disk ruined my weekend. I can’t stand any more because I can’t stand any more.
14 June 2011
Chris The Siteowner
If anyone on the site needs to get in touch with anyone else, I’m always happy to forward your email address to them. Just let me know.
14 June 2011
Toffo 78
Looking for a decent B&B in Kendal. One night only of course. Cheers.
14 June 2011
FAC 285
T R Les,
I haven’t got round to getting tickets yet – was hoping to turn up on the night and get standing tickets, but having just checked the Sheps Bush website there may not be any standing left. So if you’re still looking to offload any I’ll take two off you and sort you out with some cash/ale somehow. Will get in touch via Chris the Siteowner.
cheers
15 June 2011
Third Rate Les
Hi FAC 285
I’ve sent them. Hope you enjoy it.
16 June 2011
John Anderson
Looking forward to tomorrow’s gig. I’ll be in the Defector’s Weld pub from around 7pm if anyone fancies a pint.
Glasses, black jacket, Fall Lie-Dream T-shirt.
16 June 2011
Paul F
As a HMHB gig virgin with a train to catch in from West Berkshire, what’s the best suggestion for what time to get there?
16 June 2011
TWO FAT FEET
Doors open at seven of the clock by all accounts, I’m more concerned with what time it finishes. Am off to Snowdonia in the wee small hours and don’t want to miss the last train out of Liverpool St …
16 June 2011
Sarah
According to the Shepherds bush Empire website, the support is on at 7.30-8, and HMHB are on at 8.30
17 June 2011
Paul F
Cheers.
17 June 2011
Neil
Free Tickets for tonight.
My fellow HMHB ticket holder and I are prevented from attending Shepherd’s Bush tonight by wives who do not appreciate the enormity of the tragedy they have precipitated. Email me at neil dot beddoe at raidllp dot com if you want them.
Be nice and polite or I’ll ignore you.
17 June 2011
Norbert D
According to someone I know who got it from the horse’s mouth, as it were, the whole show’s over by 10.30 tonight. Early start, early finish. Shouldn’t be a problem getting a train home (although travelling from Shepherd’s Bush to any major train station except Paddington can take a bit of time, if you use public transport).
17 June 2011
TWO FAT FEET
Thanks Nobby, I thought about 10 – 10.30 allowing for an estimated two song encore.
17 June 2011
Paul F
Mrs F has been singularly unimpressed about me disappearing out tonight, but I think the proximity to Father’s Day has had an impact, so no outright hostility. At least the tickets for this weren’t allocated through a bizarre system that favoured people with the financial clout to risk having £5,000 taken out of their bank account without warning. Even risking £700 and not pointlessly applying for the 100m Final didn’t get me a single Olympic ticket. Coe should swing for this shambles.
17 June 2011
Neil
I wish I’d used the Father’s day ploy. Never mind. I’m home to watch Tron Legacy (not my choice but he’s 9) and keep the peace during a sleepover.
Nobody wants my tickets then.
17 June 2011
Chris The Siteowner
Right, that’s That London over and done with for another few years. Next question: where’s the Designated Pub which will be filled with yellow and maroon before the Edinburgh gig?
18 June 2011
BrumBiscuit
Just a quick note to say that the Travelodges in Cardiff are £15 for the night of the gig there. Get in fast.
18 June 2011
ChrisH
The Edinburgh gig is one week today!
Support band, The Mannequins, are well worth checking out- they’ll be on stage at 7.30pm.
23 June 2011
Chris The Siteowner
…and ChrisH suggests The Bow Bar just down the road before and after the gig…
23 June 2011
Murray Meikle
The Bow Bar is the traditional meeting place for those of us of a certain age before and after gigs at the Liquid Rooms. It’s small but has a decent range of ales. Dave and Barbara will refer you to the blackboard.
24 June 2011
Jitsu_g
Anyone doing Thursday and Friday nights ?
Only going to Kendal but hotel booked in Leamington – that will be the other halfs 2nd Biscuits gig – hope she likes her first on Friday !
Been trying to teach her songs based on most often played at recent gigs – she is getting there , at least she knows who Bob Wilson is now
26 June 2011
Toffo 78 Huyton
Friday only. Can’t wait.
26 June 2011
Argieuk
Also Friday only- decent pubs nearby? Or is the one at the venue the best choice?
28 June 2011
Geordie Paul
Don’t go further than the Vats bar upstairs at the Brewery Arts centre in Kendal. Lively with a good choice of real ales. Make sure you try the Hawkshead – Ale and Arty.
28 June 2011
Charles Exford
We weren’t going to rely on a long range from the Met. But as at least two opinionated medium-rangers have forecast a fine weekend we’ve just booked ticket numbers 300 and 301 for Friday.
28 June 2011
S.G.D A SHROPSHIRE LAD
a bit late for a preview but…
Half Man Half Biscuit play the Liquid Room in Edinburgh on Thursday June 30. One of the great unwritten rules of lyricism is that any attempt to inject songs with comedy should only be attempted if the humour is of either an acerbic or pithy nature. It is testament to HMHB that they continue into their fourth decade as one of the few great satirical and observationally comic voices in British music, without losing their appeal. Expect reference to Joy Division Oven Gloves, the incredible ability of football referees to run backwards and bad losers at online chess. Imagine the news, as written and read by Mark E Smith, set to a Bob Dylan track and you can comprehend something of HMHB.
taken from STV by Thom Watt.
2 July 2011
Toffo
Thanks to the lady who was giving out Dukla Prague badges at Kendal the other night. As always, wonderful.
3 July 2011
Toerag
Today’s Daily Mirror (I know, my wife buys it!) lists a Biscuits gig at Manchester Ritz on Sat Dec 17th!
19 August 2011
Dave Wiggins
Good shout, er, ‘Toerag’. I am doing Cardiff, next week, as December seems so far off. First time I have seen them in Wales since the legendary Llandudno West Shore show, many Summers ago.
19 August 2011
Neil G
Nothing on the Ritz website about HMHB. Maybe they don’t know yet. Steve Malkmuss and Gary Numan are booked though. http://www.hmvritz.com/
19 August 2011
John Burscough
Saturday? A HMHB gig on A Saturday? The first one (apart from two festivals) since 1999? Where’s the inconvenience in that?
19 August 2011
colin
Dave a warm welcome will await you in Cardiff next week gig is about a 10 minute walk from the town centre its full of great boozers and some shite ones as well if you get a chance pop into a bar called Live Lounge (opposite William Hills on Queen Street and undernetah JJb sports) as you can imagine its live music and very cheap beer agreat way to start the night
19 August 2011
Gregg Z
Lastly, couldn’t help but notice on the Manchester Ritz website, that Adam Ant is not only playing a gig, but still dressed in the same ant gear from 1981.
No wonder Andy Warren and Lester Square didn’t stick around.
19 August 2011
TAYLO
I have Gary Numan on the 8th December, Adam Ant on the 14th, New Model Army on the 15th and now potentially Biscuit on the 17th…all at The Ritz!
22 August 2011
Dave Wiggins
Colin; very grateful for the info. You have made me a happy man, as I was convinced that the change of venue would see me having to traipse halfway across the Capital from my city-centre accommodation. Appreciated; you have generated a warmth around my plans that augurs well for Thursday night.
22 August 2011
argieuk
Manchester gig now on the Ritz site
http://www.hmvritz.com/
£18+ booking fee, apparently.
Now to justify spending weekend before christmas is Manchester..
22 August 2011
S.G.D A SHROPSHIRE LAD
Tranmere are at Stevenage that day – 180miles, could be a late night!
22 August 2011
colin
Dave …and thats what lifes about
23 August 2011
BrumBiscuit
Next gig: Leamington. Within walking distance along the Grand Union from Warwick. Not often you can say that about a gig.
I will probably be fuelling up in the nearby Jug & Jester. It’s always been a decent-ish pub, but I haven’t been in since it was wetherspooned. Still, Thursday is curry night. Not sure if that’s good preparation for a bit of mosh pit action, but all & sundry will know if it isn’t.
The Avenue pub is opposite the gig and is OK, if nothing special.
This may have been mentioned before, but the changing rooms at The Assembly are Tammy Wynette’s Winnebago.
3 September 2011
Jitsu_g
Can anyone with any local Leamington knowledge advise of any other pre gig pubs with decent ale ?
Ordered Manchester tickets for December. At least I know my way around the pubs there !
10 September 2011
Graham Paine
The Jug and Jester is 100 yards away (a reasonable Wetherspoon’s). There is another Wetherspoon’s on the Parade called the Benjamin Satchwell which is also quite good (in new 2012 GBG), but for the best pub in the locality you will have to venture out to Warwick and visit the Wild Boar – near the hospital – 5 beers on tap but sadly not eligible for new GBG.
10 September 2011
Paddy
Just been listening to David Wainwright’s feet. Anyone got any more info/insights into this? I have just played it six times in a row it is utterly brilliant. Did Nigel write it?
10 September 2011
BrumBiscuit
@Graham Paine: The Wild Boar’s 2 mins from my house. I must’ve seen you there!
Leamington has some decent ale pubs, but the two mentioned above are OK, really!. The better ones are up in the other end of town and not that close to the venue. The town centre is a student haunt with all the shite that throws up. I doubt you’ll get more convenient than the Jug & Jester.
The Cricketers isn’t all that far away, but is a bit pokey and chintzy.
Roll on Bilston with the Olde White Rose!
11 September 2011
Gillyramone
Another decent pub for beer in Leamington is the Talbot, which is about 10 minutes walk away (and just off the Grand Union Canal), does Wye Valley beers amongst others.(postcode CV31 1JA). Landlord has a decent taste in music and good chance he’ll be at the gig (if not him, certainly a few of the regulars.
12 September 2011
Jitsu_g
Cheers for the pub advice.
Just booked tickets for Bilson in Jan so will be able to try out the Olde White Rose !
12 September 2011
BrumBiscuit
@GillyRamone: I cycled past The Talbot a couple of weeks ago when riding to the ale delights of Long Itchington. It looked closed down, though I only had a quick glance as I went past. Sounds good though & is an easy stroll and will have more soul than the Jug & Jester.
Does anyone know the start time for the gig? 9pm?
12 September 2011
Graham Paine
Would expect it to be 9 or very soon after – certainly no earlier.
13 September 2011
BrumBiscuit
They’ve never done The Len Ganley Stance live. Me & a mate got a chorus going in the Hibernian, Selly Oak, Brum in 1995 (?), only for Nigel to say he didn’t know the words.
Wonder if they’ll break the duck on Thursday? I imagine Len’s view of “his” song was a little more positive than Fred Titmus’!
13 September 2011
John Burscough
Titmus’. Apostrophe chapeau.
13 September 2011
TWO FAT FEET
Never heard it performed live either, although I have heard it at a gig, so to speak. That is to say, someone was singing it as he walked into the bogs at Shepherd’s Bush in June, presumably an observation of the people standing in front of the urinals.
13 September 2011
Charles Exford
Arrangements were very cloudy but are becoming clearer. Mrs. Exford organising a frisbee competition in Northumbria so not coming. I booked a train to arrive in Leamington early morning, just in case there was glory to be hunted in Somerset, which could have then been fitted in on a separate day return ticket before returning to Warwickshire (how ironic) for the gig. It wouldn’t have been a cheap ticket that one from Leamington to Taunton, but it’s the closest Lancashire CCC have come in my lifetime, so it would have been worth it.
Doesn’t look likely now, what with Warwickshire just needing 7 more wickets in Southampton, so will have all afternoon to work out what Leamington and/or environs has to offer. I only know that the Wetherspoon’s curry night served us well before the Leicester gig so it may well be thus again. I will look out for others in DPAS and those I know off of here , but as for me, the withering look of Neil Crossley in Carlisle made me feel like a Bad Wool and maybe it’s time to retire the shiny replica DPAK.after 11 years? Anyway I’ve carrying some tendonitis so might not be up for 2 hours in the mosh. Late fitness test for Exford.
14 September 2011
S.G.D A SHROPSHIRE LAD
Len Ganley was frequently played live in the early days – Leeds,Birmingham,Chelmsford etc
14 September 2011
Charles Exford
Yep, Kendal it was, not Carlisle.
14 September 2011
BrumBiscuit
I will be around after 4pm & possibly eating in the Jug & Jester a little later. The weather seems set fair, so Jephson Gardens is worth a genteel stroll. I’m a Warwick lad meself, but it’s only a 45-minute stroll along the Grand Union (access near the railway station). If your tendonitis will allow it, the climb up the tower of St Mary’s (£2.50) will reward you with spectacular views & the crypt is a good way to waste half an hour, should you be of the cultural bent. The train will take you the short hop in 5 mins from L. Spa to Warwick, but make sure it stops at Warwick & isn’t one of the ones that only stops at Warwick Parkway, where you can smell the yuppiemobiles. Forget Warwick Castle, unless you have £20 to blow.
In what must be the ultimate in cheapskatery, I have a 20% off voucher for the other Wetherspoons pub, The Benjamin Satchwell, so might go for that instead. Might also dig out the CAMRA 50p off vouchers. Anything less than 5% I don’t wanna drink it!
I have put the DPAS on the bench for tonight, so I can give the Barnstonewrorth Utd Davitt shirt its first airing, along with the Primark FM t-shirt for during the gig.
The Talbot is about a mile from the venue. Like a saddo, I measured it on me bike after signing on yesterday!
Come on You Bears!!!
15 September 2011
Dave Wiggins
Brumbiscuit; for reasons I am struggling to articulate, I just loved that post! Taking ‘VR’ in April 2012, I shall also be signing on (with no hope in my heart) for the first time since I turned up and clocked on 31 years ago.
15 September 2011
Greasby Shark
I definitely recall Len Ganley Stance being played at my first HMHB gig (at the Mardi Gras in Liverpool). Mind you, that was some 25 years ago!
15 September 2011
John Burscough
…though there may be a few wools who disagree with the last line of BB’s post.
Come on Carberry!
15 September 2011
BrumBiscuit
I see the Hampshire boys have forced The Bears to bat again.
Two important updates: 1) I’ve found me Wetherspoon vouchers. 2) The Brum to Leamington line via Solihull was blocked this morning by a goods train carrying aviation fuel with its engine on fire. Would be worth checking it’s reopened, if you’re coming that way.
There might be a bus replacement service!
The Benjamin Satchwell looks favourite for food, as it’s opposite the Travelodge that shall be my lodgings tonight. Yes, I know I only live a couple of miles away, but I got a £10 room in the sale & I don’t have to face the missus post-gig. She just wouldn’t understand. The look of disdain on her face when I excitedly explained about Dean Friedman at the Robin2 made me realise that.
Enjoy the delights of Royal Leamington Spa & I’ll see you later perhaps.
15 September 2011
John Burscough
Anyone prepared to bet that the cover at Manchester will be “A Song From Under The Floorboards” again? I may not have been at the Lesser Free Trade Hall, y’all, but I did see Magazine play the Mecca of the Modern Dance, The Ritz in 1978.
(JCC was support, the night they recorded ‘Salome Maloney’ (Queen of the Ritz) for release on Disguise In Love.)
30 September 2011
Dave Wiggins
Name-dropper alert. Spoke to ‘Let it Happen’ today, and Neil said they are looking forward to their Ritz debut. Still a query over whether Calvin Party will be the support, given that the lead singer lives in The Netherlands, and it’s quite a way to travel for a stage-time of 6.45! There’s no way on earth……..
13 October 2011
SPENCER THE HALFWIT
I’m sure the advert in the music mags this month said it would be Lovecraft again.
13 October 2011
John Burscough
If Calvin Party are coming over from The Netherlands, why not bring Novelle with them?
14 October 2011
Dave Wiggins
Meh, John!
14 October 2011
Lippy Kid
Hello, as a relatively new convert (I own AB, 90B, CLSC & TLP – although I found that one less accessible), I was looking forward to my first gig in Manchester. However, having looked through some of the comments on here, I’m now a bit scared. It seems like there’s a big club and, as someone who’s not really a joiner, I’m going to spend the evening feeling like someone on the outside of a joke. What do I need to know? What are the running themes? Of what regularly played songs do I need a working appreciation?
Cheers.
12 November 2011
Lipa Kid
Oops, got my name wrong, I meant it to be this. Sorry.
12 November 2011
Vendor of Quack Nostrums
Relax LK. A while back Chris the Siteowner gently prodded the good folk on this site into helping him analyse every gig this century. (Although he himself did most of the hard stuff). Pour yourself a glass of a classic red bottled by a medal-winning estate on the banks of the Garonne and peruse this.
12 November 2011
Chris The Siteowner
Most of the gigs I’ve been to split fairly evenly between the diehards who are really sociable (a lot of gold Dukla Prague away shirts), some diehards who don’t seem to be quite so sociable (mysterious in-joke T-shirts), those who know the stuff but only go to the gigs in their area (i.e about once every few years), and a bunch of people who don’t even know the material that well and who have come along out of curiosity (some of the students in this group wouldn’t have been born when DHSS came out, so good for them). It’s a really good mix, and I’ve never come away from a gig without having met and chatted to some really interesting people. There’s no other band for which I can say that’s been the case. It’s certainly not a big club, but it is a friendly crowd. I suspect that the choice of Manchester venue and the encouraging sales and publicity for the new album will bring a lot of first-timers out for that gig.
12 November 2011
Lipa Kid
Thanks chaps.
21 November 2011
Gregg Z
Not sure if this has been covered yet, but I can’t help wondering about the scheduling of a fixture in Manchester at 8pm, when Tranmere visits Stevenage the very same day at 3pm.
Had to search distance from Manchester to Stevenage, and it looks to be 2 hours plus, at best, from door to door (as a Yank, I’m not as familiar as I’d like with the vagaries of navigating the byways of Hertfordshire and its surrounds).
So, assuming NB57 will attend the match (does he do away matches??), how in hell do you get from the grounds to the gig by 8pm? Even with a SatNav? Just Who is the 8 o’clock Hero, indeed?
Welcoming feedback from the locals.
Now, leave me alone with my pitiful competition onions….
22 November 2011
Charles Exford
You’ve done the maths there Gregg, and exiting the ground at 4.53pm it could be done quite feasibly if the getaway car was craftily parked, but Nigel doesn’t do quite as many aways as he used to or would like to.
Don’t forget Nigel himself doesn’t drive, and band driver Neil doen’t do too many aways these days.
22 November 2011
Jitsu_g
Manchester pre gig plans now in place.
Afternoon in the excellent Stalybridge Train station buffet bar for a few light ales (due to early start and my age will be sticking to pints under 5% !)
Moving onto the Christmas Markets (to keep the ladies of the party happy !) and perhaps a mulled wine or 3 and a German sausage.
And then (hopefully) a short stroll to the gig – although not having been to the Ritz before I fully expect to be frantically searching for it at 7.55 !!
4 December 2011
John Burscough
If you’re at the Albert Square market, Jitsu, walk down Mount St to the Midland Hotel, turn left down Oxford St then right at The Cornerhouse, past the railway station and you’re there – about 1/4 mile.
8 December 2011
Jitsu-g
Ta John, I was in Manchester the other night visiting the venue that used to be g Mex. I spotted the ritz so I think there will be no pre gig panic ! I’ll be wearing my retro honved shirt so say hello if you are there
9 December 2011
Warden Hodges
Wish I was at the gig next week but I’m at the big non-league game on Merseyside that day, Marine v Chester.
Too much hassle to get to Mcr by 7.30-8. I await the Exxo/Roger Green reviews.
10 December 2011
John Burscough
I’ll look out for you, Jitsu. (I also may be fairly easy to spot, wearing a ‘King of” Hi-Vis jacket in a doomed attempt to get them to play it live for the first time ever, so please come and say hello, anybody.)
Since it’ll be only a week before Christmas, here’s a HMHB Festive Four:
It’s Clichéd To Be Cynical At Christmas
All I Want For Christmas Is A Dukla Prague Away Kit
Shit Arm, Bad Tattoo
The Referee’s Alphabet
Any other suggestions?
12 December 2011
Vendor of Quack Nostrums
Epiphany.
12 December 2011
John Burscough
Good one.
Fear My Wraith
We Built This Village On A Trad. Arr. Tune.
12 December 2011
rapscallion
Given the early kick off is their a support bant if so hom and at what time?
13 December 2011
rapscallion
band and Whom the typos. Sorry.Pesky android phones
13 December 2011
John Burscough
Lovecraft supporting, according to the Ritz website (presumably the Widnes Victorian folk-gothic-indie-electro-art rockers rather than the 60s San Francisco-based psychedelic rock band).
14 December 2011
Diggler
The buffet bar at Stalybridge station is good for a pre-gig drink for those travelling in from the east by train. I’m up for the Briton’s Protection – beer at the venue is overpriced and with little change from £5 for a beer a complete ramp.
16 December 2011
John Burscough
Briton’s Protection, excellent. (Far be it from me to nitpick, but their website states that they have a collection of 200 hundred whiskies to choose from, so I’ll be lodging a complaint if there’s only 19,999.)
16 December 2011
King Tubbs
What is it with venues and overpriced beer?
Is it Lovecraft that are on at eight, or HMHB?
17 December 2011
Charles Exford
We’re saving for a big trip in Jan-Feb, and had a few big bills come in lately (dog’s bollocks, etc), so wasn’t going to go tonight … until that is (sorry Mr. Siteowner Sir) ….GRANT HOLT FGS 12-1 …. TWELVE TO FLIPPIN’ ONE …. and I’m on Norwich DNB at 9-2 so if Norwich don’t lose …I’m THERE, and if they WIN … I can even afford venue beer prices.
(I’m so glad the Canaries could be of service, he said through gritted teeth – Ed)
17 December 2011
Diggler
I would think that it’s HMHB at 8pm, as there is something else on at 10:30, hence the 10pm curfew. Wondered what could be on after? Puppet show and Spinal Tap
17 December 2011
jitsu_g
Some sort of club night after gig so be there for 8. Stalybridge train bar on form as usual, off on the next train to the Britons Protection
17 December 2011
Diggler
Just on my way for my train – see you at the Britons, y’all
17 December 2011
BrumBiscuit
Well, it may be cliched, but I’m sitting here at home on my own, cynically, of course, looking forward to the Bilston gig and a pre-gig jar & carvery in the Olde White Rose before.
And, as if by magic, I’m also in my DP away shirt.
Bah, humbug!
24 December 2011
Third Rate Les
Got my Bilston tickets. That’s going to be tough as I have a flight from Heathrow at 6 the next morning, but if all goes well I should be able to get at least 45 minutes uninterrupted sleep (medal please…)
Mr “Steve Kean Is Alive – Why?” Espley – let me know if you’ll be there.
5 January 2012
Why Steve Kean is Alive
The Knighthood for Steve Kean campaign starts here.
5 January 2012
Gregg Z
Bilston, eh? What sort of a town is this? Anyone care to paint a picture for those abroad?
9 January 2012
Third Rate Les
Been there a couple of times and quite like it. A village that has been mainly subsumed into the wider run-down urban sprawl of Wolverhampton, which in itself is part of the wider run-down urban sprawl of the Midlands. In US terms think of perhaps Cleveland. Still, there’s a bit of local character. The venue itself reminds me a bit of a big scout hut, and is over the road from a good curry house. Couple of pubs, one of which is pretty good CAMRA man kind of place. There’s also a chip shop and a take-away Balti. I stayed once in a hostel which was £19 including big cooked breakfast. I suppose it’s a bit mean summarising a place which you’ve only ever been to in the evenings for one specific purpose and I may be missing its other glories.
9 January 2012
John Burscough
The CAMRA pub around the corner is the Olde White Rose, far better than Woody’s Bar at the venue – named after Roy Wood (whom we saw hurrying out of it to get to the OWR before playing there last year).
10 January 2012
Charles Exford
In my opinion the Olde White Rose, Gregg, would be worth your air fare on its own, easily reached from Birmingham Airport as it is. I’d advise that you drink halves though, because there are so so many fine ales to sample, and that you shun its range of good value a la carte meals, perfectly fine though they be, and pile the more-or-less-free carvery high on your plate. Allow at least two hours for digestion before the mosh of course.
I shall, unfortunately, be in Brazil while next week’s gig is on, perhaps even bobbling cheekily along the Tropic of Capricorn on a lilo at that particular time.
10 January 2012
Dave Cooper
Further into the town is another wonderful pub, The Trumpet. The locals an be a bit strange (it IS near Wolverhampton) but if you even slightly interested in jazz it’s a must just for the memorabilia. Holden’s pub with the odd guest ale.
10 January 2012
Jitsu_g
Looking forward to Bilston – Bearing in mind that my train gets in to Wolverhampton early afternoon and I want to kill a few hours (to avoid sitting in the pub) is it walkable to Bilston, added bonus also of passing very close to Monmore greyhound track.
11 January 2012
John Burscough
We drove into Wolverhampton from Bilston the morning after the Roy Wood gig (and later rued it) – I expect it’d take an hour or so to walk. First hare running at Monmore at 7.25pm on Thursday.
12 January 2012
Mac
Jitsu_ G it’s probably an hour walk.
I recommend walking to the Tram Station and catching the Metro to Bilston. And using the time in the pub. I know you said you didn’t want to but it does have some great bear and will be full of fans
Tram stop to Robin 5 minute walk.
http://g.co/maps/7w22j
12 January 2012
2 Chevrons
Sonia Lannaman used to represent Wolverhampton and Bilston. Wonder if they’ll do ‘Whiteness Thy Name Is Meltonian’ …
12 January 2012
jitsu_g
Ta for the info Mac, my train gets into wolves at 1pm so walking won’t cut into pub time that much. These days too many pre gig pints and I struggle to remember the gig ! A steady afternoon is the order of the day I think ! As I will be on my own for this gig I shall be seeking conversation so don’t want to come across as (too much of ) a stumbling mess at tea time.
13 January 2012
jitsu_g
Are you going to bilston john ?
13 January 2012
John Burscough
You betcha. Look for the stumbling mess in the Hi-Vis jacket.
13 January 2012
BrumBiscuit
I hope there are no Bilstonians on here, as the place is a post-Thatcher era ghost town. OK, I went there on a cold January Saturday, but I wouldn’t have been surprised if tumbleweed had flown down the High Street past us.
The next time I was there – last year – I saw two different piles of flowers where two murders had taken place within days. The OWR & The Trunpet are saving graces – make sure you try Holdens’ beer – but it’s a grim place since the steel works went & Merry Hill opened.
Well, you did ask Gregg Z!
14 January 2012
Mac
Cant believe I typed “bear” and not “beer”.
15 January 2012
Dave Cooper
Mac – I can!
16 January 2012
BrumBiscuit
Last Saturday I called in to the Robin2 to get me tickets and after to meet a mate in the Olde White Rose. Great choice of beer it may well have, but don’t ever, ever go there on a Saturday! The “disco” was not of I Went to a Wedding standard by a long chalk! He did not know his craft well, but thought he did.
Anyway, in true CAMRA Man spirit, I tried the 5%+ brews and can vouch, heartily, for the Sarah Hughes Ruby Mild, brewed a few miles away in Sedgley. The Kelham was nice, but the biggest surprise was the Snowdonia summat or other – only 3.8% – gorgeous! It might be my parsimonious nature, but prices at the OWR seemed to have leapt markedly since my last visit – Deano Night.
I suspect there will be a few DPAS there on Thursday. See you there.
24 January 2012
SIMON P
I couldn’t make this gig originally but due to a Michael Gove-esque screw up in our Local Education Authority I am now in London next Thursday as opposed to this one … so I will be there! Driving, sadly, but you can’t have everything. With a bit of luck someone will nick my malfunctioning car.
24 January 2012
SIMON P
Ooh hang on, I’ve just read upwards. Is it definitely a 10pm curfew? If so I could make the last train!
24 January 2012
SIMON P
Oh bollocks, I’ve read too far up. That was Manchester. As you were.
24 January 2012
jitsu_g
All set for tomorrow, 2 days booked off work. If you see middle aged fat bloke in retro honved shirt come and say hello. I am looking forward to paying a visit to the olde white rose (feel free to use my real name if you see me ( Graham) rather than my user name.)
25 January 2012
Floreat Ultonia
Every day is Australia Day- Sons and Daughters, Home and Away. End of the century party preparations, Sting singing on the roof of the Barbican…
PS quite heavy drizzle, sticking to the facts…
26 January 2012
BrumBiscuit
@ Jitsu_G/Graham. You’re the bloke from oop north I met in Leamington, aren’t you? I’ll be in the OWR from about 7. I’ve got a spare Honved shirt I’ll be lending me mate, so that’ll be at least two of you. I’ll have me Dickie Davies hoodie and/or Primark FM t-shirt on. Please don’t let me get as pissed as I was in Leamington. I read the setlist the day after & couldn’t remember half the songs!
26 January 2012
jitsu_g
Thats me, can’t promise that I’ll be able to keep you off the ale though ! See you later
26 January 2012
Steve Kean is Alive,Why?
Mr ‘Third Rate Les’ Kennedy,
Sorry but couldn’t make it to Bilston in the end as the wife had a prior engagement and had to stay home to look after our daughter. Sure a good time was had by all and hope to be able to meet up at the next gig in the Midlands vicinity -hope you made your flight on time!
26 January 2012
Jitsu_g
Oooh, gig in Leeds in June !
9 February 2012
Charles Exford
Ooh yes, thanks for the heads-up Jitsu, a gig amidst the Dreaming Spires of Academia…. and one down in Oxford too. A particularly useful heads-up for me personally, ‘cos I’d actually started looking into promoting one in Leeds meself (it surely can’t be as difficult as Keenan makes it look).
9 February 2012
Gregg Z
Still trying to sort out a visit to the UK for a gig. Looks as though Leeds is in the running, but planning is in the early stages, so I thought I’d get this missive out right away.
What’s the venue like? Clean, cheap hotels nearby? Also, anyone have an opinion on whether to fly to London or Manchester from USA. Manchester is closer to Leeds, naturally, and I’m guessing the trains are as frequent.
The spanner in the works is, of course, that you lot decided to hold some sort of “Olympics” in your fair nation. This arrangement does not sit well with my desire to attend an HMHB gig at a reasonable price.
13 February 2012
John Burscough
Leeds will be pretty much your standard city centre Student Union gig, big dull venue with a lot of bars. Several hotels within 10 minutes walk, cheapest on booking.com looks to be the Ibis. Good Transpennine train service, not yet electrified so takes an hour from Manc to Leeds, £6 if booked in advance online. Megabus is only £1 but takes longer.
(Unfortunately I’ll be heading in the opposite direction, missing both Oxford and Leeds by being in California chiz.)
13 February 2012
Vendor of Quack Nostrums
If you are just coming for the gig then Manchester is more convenient, but it’s not as if London is out of reach. Depends on prices, flight times etc. Even though it’s a British pastime to moan about our transport systems, they are fairly efficient.
What I would say though is that both travel and accommodation in the UK is considerably cheaper if you book early. Leave it until the last minute and you can easily pay 3 or 4 times more for the same journey / room. For example, a room for tomorrow night at the Leeds Central Travelodge is £63.60; on the night of the gig in question, they are currently selling for £19.50.
Most British budget hotel chains are clean and well run. There are plenty of them in the major cities; supply generally outstrips demand most of the time. Don’t expect feeding though, the rates are generally room only. If they offer breakfasts then they tend to be rather poor fayre at best. Plenty of cheap restaurants however, so you won’t starve. The Olympics isn’t until the end of July, so hopefully that shouldn’t really be a problem.
13 February 2012
Duchess of Westminster
If you are here for a visit, dare I venture that Oxford is a jolly nice place for a stroll? Number two holiday destination after London apparently. Get up early and wander round the quads before 9.00 am on a June morning and you’ll have a very nice place practically to yourself. Lots of really good but cheap bars and eating houses near the venue too.
14 February 2012
Paul F
There aren’t many dreaming spires down the Cowley Road, but the venue’s pretty close to the centre of town, so easy to combine the two.
I was in Oxford on Sunday and noted (to my great joy) that Wetherspoons have named their pub by the station the “Four Candles”.
14 February 2012
John Burscough
Ronnie Barker went to the High School (now the university Faculty of History) on the same street.
14 February 2012
Duchess of Westminster
So what did they put on the sign?
If you have the time I recommend this place. Barking mad in a good way. Close to the venue, truly good food, although the beer is a bit strange. Troll along after the gig. They are open till 2.0am.
14 February 2012
Paul F
Thanks John B – that would explain it.
As for the sign, they use the Corbett interpretation, just like this t-shirt which I received for Xmas.
14 February 2012
Duchess of Westminster
Shame, they should have had fork handles.
14 February 2012
Paul F
According to “Beer in the Evening” they have some framed inside.
14 February 2012
Duchess of Westminster
Excellent. I shall pay it a visit.
15 February 2012
Gregg Z
OK, very excited right now…a quarter of a century on, Oxford in May will be my FIRST HMHB GIG! I believe you lot would call it “dead chuffed”, but we don’t hear that phrase much in these parts (Eastern USA).
Anyway, I managed to qualify for a sales trip to Barcelona (I’m a wine merchant) at the end of May, so I’ll be landing in Spain, “working” (visiting winery, and what follows..) the first day, then next morning, flying into Heathrow, coach to Oxford, bags down, walk, drinks, dinner, drinks, gig, and then (ostensibly) a night’s rest before next day’s coach back to LHR and Barca for three more days.
Whew! Hate to encumber with such detail, but I’m about as excited about this as anything outside of births and marriage.
Would love to meet up with any and everyone on the site.
!!!!!!!!!!!!
17 February 2012
BrumBiscuit
Wow, Gregg Z! I used to think my journeys from Budapest to Blighty to see them was an epic trip! Nowadays, I’m half an hour’s walk from The Assembly in Leamington Spa which seems to host them on an almost annual basis.
17 February 2012
Charles Exford
Gregg – was about to say I’ve got a spare bed for you within a mile or so of the Leeds gig – mi casa es su casa and all that., especially after your generosity with that Shepherd’s Bush ticket. I was also going to say that I wouldn’t be surprised if one or t’other of those two weekends ends up with further Whit Week malarkey being scheduled by the Lads, especially since the Leeds one is followed at the start of the following week by a double bank holiday. I’m keeping my own arrangements suitably flexible for now.
19 February 2012
John Burscough
Damn, wish I’d thought of that.
19 February 2012
Steve Kean is Alive,Why?
Third Rate Les,
After the disappointment of missing out on Bilston I was delighted to see what is tantamount to a home fixture (well less than an hours drive at any rate) in Oxford at the end of May. Ticket has been duly purchased and date diarised on communal calendar to avoid any potential conflict re childminding duties. Hope you are able to make it also? If I’m not mistaken that would be your old university stomping ground so are there any local hostelries you can recommend for pre-gig refreshment?
19 February 2012
John Anderson
I’ve seen The Fall a couple of times at this venue and The Hobgoblin which is very near the Academy on Cowley Road has proved to be a decent meet up pub.
19 February 2012
Gregg Z
Exxo,
Many thanks for the offer, but I believe I’ll be attending the Oxford gig, rather than Leeds. Since I’m due to fly out of London the next morning, sadly, I won’t have much time to do much else.
Perhaps we’ll meet up in Oxford?
20 February 2012
Gregg Z
Since Oxford will quite probably be my one and only HMHB gig, I was wondering if anyone knows if Nige and the lads tarry after gigs to socialise with the punters.
Hate to sound liggerish, and not feeling at all entitled, but flying a very long distance for the one and only reason of seeing the band play live, I’d love to simply shake the man’s hand and thank him, not only for the music, but for helping me become far more knowledgeable about Snowdonian culture than are most Americans…
20 February 2012
Third Rate Les
Steve Kean – look forward to it! The Hobgoblin sounds like a good idea.
Gregg Z – no, they don’t. You could try lingering around the stage afterwards – I’ve nattered with Ken and Carl doing that in the past and they always seemed amusingly startled that anyone would be interested in meeting them.
20 February 2012
Dave Wiggins
TLR, likewise when I bumped into Nigel in Waterstones, Liverpool, in December, he seemed ‘amusingly startled’ that I actually knew who he was. My advice to Gregg (and, Gregg, I sent you Saucy Haulage Ballads last Wednesday, so let me know when it arrives) – depending on your schedule – is loiter around the venue at soundcheck time. Worth a try, and you can be assured that you won’t be ‘blanked’ by Nigel. Quite the opposite, I would imagine, provided you don’t try and become his new best-friend.
20 February 2012
John Burscough
If you have a laminator at work, a triple-A dangling from your lanyard wouldn’t do any harm either.
http://media.livenationinternational.com/lincsmedia/Media/d/j/o/1b28711d-edd5-405e-a78f-dacf52c6dd85.jpg
20 February 2012
Tim (and Rob)
Looking forward to Oxford after breaking our cherry at Bilston. Will be part of a group of five this time rather than two. Haiving been selling the HMHB experience enthusiastically.
Still hoping for news of a Gloucestershire date as well.
20 February 2012
Charles Exford
Surprised that none of my fellow pedants have yet picked me up on my Whit Week bank holiday date confusion. It is of course the Oxford gig that should kick off a five-day weekend, with any luck.**
Anyway yes Gregg, I should be there. Look forward to a pre-gig beer or ten.
** BTW it’s Attila’s Glastonwick weekend on the South Coast 1-3 June folks. Best festival of the summer IMHO.
20 February 2012
Gregg Z
Dave,
Thanks for the tip– Saucy Haulage Ballads received. Obliged..
27 February 2012
Android, Eyes Rolling
Re 286: If you do loiter round the venue waiting for the band to show up you’d best leave your copy of Catcher in the Rye at home. Makes musicians nervous.
28 February 2012
Vendor of Quack Nostrums
I’ll catch your eye if you should want to look for me.
I want you at the end of my itinerary.
29 February 2012
Gregg Z
I’m attending the Oxford gig, but I have only a 24-hour window to get from Barcelona to London (to Oxford) and back.
Flying into Heathrow Thursday afternoon, then coach to Oxford, dinner and gig.
Leaving Oxford early am on Friday, June 1st, does anyone have an idea if it’s better to go by bus or train? How’s traffic on the bus route at 6-7am?
And is there a “train replacement service” in Oxford?
5 March 2012
Duchess of Westminster
I’d take the “Airline”. The trains are never on time and subject to random cancellations. Most Oxfordians take the “Tube” bus into London. The routes are always busy but if you get away at 6.00am you should be OK.
http://www.oxfordbus.co.uk/main.php?page_id=24
6 March 2012
Neil Pinnell
Bus is bye far the best route, If you wander down from the Cowely road to Queens college (abouts 5 mins walk) you can catch the bus no problems, other then that, it goes from the main bus depot in town and a few other places.
I will be in the Hobgoblin around about 5pm for a few pints of old scruttocks originals if anyone is wanting to meet up.
Cant wait to see them, havent caught up with The Biscuit since 97 at the Royal Festival Hall
12 March 2012
John Burscough
@Neil: Peel’s Meltdown was 1998, if Google serves me right. (Nice room, the RFH. Saw Randy Newman there last month.)
12 March 2012
drab olive
Missing Leeds as parting in Thailand – absolutely pissed off right proper ….anbody heard owt about gigs later in year ?
22 March 2012
drab olive
Gregg Z – As per Les – At the Roadhouse Manchester many moons ended up ver drunk and managed to get on stage at the end of that gig and had a chat with Karl and Nigel …but cant remenber what the or i said – but i got a handshake …vaguely remember telling him i a was from Rotherham and Nigel asked if i knew the Postie from Roth who always shouts God gave us life – unfortnately i do – but he wasnt with us – Thank GOD ………
22 March 2012
John Burscough
Nice little ad, featuring the Airstream guitar, for the Oxford/Leeds dates in this month (June)’s Mojo. (I only read the gig guide anyway.)
20 April 2012
Charles Exford
Things are falling into place very nicely for the Oxford & Leeds gigs. As a freelancer in a seasonal trade I can’t really afford it, but so that I can make it to these two gigs & other near-contemporaneous events, I’ve given up a whole month’s work from mid-May to mid-June
But hurrah! As of today it looks like I might at least get travel & expenses paid for Oxford on the 31st and back to Leeds (after a detour via the legendary Glastonwick festival in Sussex), if I do a bit of Whit Week Malarkey in Oxford meself on gig day.
The reason I’m making it a priority to get to these two gigs is that I am reliably informed there is likely to be litle else in the way of HMHB Roadshow sunshine this summer.
So I suggest you all get Oxford and/or Leeds booked. Should help all of us get through what could otherwise be a thoroughly depressing National Shite Weekend.
Where’s the post-gig lyrics project piss-up in Oxford? We need a bar open till the early hours. Like I say this will kick off a big long weekend.
Leeds is home territory (adopted) so I can be Social Secretary for that one.
26 April 2012
Paul Campbell
Leeds here I come.
26 April 2012
Mark E P
Im bringing a HMHB virgin to Oxford! Hopefully we will find a late night drinking hole as we dont want to return to our real hole which is Swindon!
27 April 2012
Gregg Z
Another (Yank) HMHB virgin here. I’m venturing into Oxford, and near as I can tell, the Hobgoblin looks like a pretty decent option to get a few jars in before the gig. According to various internet reviews (all I have to go by), the place serves real ale and the food is quite good.
Not sure if anyone has something to add/subtract, but since I’m new to your territory, I’m in your hands.
28 April 2012
SIMON P
I shall also be bringing a HMHB virgin to Oxford (well, she thinks she might’ve seen them 20 odd years ago, but it’s a bit of a blur). Like the O2 Oxford, it’s a decent venue. Last time we were there had a splendid meal at the Lebanese restaurant just down the road (La Kesh, I think?).
More of a worry is dragging my 44 year old carcass round all the gigs that have wedged themselves together in that week – Mogwai and Afghan Whigs at the weekend, followed by Coldplay on the Tuesday (look don’t start, it was the missus’ birthday present), and then HMHB on the Thursday, followed by one of the Future of the Left gigs after that. Quite tempted by Manchester for them, because it’s at the Deaf Institute, which is splendid.
1 May 2012
J Buckley
News is reaching me of a new gig right on my door step!!!
*********** GIG CONFIRMATION ************
HALF MAN HALF BISCUIT to play The Tivoli on 7th September 2012
The Tiv is in Buckley, Flintshire, North Wales. Confirmed on their Facebook page. They played here in the very early 90s & it was my first HMHB gig. I can’t believe they’re coming back!
I’ll level with you, I’m besides myself!
4 May 2012
Charles Exford
Yeeees, just when I was thinking I might never get to spend 3 hours in Wrexham station in the early hours of a Saturday morning.
The bookies will surely only be offering short odds on an outing for Gok Wan Ackoes at a venue situated approximately half-way on a slightly circuitous route from Loggerheads to Hope.
900 capacity.
4 May 2012
J Buckley
Hope to Loggerheads you say. A slightly hilly route as well to go via Buckley. Not that would bother Nigel, I hear he tackles Bwch Penbarras reguarly!
I’ll be the one in drab olive, could never wear red!!
4 May 2012
John Burscough
Buckley, I thought, Buckley, Buckley. Unlikely, getting from Lincolnshire to Flintshire on a Friday after work.
But then, hah-hah! Realised I’ll be in Preston that week for t’ Guild, so should be able to make it (possibly with my bro who’s still a HMHB virgin, having cocked up the postponed 53 Degrees gig in 2010).
4 May 2012
Jitsu_g
Another new venue to add to the list
Tickets purchased this morning, now to find a place to stay. Anyone with any local knowledge for pubs / hotels ?
11 May 2012
J Buckley
Yep, its my old home town. Loads of pubs in the town, but no B & B. Best staying in Chester or Mold. Nearest hotel is the St. Davids Park hotel. http://www.village-hotels.co.uk/hotels/chester-st-davids/welcome
Hope some of this helps.
11 May 2012
Neil Pinnell
Hobgoblin in Oxford has now been renamed the Cowely Retreat just in case anyone is looking for it as a meet up place on the night of the gig (its a strange name considering Cowley is actually 4 miles up the road)
15 May 2012
Jude Hawley
A CAUTIONARY TALE
or: Get your Tickets early Folks
I fell asleep on a bus replacement between
Casterbridge and Melchester,
And I saw in a dream…
The End of the New Jerusalem?
*********************************
Christminster is a place of posh, peaceful privilege,
The sort of place that rarely panics;
The sort of place that lost its cutting edge
Sometime before you got into the Manics.
But when Half Man Half Biscuit were coming to town
We learned what life was all about;
The walls of Jericho came a-tumblin’ down
The day the Christminster gig sold out.
At first the madding crowd was far from certain,
But soon they could have no doubt;
A motley crew with croquet mallets went mad in Merton,
The day the Christminster gig sold out
The pervy scholars soon self-flagellated
When the sell-out became common knowledge;
The Dons who had tickets were all rusticated
By the jealous Dean of Rubric college.
The infirm at the Radcliffe sat up in their death beds,
On the High the mime artists started to shout;
The martyrs of St. Giles totally lost their heads,
When the Christmister gig sold out
A baldlng librarian turned bad in the Bodleian
Grouting stonemasons turned to grouchy demolition;
A bad-ass crew looted weapons from the Ashmolean
The day the Christminster gig sold out.
They besieged the ticket agencies, burned them to the ground
Hunted down every ticketless tout;
The Mob turned its wrath upon every Don they found
The day the Christminster gig sold out.
Like Shelley turning atheist and being sent down
Two hundred and one years before,
The desperate mob lost their faith and ran around town
Nailing phD students to every church door.
Tess was looking for tickets with Angel Clare,
But he said she was truly accursed,
Cos everywhere Angel went to ask for a spare
Alec D’Urberville had got there first.
Michael Henchard was there in the pub as well
He’d spent the whole day boozin’.
He slurred as he sweared he had spare tickets to sell
But accidentally sold his wife Susan.
Little Father Time turned up, looking for three,
But “all gone”, “no, none”, no-one had any;
He hung himself from the Greenwood tree
“Because we are too menny.”
Divine retribution? No, for there is no god !
But in ivory towers there must surely be spares!?
If not, they swore there’d be blood on the quad,
In which they slipped, and were crushed on the stairs.
The Trumpet Major played his final Last Post,
Nero got his fiddle back out.
New Jerusalem burning, turning all to toast
The day the Christminster gig sold out.
15 May 2012
Tom
I’ve got a spare ticket for the Leeds show if anyone wants it. I’ll obviously sell it at face value (£19.50 with the booking fees) or I’m open to offers. You can email me at hy10ts@leeds.ac.uk
15 May 2012
John Burscough
Hey Jude – poetastic! Beaucoup de chapeaux.
(Could this be the work of a long-standing member, the country’s second- greatest living Biscuit-related poet?)
16 May 2012
Duchess of Westminster
Most excellent. I shall frame it and hang it up in the kitchen. It will be a fine talking point and an excuse to educate friends in the way of the biscuit.
18 May 2012
GREGG Z
Anyone know if there’s a curfew for the Oxford gig? Couldn’t find on the website. Need to be at Heathrow next morning for a 7am flight out. My thought was to book one of these space-age pod-hotels inside the airport, to get a few hours sleep. Would have to leave Oxford bus station at midnight, putting me at LHR at around 1:45am, I reckon. I’d love to meet up after the gig, but would hate to be on a coach to London at 2am (or later). Not out of the question, though, particularly if anyone has had a bad experience at these Heathrow hotel thingys.
Now that I think on it, since I’ll be on a “coach trip” after midnight, it will officially be the first day of June. Egg sandwiches, perhaps?
19 May 2012
Charles Exford
Hi Gregg, looks like the Oxford Academy have club nights on Fridays & Saturdays so on those nights gigs will end at 10pm, but on a Thursday no worries. All previous form points to either a 9pm KO for the lads and an 11pm finish after extra time or occasionally an 8.30 start with a 10.30 finish. Not sure if there’s a support act on this occasion – if there isn’t, the earlier schedule becomes more likely, especially down sarf with along journey home.
But I bet you wish you could stick around for the Academy’s gigs on the following two nights: a heavy metal Bee Gee’s tribute on the Friday and then Smiths and Joy Division tributes playing simultaneously at separate gigs in their two different venues on the Saturday. Manctastic!
19 May 2012
Charles Exford
Can’t believe I put that apostrophe in. Well, I can in fact, but someone shoot me now.
19 May 2012
Chris The Siteowner
I just assumed some random Heavy Metal Bee Gee was playing a tribute to someone.
19 May 2012
Twitterfacerumourmongershockhorrorinnitterrible?
I notice that the band’s hectic touring schedule is causing nationwide confusion once again, with Gez saying that the Buckley gig has been cancelled, which has presumably come straight from Geoff, but the venue’s website just shifting the gig back a week to the 14th September.
21 May 2012
J Buckley
Very confusing. The official site is now saying that the gig is cancelled but, like you say, The Tiv site is saying its moved back a week. Also, I was talking to a ticket distributor from The Tiv Buckley on Friday & she said the tickets would be back from the printers & on sale from today.
http://www.tivolivenue.com/articles_hmhb.htm
21 May 2012
Chris The Siteowner
Hi JB – maybe a good opportunity to point out, as I do regularly, that the “official site” is nothing of the sort, which is why many people here refer to it as “Gez’s site”. It’s just a site (albeit a fine one) run by a long-standing fan. Gez gets his gig information from Geoff Davies, so it’s accurate as far as the band are concerned!
21 May 2012
Will This Agriculture Insider Mask Do?
It seems to me that Geoff uses Gez as if he was an official outlet, and everyone else is too polite to point out that they wish Gez would put the word “unofficial” up there in big letters ‘cos a few (just a few) of his references are a bit wide of the mark and might be taken as gospel by the lost & gullible.
21 May 2012
Krispo
Do we know for definite if the Buckley gig will go ahead? I want to get tickets for me and 2 mates, but can’t find anything concrete anywhere.
21 May 2012
SIMON P
Is the Hobgoblin/Cowley Retreat the generally accepted meetup point for Oxford? Myself and HMHB virgin Sarah will be down quite early and it would be nice to meet some of the folks who have provided such entertainment on this site …
24 May 2012
TAYLO
The Fifth Biscuit will be bringing her Brass Section for the Leeds gig
25 May 2012
John Byrne
Someone should tell Ticketweb Buckley is cancelled – got my ticket through yesterday.
27 May 2012
Charles Exford
There are pubs in Oxford called both ‘Far from the Madding Crowd’ and ‘Jude the Obscure’, as well as the Lamb and Flag in which some of that last great work was supposedly inspired or even penned.
Although Mrs Exford is unable to get us to central Oxford much before 6pm, it would be rude not to try to visit each and all of these establishments and probably eat at one of them, before kick-off. But we’re also meeting that legendary projectista Gregg Z. at some point, so a visit to the Cowley retreat should also be fitted in.
Any further information on Hardy-related pubs in this nothernmost extension of outer Wessex will be gratefully received and added to the list. We can always have a lunchtime session the next day if there are too menny.
29 May 2012
Malc
I hope they don’t start too early tonight. We probably won’t get there before 8.45 so there’s no rush, guys!
31 May 2012
TAYLO
So Oxford put to bed and next stop Oxford in this Jubilee Mini Tour.
Any chance of NB57 doing some hula hooping Grace Jones style tomorrow night?
6 June 2012
Bede of Jarrow
First Newcastle gig in 8 years announced for the Academy, 15th November.
Not sure Holmfirth Picturedrome, outstanding venue, 7th December, has been officially mentioned in this thread yet either.
11 June 2012
John Burscough
Mmmm, Picturedrome.
11 June 2012
2 Chevrons
Ah, my prayers have been answered. A home fixture on 15 November. Will be spreading the word
12 June 2012
Jitsu-g
Just had a call to refund my outlay on Buckley tickets,I had given up a bit of hope foe my 30 quid, I shall invest in a holmfirth Friday night !
22 June 2012
SIMON P
Holmfirth – oh aye, that’s rather marvellous. Will be there in August for Wedding Present + Cud as well.
22 June 2012
Strumski
Got my tickets booked for Bath today. As someone who is not keen on getting on a plane theres something quite exciting about jumping on a train from Scotland and heading down to merry old England to see HMHB, really looking forward to it. Hopefully bump into some of the folks I met in Leamington, all of whose names I sadly forget!!
4 July 2012
Hagerty F.
Some Call It Godcore has now gone 12 gigs without a song. I wonder why NB57 has decided to neglect this album which contains the gems “Friday Night And The Gates Are Low” and “Even Men With Steel Hearts”
11 July 2012
Drab Olive
Anybody tried getting tickets for Holmfirth off hte website…..what a performance…and it doesnt work
Ring up – far easier
14 July 2012
jitsu_g
just got my tickets for Holmfirth. It will be Biscuits gig number 10, number 1 was Holmfirth 2 yrs ago, My mate had DHSS back in the 80s and i was a fan. 2 years ago I picked up Actung Bono and CSI from Halifx library (good taste) knowing nothing about them other than liking DHSS. My other half (Holfirth will be her 5th ) now comes to expect the phone call at work .. “do you fancy a Thursday night out in Newcastle ?” – her reply ” Biscuits gig ? ”
Big thanks to all the folks I have met from this web site in various boozers around the country for making a Thursday night out something to look forward to ,
Cant make Bath but I will be down the front in Newcastle and Holmfirth in my retro Honved top – come and say hello
20 July 2012
Drab Olive
@ Rubber Face Im on dressing for the Holmfirth Gig in our adopted names…. but is everybody …???? !!
Tricky Ones :
Malcolm of Arimathea
Blood on Chapel Court
Vendor of Quack Nostrums
Tonto’s Expanding Waist Band
Easy Ones:
TWO FAT FEET
Duchess of Westminster
Snooker Ref
Kendo Nagasaki
Pop-Tart Mark
Precocious Mckenzie
Mrs Medlicott
Third Rate Les
31 July 2012
Gregg Z
I’m thinking of hopping back over for the Newcastle gig, and could use a bit of feedback (not the kind that gives the “air of look aren’t we dangerous”). I can do a quickie from Paris on EasyJet, but I know very little about Newcastle City (other than i reckon mid-November is jumper season…) and less about EasyJet (other than they fly to Amsterdam every now and again..) Reliable? Lots of delays/cancellations? (I’m talking here about EasyJet, not Newcastle).
Yes, the Yank is dead crazy..Cheers.
10 August 2012
Vendor of Quack Nostrums
@ Gregg.
Go for it! EasyJet are Britain’s leading budget airline and have an excellent record on safety, price and punctuality. Daily CDG – Newcastle flights use Airbus A319s which are new stock mid-range commercial jets; journey time is about an hour and three quarters. Newcastle airport is great (if I ignore the hour I spent last Thursday trying to get past border control at 2.30am), and transport links are fantastic. A Metro train takes about 30 minutes to reach the city centre and costs about £3. Plenty of hotel accommodation available near the venue.
Finally (I may have to admit a slight bias here), Newcastle is the finest city in England and Northumbria is the second most beautiful part of the country.
10 August 2012
Gregg Z
Anyone have a line on impending gigs? I’m still planning on a trip over for the Newcastle thingy, but flights are prohibitive at that time of the year (Why can’t a body get from NYC to London for under $800?). Would love to have a fall-back plan of January/February, when air travel is a bit cheaper. Maybe I’m living in a fool’s paradise…
18 August 2012
BrumBiscuit
Over a week off yet, but can anyone in the know recommend a decent Bath boozer? We’re staying in the Travelodge, so fairly central would be good.
First gig for me since Bilston, so well upfrit!
12 September 2012
Steve Malkmus
@BrumBiscuit I plan to get average-to-mashed at the salamander, which is pretty near the Komedia I think, so central. I don’t really know Bath.
16 September 2012
Tony Monopoly
I’m unexpectedly unable to make the Bath gig, so have a ticket going spare. Happy to pass it one to someone here – I’m not looking for anything for it. It’s just an e-ticket, so if anyone wants it and is willing to post an email address below, they’re very welcome to it and I’ll send it on.
17 September 2012
Android, Eyes Rolling
Hometown gig for me. Near to Salamander you have the Raven, which is also very nice and real ale-y. The Old Green Tree in Green Street is very good too, though quite small. Coeur de lion is Bath’s smallest pub – there’s more table space on the street outside than there is inside. The Westgate is literally just up the road from the venue and has improved on what it used to be – now has a very nice selection of ales and ciders.
I’m going straight from work though, and don’t want to get too hammered. May need to break the habit of a lunchtime and buy some food from one of these gastropubs.
17 September 2012
BrumBiscuit
Plenty to choose from there, ta. Convenience may throw the dice in the Westgate’s favour. Does it do food?
17 September 2012
Third Rate Les
Is it near the station? I have to get the 22:47 and fear I’ll end up doing a Mars Ultras.
17 September 2012
Phyllis Triggs
Can anyone local to Bath suggest the best place to park as I’m driving down in the hope of picking up some rhubarb on the way.
18 September 2012
Pap-Tort Mark
Plenty of Blue Badge places a short walk from the venue, Phyllis. A walk in hell is a small price to pay on the day you’re finally accounted for.
18 September 2012
Phyllis Triggs
It’s certainly worth considering if it means avoiding a walk in Bath.
18 September 2012
Nigel Scott
T R L
It’s probably 10 minutes
Haven’t got a ticket yet – if I make a late decision to go, there might be two of us running for that train!
Hope it’s one of their “on time” gigs
18 September 2012
Android, Eyes Rolling
@ 348
Yes, though I’ve not eaten there. This link advertises some nice looking food:
http://gkpubs.co.uk/pubs-in-bath/westgate-pub/
I accept no responsibility if on the day they only offer a bag of out of date pork scratchings and a scotch egg.
@ Phyllis Triggs – there are several pay and display car parks in the area, but they’re not cheap. The one in Kingsmead Square is only two minutes from the venue. It’s maximum stay 4 hours but it goes off the clock at ten, so if you park any time after six you can stay till the end of the evening.
Usual disclaimers apply…
18 September 2012
phyllis triggs
Android
Won’t be there till 7ish so will go for that. Many thanks.
19 September 2012
BrumBiscuit
Ta for all the boozer tips. I shall not be eating there as I have found a link to Seafoods chippie (another “Best in England” one), that I shall stodge up in before chipping (sorry) away at my weekly units allowance.
19 September 2012
BrumBiscuit
Anyone want to have a sweepstake on the price of Pringles? I’m going for £1.85.
19 September 2012
Third Rate Les
£2.24
19 September 2012
John Burscough
£2.05.
19 September 2012
MISTER TUBBS
if the pringles were bought while the Olympics were on, they’ve got to be at least a fiver
19 September 2012
Android, Eyes Rolling
Brum – Seafoods is a decent takeaway, but surely chip shops that encourage eating on the premises are more to be feared than embraced. Harry Ramsden’s have a lot to answer for.
19 September 2012
SIMON P
@Tony Monopoly – that would be superb, just made a late decision to go. eliminator.junior@gmail.com
20 September 2012
Tony Monopoly
Simon P – YHM.
20 September 2012
BrumBiscuit
@Android: I was assuming it was a take away. Never keen meself on eating in at a chippie. Just wrong! We’re going to be at The Raven at 7.30 in regalia.
20 September 2012
Robin Yachts
Just spoken to Komedia. Support act will be on stage between 8 and 8.30, although no confirmation as to who they are (TBA? Perhaps they’ll be particularly glib?). HMHB scheduled to be on stage at 9.
20 September 2012
phyllis triggs
Pringles – £3.10 – It’s a spa town don’t you know.
@ Robin Yachts – Just went on the website to print directions and saw Support TBA. You beat me to it.
20 September 2012
SIMON P
Thanks to the wonderful Tony M for the ticket – just leaving now for a saunter through the Cotswolds.
Pringles? £1.88
20 September 2012
Android, Eyes Rolling
Brum – Seafoods is a takeaway, but one of those pretentious ones that also put in tables for those who want to eat with a knife and fork, in the full glare of the passing crowds. Always found the place a bit odd as it would shut at 10.30 every night, including weekends, which you’d think would not be the best business model for a city centre chip shop.
20 September 2012
Exxo
Have a good ‘un folks. For those of us at funerals today and festivals tomorrow, please review early and review often.
20 September 2012
Mark C
Got Newcastle tickets a couple of weeks ago and have spent the time since arranging all sorts of very important meetings at our office round those parts. Just had it confirmed today that the company is paying my travel and accommodation for the week of the gig.
Expenses included so I should be up for something delightful in the Clayton Street Chipper round the corner after the gig,
It’s been a while (Cambridge 2010) so really really really unfeasibly excited!
21 September 2012
BrumBiscuit
1p out on the Pringles, but that won me a tenner from my mates. Bath seems a good place for a session.
21 September 2012
John Burscough
Mmmm, Sheffield Lomas Hall 8th Feb 2013.
2 October 2012
Jitsu_g
The venue (village hall) for the gig announced in Feb next year seems somewhat interesting. And on a Friday too !
4 October 2012
SIMON P
Capacity 400 – http://www.lomashall.s5.com
16 October 2012
BrumBiscuit
Yay! They’re playing the Robin2, Bilston on 23/5/12! I just need them to confirm the Assembly in Leamington, 2 miles away, and I’ll be well happy.
27 October 2012
BrumBiscuit
23/5/13!
27 October 2012
2chevrons
Looks like I have a spare ticket for Newcastle if anybody is interested.
29 October 2012
GeordiePaul
Hi 2CHEVRONS, I’m going but I havent got my ticket yet so I am interested.
1 November 2012
GeordiePaul
An arrangement has been made..
1 November 2012
Garciasfinger
2 tickets for Thursday available due to non football injury. Buy one face value and you can have the other one free.
11 November 2012
Krispo
Hey guys, me and 2 mates are coming to Holmfirth from Liverpool next month. Any thoughts on where is good to stay around there?
14 November 2012
John Burscough
@Jitsu_G: You in Toon tomorrow night?
14 November 2012
Jitsu_g
Certainly am, and bringing the other half too. Not worked out a pre gig pub yet though. We are getting there early afternoon so happy if anyone has got any pre gig boozer suggestions
14 November 2012
argieuk
The Bodega a little further up Westgate Road is a decent place for a pint
14 November 2012
vendor of quack nostrums
Tilley’ bar (opposite the venue), Bodega (up the Westgate Road), Toon Waal and The Forth (Pink Lane) are all within a minutes walk of the O2 and are all worth a visit. No doubt the Vendoress and I will pitch up to one of those at some point. You’ll not be surprised to learn that the beer in the venue is shite and expensive, so I’m assuming a 9 o’clock kick off. Into the ground at about 1/4 to.
14 November 2012
Jitsu_g
Based on various other o2 venues I was fully expecting to be avoiding the beer in there. I shall check out all of the above but as bodega has had two independent recommendations I shall definitely be giving that a whirl. I’ll be in the retro Honved top as per usual.
15 November 2012
John Burscough
Three recommendations now, Bodega it is then. It’ll no doubt be a bit dark, so I’ll wear my Hi-Vis jacket. (I’ll be popping into Travelling Man in the afternoon for a Fiona Staples/Richard Starkings comic book signing, part of the Leeds Thought Bubble convention. Organised by my son, as it happens.)
15 November 2012
Ben
Yay ! Been looking forward to today for some time ! I’m getting queried in the office about my Dukla Prague Away Kit but hey ho – small price to pay.
15 November 2012
Charles Exford
Just posting on the offchance that anybody’s got a late night lift back to W. Yorks after the gig? Just one way. Will gladly give petrol money.
I’ve been a bit complacent about this one and just assumed that I could get out of my commitments in Leeds tomorrow morning, but alas, I can’t really.
15 November 2012
Ben
So are we set on the Bodega?
Here’s the map of the locality and as can be seen it’s bloody close to the Academy.
15 November 2012
Ben
And it’s a nice enough pub
15 November 2012
jitsu_g
From the academy Twitter kick off tonight is 830
15 November 2012
Charles Exford
What a great big silly old Hector I am. If I’d just checked the stage time I could have been on the 10.44 train back without missing a note.
Ah well only 3 weeks till Holmfirth.
15 November 2012
BrumBiscuit
Yebbut, the burning question is how much were the Pringles?
15 November 2012
vendor of quack nostrums
No tfhgp. No pringles.
16 November 2012
vendor of quack nostrums
Shite day,
Shite week,
Shite fortnight.
Help, I need somebody, Help, not just anybody.
Biccies gig…….Perspective………Even keel.
16 November 2012
Ben
Oh Arse – I put my review in the reviews bit and thought I was first – Bah !!!!
Brilliant gig – loved Papworth General in the current climate.
Please God I hope they come back sooner next time. Thanks to the guys around who were brilliant. Especially the one who was so embarrased about grabbing my wife’s “titty” when she slipped while dancing
16 November 2012
Eric Olthwaite
Krispo (Letter 381) – there is a big pub with rooms called the Old Bridge Hotel right next door to the venue (so close that auditorium fire exit opens onto the pub car park – a few years back the doors were open and we listened to the HMHB soundcheck in the pub’s beer garden). It’s a half-decent pub (not the best in Holmfirth though) but I have no idea what it’s like as a hotel. Failing that, I can recommend Durker Roods Hotel. Me and Mrs Olthwaite had our wedding reception there and stayed afterwards and it’s spot on. About four miles from the venue mind, so a taxi is required if you’re avoiding post-gig driving. Trivia – before it was a hotel it was David Brown’s house (David Brown being the DB of Aston Martin fame).
21 November 2012
Chris The Siteowner
O2 ABC Glasgow gig announced for June 2013…
26 November 2012
Pail Merk
Deep joy.
Just learned about the O2 gig in my home city. Decent venue, central location and a rare way to finish a Friday.
A long weekend, mum’s home cooking and the chance to cheer on the glorious Glasgow Tigers speedway team on the Sunday. (HMHB trivia: Ivan Mauger has guested for the Stripes).
26 November 2012
Martin A
Pail Merk: I’d have thought Galashiels was your home town based on your name
27 November 2012
Pail Merk
Martin A: Weegies move in mysterious ways. There is much missionary work to be done.
27 November 2012
That Swan
Gala is beyond redemption.
(I’m a Soutar btw)
29 November 2012
Martin A
Having worked in Selkirk, I’m surprised someone could say that about Gala. Beats Hawick at least.
30 November 2012
Charles Exford
Bill McLaren used to make all those borders placenames sound so glamorous and so I thought probably worth ‘checking out’ one day. It’s always great to cross more places off the list though.
30 November 2012
Charles Exford
Anyway, talking of checking them out, catch them on tour at STOCKTON ARTS CENTRE 8th June.
I might be treating that one as my 50th birthday gig and who knows whether other participants may be doing similar!
30 November 2012
Chris The Siteowner
For a moment I thought you may have meant me, and then I realised you meant someone much more important *NB57* *ahem*.
But I might make it my 50th birthday gig too, anyway. In fact, we could restrict entrance to people having 50th birthdays…
30 November 2012
Charles Exford
Funnily enough I did mean you Chris
, and if Neil is the same age as us & NB57 it might be his 50th birthday tour too, but that date would be a good few weeks early for the lyricist’s own half-century.
30 November 2012
That Swan
Borders towns may not be glamorous, but are steeped in a unique and bloody history that is still meticulously and reverently commemorated every year in all three of the towns mentioned in their respective Common Ridings. If you ever get a chance to be involved in any of these, I promise it is something you will never forget.
30 November 2012
DIGGLER
Looking at the forecast for later this week, we could have identical weather to when they last played in Holmfirth.
Presuming “The Nook” over the road will be one of the pre-gig meeting places?
3 December 2012
Charles Exford
My review in the gig thread from 2 years ago reminds me that it had actually got too cold for snow then, which might not be the case this week. Re-reading that review makes me hungry for good chips, thirsty for something from the likes of the Elland Brewery and sniffy for piney smells. It also makes me wish that word association with the name of the Holmfirth chippy, The Hollowgate Fisheries, hadn’t made me keep alluding to TS fucking Eliot.
3 December 2012
Charles Exford
Haha, was thinking it was a Thursday night gig. Right you are Diggler, temperatures set to plummet on Friday….
3 December 2012
DIGGLER
A635 Holmfirth Road from Greenfield is predictably closed, but there’s always another way…
7 December 2012
Krispo
We’re going in a campervan, any thoughts on where will be good to park up for the night?
7 December 2012
DIGGLER
Holme Valley Camping and Caravan Park..
01484 665819 .
Our address is:
Holme Valley Camping and Caravan Park,
Thongsbridge,
Holmfirth,
West Yorkshire,
HD9 7TD
7 December 2012
M50455
BBC Travel news reporting that the A6024 Holme Moss Road is closed between the A635 Greenfield Road junction in Holmfirth and the A628 Woodhead Pass junction in High Peak, because of snow.
The same site is showing the A635 as open – any update Diggler?
7 December 2012
M50455
And the snow warning for the A6024 has gone off the BBC at 11:35 – hopefully it has all melted.
- Sorry for any confusion..
7 December 2012
DIGGLER
Yes the road is open again
7 December 2012
la
We’re in Holmfirth now. Where is everyone drinking? I’m with some bell with a ginger afro…
7 December 2012
jitsu_g
The nook.
7 December 2012
la
as are we. cheers pal
7 December 2012
Simon
When you’re in Matlock Bath…
23 December 2012
Iguana Andy
Anyone got a spare ticket for the Sheffield gig? Just got my shit together and found the boat has been missed, mightily pissed off, any help appreciated.
12 January 2013
John Burscough
Looks like there’s demand for badminton courts at t’ Lomas Hall. Bring your racquets and we can have a pre-gig knock-up. (Or pretend that we’re Kendo Nagasaki.)
20 January 2013
Chris The Siteowner
No wonder the gig sold out so quickly. The venue can apparently accommodate 400, but if they’ve sold that many tickets, I assume latecomers will have to watch from the Green Room or the car park.
20 January 2013
BrumBiscuit
Can anyone recommend any accommodation in Matlock Bath? Googling only throws up Matlock results and I can’t be arsed walking after a gig…
21 January 2013
Warden Hodges
Interestingly, the Matlock gig is on the eve of what could be a TRFC promotion party.
21 January 2013
Paul F
I’m not overly superstitious, but really Warden Hodges…
21 January 2013
Charles Exford
As well as the badminton possibilities, we note via John’s link that this is probably the nearest ever HMHB venue to both a full-size park football pitch (goalmouth 20 yards away) and a graveyard (roughly 25 yards away from venue entrance).
it’ll be pitch dark but we’re bringing a ball. And expecting to get worms in our shoes.
Let’s have a re-enactment. Dukla Prague kits against the rest.
22 January 2013
John Burscough
The Rose and Crown is also 100 yards down the road (unless it’s been renamed the Bannister and Shamrock by then).
23 January 2013
Charles Exford
Thinking about it I do have a full team set of hi-vis bibs upstairs, so all we need for the footy is a halogen lamp.
23 January 2013
Drab Olive
Tickets Tickets Tickets …tried every avenue and proper snookered …..any spares going anywhere plss….
25 January 2013
Anchorman
Forgot to pull my finger out and get any tickets? Anyone got one for sale? There will be a few pints in it for you too
31 January 2013
SleeplessSoul
Anyone know what time doors are open on Friday at Lomas Hall?
5 February 2013
Jitsu_g
Doors are 6.30 according to ticket, which seems a tad early to me
5 February 2013
John Burscough
Any word on support? (Tried ringing the Hall, but I only got a nice lady from the Stannington Under-Fives who knew nothing about it.)
6 February 2013
Baldy Davitt
Says doors open at 7.30 for Lomas Hall gig on my hometown gig ticket. Lots of pubs within a short walk , Rose and Crown, Crown and Glove and The Peacock. The Hare and Hounds opposite is now sadly closed though.
No word on support either, the good people of the Lomas Hall seem blissfully unaware of it all….
6 February 2013
Charles Exford
TOMORROW’S GIG HAS BEEN CANCELLED due to illness. Official.
7 February 2013
Paddy
Noooooo. Depressed beyond tablets.
7 February 2013
Baldy Davitt
Babar , now I’LL have to take the kids swimming!!!! Time for a haliborange OD
7 February 2013
mick bates
Hi All, Geoff has just contacted me so I can put it on the http://www.probe-plus.co.uk site and could I get in touch with everyone I know, The gig will be re-arranged in 2 weeks time, I will get in touch later with a firm date; Geoff is at a funeral so I’m trying as hard as poss.
7 February 2013
Steve Molyneux
Please don’t re-arrange this for the 22nd. I’ve already got another gig to go to that night.
7 February 2013
Jitsu_g
Just had an email from ticket booking agent that it has been rearranged for 22nd Feb – same place
7 February 2013
mick bates
22nd of FEB is Correct, Same Place. Just been confirmed
7 February 2013
Loins 71
Oh no. I’ll be in chichester. Anybody want 2 tickets?
7 February 2013
Loins 71
I guess my evening of swing has been cancelled
7 February 2013
STRINGY BOB
Me too. Disaster!
7 February 2013
Devvvine
Hey, i’m looking for a ticket if anyone wants to sell one
7 February 2013
Loins 71
I’ve got 2 if you want them. Loins71@hotmail.com
7 February 2013
Dickie Davies Eyes
Can’t make the re-arranged date so I’ll reallocate my ticket via Wegottickets.com if anyone wants it. hdavies1927@yahoo.co.uk
I’ll need your name, email and postcode.
7 February 2013
Spike
Same here,1 ticket going spare to be reallocated
7 February 2013
Dickie Davies Eyes
Ticket gone now.
7 February 2013
Lee
Will the tickets purchased through weve got tickets still stand and to be collected on the night, or will we have to rebook them/ and get a refund for all?
7 February 2013
Matt
I won an ebay auction for a ticket. Can’t go to new date. I paid £33 plus £5.50 postage. If anyone can match this then the ticket is yours and I won’t add additional postage. Hate to ask this price as I know it is much more than face value, but that’s what I paid and I will include the proof in the sale. Any takers please email me.
millingtoncrablane@yahoo.co.uk
7 February 2013
mick bates
Thick end of 40 nicker!! I think you’re going to struggle there mate.
7 February 2013
Mal Practice
You’ve got to have a touch of shuddering admiration for ebay convincing people to say they’ve ‘won’ stuff. The Reader’s Digest must look on in awe. It even beats ‘playing the lottery’ as a bit of Newspeak.
Anyway good luck.
7 February 2013
Loins 71
If you want an ebay ticket experience try searching for wilko johnson tickets. You wouldn’t believe how many ghouls are cashing in on the poor bloke’s terminal illness
8 February 2013
LesMcQueen
@LOINS71 – Re. Wilko. Too true. Disgusting. Seen tickets for sale at £170 plus, whilst proper fans can’t get a look in.
8 February 2013
John Burscough
If you’ve received the e-mails, then you know somebody (NB57)’s got a cough. Hope he’s better soon.
I hope no-one will be offended if I admit it’s ruined my weekend. (Friday night and I just love complaining, and no I haven’t got anything better to do.)
8 February 2013
John Byrne
Spike – how do I contact you about that ticket?
Lee – tickets through wegottickets will still be collectable as usual on the night.
8 February 2013
Paddy
Surely there must be an Ombudsman for this situation?
8 February 2013
Charles Exford
With all due sympathy for all those who can’t make it, but surely Maud & I can’t be the only ones delighted by the change in date? We immediately thought of about six reasons why the 22nd was better for us. And now I’ve started to get a cough myself so that’s seven! I’m off to see fine old troubadour Andy White in Otley tonight instead. He played in Stroud last night and Cropredy tomorrow, so for the sheer geographical ineptitude of his tour planning alone, he deserves my support.
8 February 2013
Richard Drabble
I’ve 2 tickets for Sheffield and can’t make the revised date. If anyone wants them please email me at radrabble@hotmail.co.uk
Free to a good home.
Cheers
8 February 2013
CaznGiles
Gutted… 140 mile round trip to view a poster on the door of a village hall
Hey ho – wish I’d found this earlier. Also wish I hadn’t been so busy at work I didn’t check my emails… won’t make that mistake again but we weren’t the only ones – met folks from Newcastle & Manchester in the car park! See y’all in a fortnight – keep fingers crossed it doesn’t snow – that place is up a really steep hill…
8 February 2013
Spike
Mine’s gone now…gutted I can’t go
9 February 2013
Spike
Everywhere in Sheffield is on a bl**dy hill
:-) 
9 February 2013
FCUM All
Thanks for the email about available tickets.
Just got one, 44 remaining now.
11 February 2013
The Jannie
There’s one ticket less now.
The hill’s not only steep it’s farking rough!
12 February 2013
Age-old Eel
Thank god for viruses!
Got a ticket for the rematch…my life coach said I should post here to tell everyone….I’ve……………….
…….
…….
…….
Been in a mental hospital, but I don’t want to talk about it…
16 February 2013
Iguana Andy
Have to say I agree completely, all set for Friday, ticket missed tragedy now averted and on for Matlock Bath and Stockton too – result!
Oh and BRUMBISCUIT: Princess Victoria (PV) will be about the closest B&B to the Matlock Bath gig, followed by the Temple Hotel. Probably not the cheapest but the PV is a. A pub and b. over the road from the gig.
16 February 2013
Loins71
Is there any reason why the cambridge gig isn’t advertised on the hmhb website? I’ve received tickets but daren’t book a hotel in case there’s a chance it’s not happening. (tight yorkshireman)
21 February 2013
Chris The Siteowner
The “hmhb website” is just a fan site, nothing to do with the band, and if Gez – who runs it – is indisposed, it doesn’t get updated, which is why he points people here. The Cambridge gig is definitely happening, and I can’t wait, as it’s about 500m from my house. There’s a Travelodge next door, by the way. You might also want to be thinking about taking the day off, because you may well want to be in this part of the world the night before too. But that news is still under wraps.
21 February 2013
BrumBiscuit
The Travelodge, bang opposite The Junction, has rooms for £32 as I write (21/2). Apart from The Robin2 that has its own rooms, I don’t know of any venue with more convenient accommodation!
(And we have a Nando’s next door too. Don’t forget the Nando’s! – Ed)
21 February 2013
BrumBiscuit
And The Earl of Derby a stone’s throw away. Don’t forget TEoD!
I just realised that this thread has come full circle. The very first post was about the March 2010 Junction gig. I hope the weather’s better!
21 February 2013
Exxo
Stuff yer Travelodge. My accommodation might be a couple of miles away and built a mere eight centuries earlier, but what a fine pub crawl that 2-mile walk is.
21 February 2013
Loins71
Thankyou for your help everyone. Booked in the travelodge wed and thurs night on your recommendation. Looking forward to finding out why I’ve been encouraged to splash out another £35…
21 February 2013
Drab Olive
Boozer Tommrow folks – Whats the general concensus – Not sure about Crown and Cushion….
And lets pray the snow doesnt come bad as Stannington is like Everest ?!
21 February 2013
Drab Olive
Apparently Crown n Glove is ok – real ale( 1966 ) n all that and minnies / rose and crown ( county basoon etc etc ) is ok for jukebox pool table etc …
be a couple of us in both with me borussia muchengladbach top on from about 5 if anybody is meeting early
lee 07983487536
22 February 2013
Drab Olive
As you can tell from my postings im like a dog with 2 willies…seen biscuit 20 times or so but not seen em for over 2 years probably longer so if you see a pancake with a borussia top on going mental and singing me head off pls accept my apologies
cmon LOMAS HALL
ps… its a proper ‘ in church hall if wet ‘ venue …but it may be a classic …im getting that feeling in my boneser seen
ps…has anybody ever seen Nigel do Jan 6th epiphany …i so wish he would play it
22 February 2013
Jitsu_g
I’m designated driver tomorrow but will have 2 thirsty passengers so will be having a few pre match shandies.
I have heard lots of talk of Sheffield being hilly so I am interested to see how it compares to the big hill I live on in Bradford.
Here’s hoping it is all a snow/ice/trouble free journey for everyone tomorrow.
See you all down the front, I’ll be the sober (for a change) fat bloke in the retro honved top.
22 February 2013
John Burscough
I’m DD too tonight, heading over straight from work.Woo-hoo! (Hi-Vis jacket.)
22 February 2013
BrumBiscuit
@Exxo: after The Earl of Derby last time, we got into the crawl from hell. I already knew The Flying Pig and that was OK, but there was a boozer almost next door that was most bizarrely shite! It all went downhill after that, culminating in missing the first few songs due to an 8.30 start. Any pointers as to a decent crawl, albeit one 4+ months away, would be helpful. Would The Free Press be on the list?
22 February 2013
Chris The Siteowner
The boozer next door was The Osbourne Arms, which was being run down to give the owners more chance of getting permission to demolish it, which they have done. However, they’re meeting more resistance in their efforts to demolish the Flying Pig too, which is a decent pub and needs support. That and the Earl of Derby are the only two pubs between the railway station and the gig venue, but if you’re coming from the city (like Exxo) and don’t mind taking the long way round (via Mill Road), my recommended pub walk from the city would be the Free Press, the Cambridge Blue (15 mins walk), the Kingston Arms (2 minutes), the Flying Pig (15 minutes), finishing at the Earl of Derby (5 minutes). The first four are amongst the best Cambridge has to offer. All are on Google Maps.
22 February 2013
Exxo
I just checked with Sir Geoffrey at Probe Towers. The support (Lovecraft) are on just after 8 pm and HMHB at about 8.45 tonight. I think he said no later than 8.45. Nigel’s apparently much better, probably not 100% voice-wise, but adopting a Shackletonian resolve to get everyone through safely.
22 February 2013
John Burscough
Brilliant, thanks Exxo – we won’t break our necks trying to get up the hills before 8 then. Always best to go to the source.
If Nigel’s less than 100% that’s probably a few of the more yodelly songs that can be crossed off the potential setlist.
(In operatic circles this might have led to a call to the audience for anyone who knows the repertoire, followed by an unseemly scramble/stage invasion.)
22 February 2013
jitsu_g
Liking the new page design, especially when reading it on my phone. I have noticed a lack of the Matlock Bath gig on lists of up coming shows. Is this an oversight or is there something you should be telling us! (D’oh! – Ed)
26 February 2013
Pete aphid
Hello everyone,
Never posted on here before, but since I saw HMHB last week in Sheffield – for the first time in 27 odd years – I thought I’d say hello. I know it’s the wrong way round, but I can get excited about future gigs from this point on… I was thinking of leaving it less than a quarter century this time, so the question is: Cambridge or Stowmarket? Like the siteowner himself, I live in Cambridge, so I know what a rubbish venue the Junction is, and Stowmarket will have lots of fen charm, no doubt. I think I’m making my mind up as I write. Great site, by the way!
26 February 2013
Chris The Siteowner
Hi Pete – welcome! I’d have to politely disagree about the Cambridge Junction – I think it’s a pretty decent venue, TBH. Nobody knows what the Stowmarket venue is going to be like, but it looks interesting enough. Go on; do both!
26 February 2013
Chris The Siteowner
WeGotTickets is supposed to be the only ticket outlet for Stowmarket in July, and they’re currently saying they only have 18 tickets left. I wonder if the gig is nearly sold out already?
6 March 2013
Dr Desperate
Quite possibly. It’s a 220-capacity venue (easily the smallest within the past few years).
6 March 2013
EMERGING FROM GORSE
Thought I’d throw this one open to Joe Public and the General Consensus……..
For several months now my little lad, who’s 4 and a half years old, has been going absolutely nuts over M-6-ster and Whit Week Malarkey. I’ve not yet been able to convince him that any other HMHB tracks are worth listening to, but you know what they’re like at that age. Besides, it’s a bloody good start, and there’s something immensely satisfying and pride-inducing about hearing your offspring belting out such lines as “just up and leave” and “Ivan Mauger robbed my car”.
Anyway, point is, is it too early to take him along to his first gig at Cambridge Junction? Obviously it’ll finish way past his (and my) bedtime and if they don’t play either of the aforementioned tracks I’ll be buggered, but you’ve got to get them started sometime, haven’t you?
11 March 2013
BrumBiscuit
I don’t know where else to put this, but has anyone already spotted that they’re “in concert” on Gideon Coe’s show tonight? 21.00 – 00.00.
13 March 2013
CHRIS THE SITEOWNER
The live recordings on 6Music were from John Peel’s Meltdown Festival, London, 1998.
Incorrectly back-announced by Gideon Coe, but the songs were “Shropshire Lad”, “Deep House”, “Runningorder…” and “Bad Review”.
All have been knocking around for a while but I’ve stuck the set on YouTube here. A couple of other songs from the same gig have been on YouTube for a while.
14 March 2013
Chris The Siteowner
Anyone who was curious to just how small the Stowmarket gig venue is (or who wondered why it sold out so quickly) might like to look at this photo and this one.
25 March 2013
John Byrne
Anyone got a spare for Stowmarket?
29 March 2013
DRAB OLIVE
Digs in Matlock Bath anybody …im having no luck whatsoever…and looking like driving …which is a disaster option ??
10 April 2013
Dr Desperate
The Boathouse Hotel, a mile up Dale Rd towards Matlock, currently has 1 room left: £70 for 1 person, £85 for 2 B&B for the night.
10 April 2013
Scally
We got a room at Alison House £90 for a double
13 April 2013
DRAB OLIVE
Nice one Scally…Boathouse now gone …but somehow just got a single at Willersley Castle ( near Alison House ) so just over a mile away ….worth the walk at that price though and ready for a proper session !
Dont forget your torch for the walk !
18 April 2013
DRAB OLIVE
And the rate was only £30 – Think they got that one wrong but hey ho confirmed now so their problem !!
Anybody else staying there ? If so lets join up for the walk down ?
18 April 2013
cyclops
there’s no bog roll for £30
19 April 2013
dEACON IN MISGUIDED TROUSERS
I’ve got a spare for the Bilston gig if anyone needs it.
22 April 2013
BrumBiscuit
@Deacon. If Chris can put us in touch, I may be upfrit…
22 April 2013
gargoyle 100
Anyone experienced this ticketless system like I had to use online for Matlock Bath Pav? Feels wierd not actually having a ticket in my hand.
22 April 2013
Scally
Echo and the Bunnymen at the cavern was something similar I think
23 April 2013
dr desperate
Are you driving round with thousands in the bank, @G100?
23 April 2013
Eric Olthwaite
@Gargoyle 100 The Lomas Hall the other month was ticketless – you’re right, it is weird. We just had to give our names at the door and they ticked us off a list; I obviously stood there worried that my name might not be on it (it was).
23 April 2013
dr desperate
Fairly common experience these days, the non-ticket ticketing method. You can print off the email confirmation with the booking reference number on it, if you want to take proof of payment. (I believe some people can find these on their telephones, but I’ve never had the knack, no matter how hard I stare at the bakelite.)
23 April 2013
Jitsu_g
There was a similar ticketless system used at Holmfirth last year. Only slight draw back is that if you have bought more than one ticket everyone has to turn up together to get in. Apart from that they seem to work.
I have got my handy 16 digit code written on a scrap of paper in preparation for Friday night !
23 April 2013
Gargoyle 100
Ok, thanks it’s reassuring to hear that its a well understood system.
23 April 2013
john downing
I have tickets for cambridge junction and John peel centre, that I can no longer attend. I have just 1 ticket for each event. The junction is a physical ticket the other is we got tickets email that can be reallocated. My son has his graduation in Edinburgh so I need to be there. I will be at Matlock Bath on Friday.
Ed’s note: email me if you’re interested and I’ll forward John your contact details
23 April 2013
Exxo
Good to see that Matlock has sold out.
Mrs Exford’s mum told me she heard Gideon Coe mentioning the gig in his breakfast time slot, last Friday morning.
24 April 2013
Scally
I take it the Matlock venue is licenced?
25 April 2013
MaTE OF THE BLOKE
I know its ridiculously late in the day but due to a cancellation I have a spare ticket for the Matlock Bath gig. There’s a b&b booking for 1 up for grabs too in Matlock for the night, if you don’t mind sharing a twin room- 20 quid for the ticket or £60 with the room as well. I’m bluetiger at hotmail dot co dot uk if you’re the drop-everything sort.
25 April 2013
Graeme Williams
Looking forward to Matlock Bath; the Pavillion is in a sad state of disrepair from what it was in its heyday but now gigs and events are being held once more as a group are trying to restore it, oh and best pint for those wanting a beer beforehand is the Princess Victoria pub just down the road… Not the pub opposite
26 April 2013
John “Shorts” Waters
Wondering how to get to Bilston and where to stay – any suggestions?
26 April 2013
Age-old Eel
Missed the pre- , but the Princess Victoria was the place for the after party, that’s for sure. Still regretting not asking the singer if he knew Vatican Broadside…
27 April 2013
BrumBiscuit
@John “Shorts” Waters
I will be staying in the Wolvo Central Travelodge. It’s not that close to the actual gig, but it’s £26 for the room for the evening in question. I’ll be taking the Metro to Bilston from Wolvo – a 10-15-min journey.
The Robin2 does B&B and so does the Olde White Rose – a proper real ale pub. Both are either at the venue, or a stone’s throw away, but they ain’t cheap.
I shall be drinking and eating at the Olde White Rose that night IF they get their act together and have more than one very put-upon barmaid on duty. If not, it’s the Trumpet; a well-known jazz haunt that sells the very good local ale – Holdens. The Olde White Rose’s carvery is a real steal. It must be good – take a look at the size of the chef!!!
27 April 2013
BrumBiscuit
Being a CAMRA Man, I did recommend the Olde White Rose and The Trumpet, both bostin’ boozers in Bilston. However, there is a Wetherspoons in the High Street and I may be tempted to take my 50p-off vouchers along there. Then again, The Great Western, near Wolvo station is also a very good Holdens’ joint and sells Bathams – Black Country’s finest, IMHO.
I got my ticket this week & my latest t-shirt has just arrived. Rather good it is too, if I say so myself. The Harry Quinn project has temporarily stuttered to a halt, but should be ready in time for Cambridge.
It’s nearly three years since Deano strutted on stage in Bilston. I wonder if Ian “Sludge” Lees can be dragged along, seeing as he’s a sort-of local. On second thoughts, I hope not…
11 May 2013
Dr Desperate
Last time they played Bilston it was CAMRA night at the OWR. After waiting half an hour to get served Jitsu G + I despaired of ever tasting the hops and repaired to the Wetherspoons (The Sir Henry Newbolt), which is OK.
Play up! play up! and play the game!
12 May 2013
jitsu_g
I shall be paying the OWR another visit next week but as I have got an afternoon to kill in Bilston I’ll be there before the hordes descend. The fishpond in Matlock bath the other week was struggling to keep up with demand pre gig. Perhaps an early warning message can be sent to these understaffed boozers warning them of what is to come
18 May 2013
BrumBiscuit
@Jitsu_G
I’ll be at a loose end too on Thursday. TBH, Bilston probably will allow you to kill 5 minutes, so we will possibly/probably go to the Great Western near Wolvo Station first, then head on down to Bilston on the metro – <10 mins away.
The OWR has a Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Olde-White-Rose/257364700974737?ref=ts&fref=ts&rf=111393028922436 so I shall also remind them that hordes will be descending on Thursday.
18 May 2013
John “Shorts” Waters
Hope to see many of you in Bilston (may have a spare ticket – depends how bad I’ve screwed up :~
By the way has anyone tried compiling a list of places in Biscuits songs that I can visit – probably something to do rather than write on the soles of my slipper with a biro
18 May 2013
John “Shorts” Waters
The Old White Rose sounds okay(ish) but I’m not English so may need directions – due to arrive in Wolver 16:30, shave, shower, etc and put my Four Lads Who Shook The Wirral shirt on and should be there for food 7ish
See anyone who’s there there, otherwise I wont
18 May 2013
Jitsu_g
@ brumbiscuit
I am getting into town ealy afternoon and staying at the robin hotel. Will probably get the tram back upto wolves and check out the great western. Look out for the retro honved.
18 May 2013
BrumBiscuit
The Great Western is here: http://goo.gl/maps/ZKWr7
However, it is really hidden away. When you come out of the main Wolvo entrance, turn right and walk along the station facade, towards the Transport Police nick. After 30-40 yards, you’ll come to some steps on the right. Go down those and turn right at the bottom and keep going. You’ll embrace the margins of a car park for a couple of hundred yards until The Great Western appears, as if by magic.
Should Chris, the Siteowner wish to pass on my email address to you and John Waters, I shall give you my mobile number. I’ll be in a Dickie Davies hoodie.
@ John “Shorts” Waters, the OWR is here: http://goo.gl/maps/NME18 with the route to the Robin2 on. <5 mins walk between the two places. I've added the Trumpet (Holdens) and the Sir Henry Newbolt (Wetherpoos) to the map, but they are in the wrong direction, though only 10 mins walk or so. (Enough for me to miss Joy in Leeuwarden last time!)
19 May 2013
BrumBiscuit
And another thing…
@John “Shorts” Waters, if you do have a spare ticket, let me know & I will buy it off you.
19 May 2013
BrumBiscuit
And yet another thing…
@ J “S” W
Go to the home page and look for Stuart Vallantine’s Half Map Half Biscuit for place references.
19 May 2013
BrumBiscuit
Monmore Green opens at 6.30 on Thursday evening for a 7.25 start of the racing, should anyone fancy a pre-gig flutter and PBR.
I’ve told my mate that the Great Western does Bathams, so he’s up for it. He’ll be in a short-sleeved Dukla Prague Away top. Following that, it’s the metro to Bilston Central and the delights of the OWR – hopefully.
20 May 2013
Nigel
Don’t want to upset Brumbiscuit, so I won’t tell him that my room at the “not cheap” Robin cost me less than his travelodge! (although I did book it last October).
I remember wandering round Bilston the morning after DF joined them on stage – it saya something about the town when you think the nicest looking shopfront was the local undertakers.
20 May 2013
BrumBiscuit
Yebbut, we’re getting three in our room and I was quoting the price when I posted – my room, booked last September, was £15, so there with brass knobs on! Last time I looked, rooms at the Robin were £50+, so you got yourself a deal there. I just hope you don’t have brooms for company
The first time I went to Bilston, it was a bleak, foggy January Saturday. My birthday to be precise. It was dire. I was expecting tumbleweed to come flying down it was that desolate. It hasn’t got any better.
20 May 2013
John “Shorts” Waters
Brum Biscuit – cheers for info, I won’t know if I have spare ticket until I get stood up bt as she’s not replying to texts & e-mails @ the mo
20 May 2013
dr desperate
@ Brumbiscuit In Bilston, every day is National Shite Day.
21 May 2013
thetube82
I am heading down from Newcastle, staying in Wolves, no idea where the pubs are in Wolves or how to get to gig, never mind will look for various tee-shirts/football shirts/etc. and hopefully tag along.
Might even wear a Gateshead FC football top to confuse the masses, ‘Heed Army! ‘Heed Army!
22 May 2013
thetube82
oh, and if anyone wants picking up along the way from Newcastle (via A1, M62, M6(ster)), happy to pick-up, cant do drop-off tho as staying there a few days.
22 May 2013
Dr Desperate
@TT82: The gig’s about 3 miles along the A41 from Wolverhampton centre (you can get a tram direct to Bilston though, 4 stops from St George’s).
22 May 2013
BrumBiscuit
@TT82
A few of us are having a jar or two in the Great Western in Wolvo, then hopping on the tram to Bilston to eat in the Olde White Rose – or elsewhere if it’s as disorganised as last time. We’ll be there from about 6. Feel free to join us for some of the Black Country’s finest ales, a la CAMRA Man.
22 May 2013
jitsu_g
Well the olde white rose isn’t too busy at the moment although there does seem to be a pensioners darts tourney going on. Maybe I’ll hide a few pints around the place in anticipation of chaos at the bar later on
23 May 2013
jitsu_g
Just heard sound check of tonight’s cover. Clearly I am not going to spoil it for everyone .
23 May 2013
JMAC
I’m not there..please do! Hope Dean Friedman turns up again! I was there for that one.
23 May 2013
JMAC
Really good curry house directly opposite the Robin if I remember right. More a takeway actually but couple of a tables available.
23 May 2013
Lee
When are the lads back in Sheffield or the surrounding areas? i.e. Rotherham, Albion Road WMC would be a great venue!!
23 May 2013