Following an extensive period of rehearsals following our time in the studio, Rob and I were raring to go. As such, it was with great concern that we watched the snow pile up, the roads become more difficult and the ice and slush get worse. Thankfully, the weather eased to make it certain that we could get on the road and start what looks to be a busy and exciting 2010 for us.
The St. Neots club has had to find two new venues in quick succession. We were invited to the Priory Centre, where we played in a fine and warm upstairs room. Roger and Patty, who run the club, worked very hard to set up a small stage, and 25 hardy souls braved the weather to make us very welcome.
Roger kicked the evening off and later led a wonderful rendition of General Taylor in what he described as a ‘thrunge’. There were some very nice floorspots from club regulars, including a playing of Nic Jones’ The Indian Lass, which I haven’t heard for years.
We played two sessions of forty minutes and felt that we were very well received. We played material from the forthcoming album and a few others. Our new song about the pirate John Avery, who was effectively robbed and left penniless by ‘land pirates’, was picked up very quickly by club members who clearly enjoy a good sing-song. Other songs and tunes that are on the album but haven’t formed a major part of our concert repertoire also got an airing, like The Child Mother and The Bloody Inn. We also played our new Asturian muneira (in 6/8 time) which is certainly a lively way to kick off the second half.
We were very pleased to be offered the chance to give the fullest rendition of our repertoire. So, thank you Roger and Patty, and thank you to all at St Neots for the very nice reception and supportive feedback given to us.
