Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010

Subject: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: broadstairs-jen
Date: 21 Jun 10 - 08:42 AM

Well, it's nearly that time again.


I know there are some mudcatters with gripes about Broadstairs, but there are also those that love it. This'll be my first Folk Week in 6 years that I haven't worked so I am really looking forward to it.

Who's going to be here?

Broadstairs Folk Week Web Site
MySpace Facebook

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Mitch the Bass
Date: 21 Jun 10 - 11:56 AM

I'll be there with a number of friends in http://www.broadstairsfolkweek.org.uk/events/artist/The_Ram_Company_-_Waltzers_%257E_Wonders_Show

Mitch

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: melodeonboy
Date: 21 Jun 10 - 12:00 PM

I'll be there with Jumbo Gumbo!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: romanyman
Date: 21 Jun 10 - 02:57 PM

Cant keep me away, even with me bagpipes

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: broadstairs-jen
Date: 21 Jun 10 - 03:32 PM

excellent stuff, counting the days ;)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: banjoman
Date: 22 Jun 10 - 05:19 AM

The Old Trout Band will be there again - celebrating 21 years of playing for the Hobby Horse Club/Celidhs/singarounds and anything else thrown at us. We love this festival and despite some of the gripes that materialise every year its still streets ahead of other festivals for its friendliness and range of activities and the way in which the whole town is involved. Hope to see lots of old (and new) friends there
Pete

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Leraud
Date: 22 Jun 10 - 06:22 AM

We (Lynne Heraud & Pat Turner) will be there until the Tuesday.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,FloraG
Date: 23 Jun 10 - 03:57 AM

Andy and I are looking forward to being there Pete. We should be getting the caravan back today in working order today - main dealer repair - ouch. I think weve learned all the tunes we need to - but I expect youll surprise us.

Most festivals have their own unique feel. Were off to Ely soon and its very different in that there is very litle involvement from the town. I've always felt that as long as there is not too much under your nose collecting, the Broadstairs residents welcome the festival as part of the summer season.

See you all on a school field soon

Flora.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 23 Jun 10 - 09:18 AM

By this time last year there were over 200 posts on the BFW thread and heated debates were taking place

This year there are 8 (OK 9 with this one)

Does this mean that the controversy has gone away, everything is fine and we're in for a good Broadstairs or does it mean that people don't care any more and won't be bothering with it?

Myself, I won't be there and I know a couple of others who have called time on it.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: broadstairs-jen
Date: 23 Jun 10 - 02:04 PM

thats what you said this time last year raffles...that you wont be here...

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 23 Jun 10 - 03:05 PM

:-)

guilty as charged!!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 23 Jun 10 - 03:41 PM

Hey RM are the gonksters there? I thought they were not. Where you going to camp?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: broadstairs-jen
Date: 23 Jun 10 - 03:45 PM

lol raffles - sorry to not be seeing you this year, hope to catch up with you again soon
j x

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 23 Jun 10 - 03:52 PM

I am not so far planning to attend, but might day-trip. It's only an hour away so long as PC Plod does not see me doing warp 8 down the M2.   Is there a scheme for a decent fringe this year?   

I know a number of others are doing Sidders instead, since there are no rock bands in the pubs and the indigenes I met at Sidders last year were positively amiable beside the Ramstairs chavs.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: broadstairs-jen
Date: 24 Jun 10 - 04:40 AM

am assuming you are looking for fringe sessions richard.

the usual folk week sessions are scheduled including singing at the neptune, sessions at the nelson (shortened this year due to the pub making no money from them), the woodsheds at the wrotham, and campsite sessions.

a plea to everyone: please remember that a full pub is not necessarily a pub making money and the sessions are notoriously weak on the takings front. please support the sessions by buying your food and drink at the venues.

heard that dizzylisa was trying to get something going at the little albion near the campsite, but dont know if she was successful. the pub is reopening this week.

as for other fringe activities i will keep you informed if i hear of any - they tend to be more impromptu by nature.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 24 Jun 10 - 05:10 AM

Personally I've always considered the drinks to be the admission cost and tried to support the pub that I'm in.

It worries me to see people sitting there with a pint for a whole evening's entertainment then moaning about the prices, it's just not sustainable.

Of course that doesn't just go for Broadstairs but any pub sessions where the landlord doesn't charge and even more so where a paid artist has been booked

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: broadstairs-jen
Date: 24 Jun 10 - 07:30 AM

well said that bear!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: The Barden of England
Date: 24 Jun 10 - 12:35 PM

Jen - Your knowledge of the monetary angle of these things is far superior to mine so I won't disagree with you, except in that all the sessions you have mentioned have a limited time span. It's been my experience at other festivals that if the session is allowed to continue for far more than 2 hours then it's not the players that are the ones that will be spending the money, but the people that come in and listen to them. And the more the players, singers et all that are encouraged to keep playing, singing etc. the more people will pass through, each buying their share.
I must agree though, that it takes a brave host to try this out, especially when other establishments offer free amplified music. I can only go by one particular place at another week long festival that I won't mention that openly encourages musicians all day long (and into the early hours of the morning too) by supplying said musicians, singers et all with jugs of beer and plates of food 3 or 4 times a day, and happily says 'if I keep the musicdians, I keep the crowds'. He's been doing it for the last 20 years to my knowledge, and I respect his judgement too.
I will say though, it will take a brave host to take that plunge at Broadstairs.
John barden

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: broadstairs-jen
Date: 05 Jul 10 - 06:51 AM

i hear ya john...we could talk for hours about this! but...

one month to go to broadstairs folk week! tickets selling fast

j

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Girl Friday
Date: 05 Jul 10 - 07:34 AM

Hi. As Jen is already aware, I'm one of those not going to Broadstairs this year. I don't know, if it is still the case, but the pubs pay the festival organisation to have bands play in the pub. Some of them go their own way, and book rock bands, but, as they are paying anyway, that's their choice. No doubt they can make that money back from the drinkers that they attract. So they aren't making a fortune, but doing ok thanks. It's very hard, (for me, anyway) to drink , and play in a session. Only having one pair of hands - he he. Remember too, that the people who like to listen to session music, are often the ones who want to be playing. If there's going to be campsite sessions - good. We've been offering to run them for about three years with no take-up.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 05 Jul 10 - 09:02 AM

That's sounding a bit as if the climate is going against what I want - and of course if there are to be campsite sessions (as well as the attempts to do things in the school, an unattractive room) then those with no season ticket can't get in to them.

It's beginning to sound as if I might as well save my petrol money!

Incidentally, the only times you'll see me stretch one or two pints out for a whole session is if I'm driving, otherwise I will put away about four in an evening and maybe more on a noon-to-midnight type session. So the incumbent licensee is pocketing his share of about twelve quid (say six quid) for something on which his only cost is overhead.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: broadstairs-jen
Date: 05 Jul 10 - 01:58 PM

ye olde crown has done its usual change of landlord right before folk week, but the good news is the new landlord is leaving the pub open to anyone that wants to go in and play, as last year.

there is also a (new to BFW 2010) toddlers singaround at helter skelter on york street on the tuesday at 10am...a fantastic idea for young singers and their grown-up friends!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,rod the red
Date: 05 Jul 10 - 02:02 PM

just checked my prog and there is a daily open session at the crown all day until someone comes along and joins in at night.
the thing that gets me about bfw is that at any1 time there is always loads of events on, so if u do happen to be in a pub when a band starts that isnt to your fancy move move move if there isnt free music to your liking pay a bit of money and see a world class concert in the park.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,Mary Queen of Snails
Date: 05 Jul 10 - 02:46 PM

I'm really happy to see a lot less moany posts about Broadstairs this year. I love the festival and reading the negative heavy threads of the last few years has always saddened me. I've been attending & contributing for many years now and believe it to be one of the most forward thinking, musically diverse and friendliest festivals around. I appreciate that the over exuberant joyous croud of locals ( young& old, not just chavs!) that party between the three pubs can be a bit crazy & over bearing at times but it can be avoided. Backways to the Pavilion & the Neps are always an option or even the zillion other gigs, sessions & concerts going on elsewhere in town. It's not the festival's fault and it's sad that people would find that a reason not to come. Surely it's just people having fun... and what else would you expect from a folk festival? There are so many GOOD things going on at the festival. The Workforce - Friendly, fun and countless life long friends made. The atmosphere at the campsite is lovely. The music in the pubs (BFW gigs!!) is a wonderful musical mix, something to suit everyone and the late nights at the Pav are are another cocktail of funky, folky & interesting music. The best thing is that it gets better and better every year.... see you all there.....

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: romanyman
Date: 06 Jul 10 - 04:26 AM

RB I will be on site as usual, gongs will be only down on saturday ho hum

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: romanyman
Date: 10 Jul 10 - 02:13 PM

this thread is mighty quiet, is it time to worry ? or as previously said like rafflesbear im not sure if its a good or a bad thing, what does broadstairs clash with, ? or is it the price ? i know one person who is taking his partner to turkey for two weeks for the same money, bet he had to think long and hard where to go, ?????

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 10 Jul 10 - 02:24 PM

Owing to some changes I will now be present for the opening weekend - maybe you and I can make some mayhem Ken!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: romanyman
Date: 11 Jul 10 - 01:50 PM

Thats a deal, im sure we get up to all sorts of noise and mayhem

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 11 Jul 10 - 03:48 PM

How do you make the squash balls stick on you sticks?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: romanyman
Date: 15 Jul 10 - 05:16 AM

Good old super glue

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: synbyn
Date: 16 Jul 10 - 05:27 AM

Yes, Roger & I will be there in the Wrotham- Woodshed session every day from 3pm onwards- for those who are thinking of trying it, the Woodshed is a session where you bring your tunes and songs along for everyone to join in- and popular it's been, a real mixture of styles and the opportunity to try out your own skills at harmonising and accompanying others.

The Woodshed is definitely an all-in session- where everyone feels part of the action and we all play together... memorable moments all along where 30+ pperformers are all in sympathy with the song... Lynne & Pat on Sat... best to be there early! 3pm every day...

seee you there

Bob

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 16 Jul 10 - 07:21 AM

Talking of the Woodshed sessions, could broadstairs-jen pop over to the Seven Stars thread to answer a question from Girl Friday please, thanks

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: broadstairs-jen
Date: 16 Jul 10 - 07:33 AM

okey dokey

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,FloraG
Date: 17 Jul 10 - 06:13 AM

Whats the parking like round your old pub jen. My friend can't walk very far.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: broadstairs-jen
Date: 18 Jul 10 - 04:08 PM

flora, its busy...your best bet is king edward avenue (runs down the hill to the front of the pub). you might want to google map ct10 1qq. king edward is not timed, most of the other streets close by have 1 hour limits. hope that helps.
j

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,FloraG
Date: 19 Jul 10 - 03:45 AM

Thanks Jen. Local knowlegde is invaluable.

The Woodshed sessions sound ideal. I've always thought of English folk music more than irish or Scottish as the forerunner of Jazz - in the sense that each rendition can be different from the one before, rather than set pieces. This sort of session allows you that experimentation.

I'm not that brave when wired up. Does PA reduce creativity?

Flora.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: synbyn
Date: 19 Jul 10 - 11:07 AM

er... um... not sure, I've got my plug in... yes, I think it does, and it imposes a barrier between performers and listeners or other more nervous performers. The whole thing about the Woodshed has always been maximum participation, everyone going away having played , sung & expanded their boundaries for a couple of hours....look forward to seeing you there
Bob

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST, Fido
Date: 26 Jul 10 - 03:57 PM

In some cases error or inability is the root of such variation, but only the most ignorant could describe any sort of British folk music as a forerunner of jazz.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST, Fido
Date: 27 Jul 10 - 03:25 AM

Refresh, rope, enough, etc...

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST, Fido
Date: 28 Jul 10 - 03:11 AM

Refresh. There must be SOMETHING worth doing at Broadstairs this year, preferably without significant disadvantage, isn't there?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: romanyman
Date: 28 Jul 10 - 12:48 PM

hmmm hows about hunt the fido, that seems a good idea, apart from that kick back and enjuy what ever you want to

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: stormalong
Date: 02 Aug 10 - 02:34 AM

Has the Neptune singalong been dropped? It's still mentioned in the venues section of the website, but not in the 'What's On' section. The shanties on the jetty session also seems to be missing.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST
Date: 02 Aug 10 - 03:15 AM

stormalong...both of these are still on. the neps singalong is daily with pete collins and guests. the shanties on the pier are sunday afternoon.
jen

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: broadstairs-jen
Date: 02 Aug 10 - 03:17 AM

probably guessed, but that was me

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,FloraG
Date: 02 Aug 10 - 05:21 AM

Don't forget the ice cream parlour Fido. Thats well worth going for.

I think you misunderstood my comment on jazz. When I'm playing with PA I tend to be less experimental than in a session - so when you hear me with the PA at Broadstairs I shall be atempting to play all the set notes in the right order and even in the same key as the others in the band. However, thats not my idea of the essence of English folk music.

More than Scottish or Irish, English music lends itself to more experimentation and when I have lead workshops I have tended to encourage the idea that each time through, the tune should sound a bit different from the time before. It is the experimentation that is common in jazz as well as bluegrass.

I hope that sort of makes sense.

Flora.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 02 Aug 10 - 06:09 AM

When English folk music starts sounding even remotely like jazz I'm off to Country and Western

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,FloraG
Date: 02 Aug 10 - 10:38 AM

I don't believe you Mr Bear. Slidey notes and whiney songs.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: romanyman
Date: 02 Aug 10 - 12:41 PM

me to even me bagpipes is better than jazz an i only know a few tunes and they aint great , but to me better than jazz

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 02 Aug 10 - 01:13 PM

You are right Flora, I just popped into the Emmylou Harris thread here on Mudcat (I like to live dangerously)

Bring on John Coltrane !!!   :-)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 03 Aug 10 - 09:22 AM

I've just had a bit of a look at the camping terms and conditions and am, frankly, gobsmacked:

No daily seasons (including camping) for either Friday.

The campsite is a no smoking zone! (What, the entire campsite? Are the wardens going to poke into campers' tents at 3 am to check?)

Oh yes, and in the spirit of live and let live: -

" The general spirit of Folk Week is one of consideration for others ... Although we appreciate some people's need to showcase their prowess on the 3 string guitar at half-past two in the morning - unacceptable levels of noise will not be tolerated on either field. Please be aware that if we consider your behaviour is threatening the future of the festival at this site – we will ask you to leave. The campsite is not on a green field site away from everyone, it is in a residential area and we like to have happy neighbours."

Oh, and Mr Google he say that nowhere on the official website is there a mention of buses.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 03 Aug 10 - 01:28 PM

are those the happy neighbours that raided the site a couple of years back?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: romanyman
Date: 03 Aug 10 - 05:27 PM

of course it was, and just as i thought the thread was going so well this year, along comes the bus, however last year was more flexible bus wise so lets hope thats the same this year. will the no smoking rule be enforced as last year i was made almost sick by the dope heads and their puff just a few tents away.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 04 Aug 10 - 02:42 AM

Some details of the bus service would surely be appropriate.

As for the smoking ban - it it is to be taken literally then there will be many people who in effect cannot stay on the campsite.

As for noise, it was not many years back that Bishop Gundulf were told be security to stop talking in the BG marquee.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 04 Aug 10 - 03:08 AM

Met office now says raining fri nite, pissing sat, but metcheck says light rain both.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,FloraG
Date: 04 Aug 10 - 03:35 AM

I think the smokers have themselves to blame for this. In previous years too many - but not all - dumped their fag ends on a school field three weeks before the start of term.

I don't understand why smokers think they can litter where they like.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST, Fido
Date: 04 Aug 10 - 07:27 AM

That is impressively fallacious.

First it appears that FloraG, whoever she may be, thinks that the smokers who didn't leave their fag-ends on the field are responsible for and should be punished for the sins of those who do. She then seems to generalise her accusations yet more widely on the basis of other littering that she says she has seen apparently in other places.

Second, Cambridge festival used to have a giant sweeper that swept the stage fields for beer cans and all other rubbish overnight every night and I'm sure that there is rubbish collection done on the Broadstairs camping fields as soon as the last camper is off. The implication that the campers' fag ends are somehow corrupting or damaging to the little darlings at school - after first being mostly cleared and secondly composted by three weeks further of British summer (not to mention periodic grass cutting) - is surely a massive over-reaction if not a total fantasy.

I don't smoke, but I don't approve of witch-hunts (with some exceptions).

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,FloraG
Date: 04 Aug 10 - 09:40 AM

You are right Fido. It is not all smokers who dump their fag ends anywhere they feel like it - but a lot do.   Just look outside any pub or office block.

The Filter tips don't disintegrate as quickly as the non filter and the school only have three weeks to get their field back to playing standard before the term begins. This school use their field a lot for sport and this year got to the finals of the inter schools Kent football competition. I know about this because I'm involved in one of the groups that sponsors this, and was at the finals - and what a good match it was too.

I have always found that most campers are like the Roman Army - they expect to leave a site as they found it - with little indication that a camp has existed there. Its always surprising when you find a sub group who don't follow this principle.

FloraG

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST, Fido
Date: 04 Aug 10 - 05:06 PM

FloraG:

I did not create, merely adopted, your premise. Those you now say can be identified as sinners are subsets of a subset - they are smokers who smoke outside pubs, and smokers who smoke outside office blocks.

So why should those like country stiles (more sinned against than sinning) be punished?

I also suggest that you consider grass that has been mown with a modern mower that lifts cuttings - in the three weeks you cite the vast preponderance of filter tips will have been lifted. As for any that have not, the nicotine and other chemicals will have been biodegraded.

I infer that you let your dislike for smoking become a dislike of smokers.   Hate the sin (if it be a sin) but love the sinner.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 04 Aug 10 - 05:46 PM

Sooooo......

what are the acts not to be missed? Any newcomers worth looking out for in the pubs?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 04 Aug 10 - 06:02 PM

Or are there any good participative song and music sessions (I'm not bovvered about music only, nor unaccomplished only) apart from the Crown and the Wrotham Arms (and the very time limited Neptunes Hall)?

Will steps be taken to make the school hall more welcoming and intimate late at night - think 6th form party?   The school used to be a wonderful hub late at night. Surely more can be done to resurrect it.

If we're going to get that flaming wet it might as well be in a good cause!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 05 Aug 10 - 02:24 AM

Wevva forecasts for the opening weekend improving.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,synbyn
Date: 05 Aug 10 - 07:45 AM

Well, the opening night at the school will effectively be a Woodshed with as much participation as we can get... let's hope people aren't to exhausted after a long drive from Devon!

There look to be a number of interesting younger acts this year- good news for all of us and for the folk arts in general- and they are pretty dextrous, if you look up their YouTubes and MySpace clips...

and it's up to us to make them welcome...

Bob

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 05 Aug 10 - 05:57 PM

When you say "opening night" do you mean Friday the 6th?

Might be a safe harbour. What will you do about atmosphere?

Candles - health and safety

Low light - health and safety

Suspended nets visually to lower ceiling - er - elf + safe tea?

Partitions to shrink room as necessary?

Low gain overhead mic to add a bit of reverb and presence?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 06 Aug 10 - 01:44 AM

Alas met check and met office seem largely to agree, mostly raining (although not a lot) from mid-day today until Sunday.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 08 Aug 10 - 03:29 PM

Ah well. I gather there was nothing participative on Friday night. The Crown was OK-ish Saturday daytime. The Albion was not as good as mediocre Saturday evening.

I lost another hat. Two hats, two weekends. Maybe I was not destined to wear a hat.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: VirginiaTam
Date: 08 Aug 10 - 04:35 PM

maybe it is time you bought some new hats?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 09 Aug 10 - 03:18 PM

Where are the daily updates of the progress of the week, here or on Fakebook?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Arnie
Date: 10 Aug 10 - 06:11 AM

Well, here's one update. My wife and I attended the Songs of Kent concert in the Methodist Church yesterday (Mon) aft. Bob Kenward, Bernard Quenby and Sue Watson put on an excellent Kent-themed concert of songs with a bit of humourous chat in between. The place was packed to begin with, although a few of the audience mysteriously left just before the end - I suppose there was another gig starting up that they had tickets for. The weather was kind as well, with a nice sunny afternoon and evening and drinkers sitting outside at the Wrotham Arms. Shame today (Tues) has started off with a downpour!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Boston Bass
Date: 10 Aug 10 - 02:45 PM

I'm really missing B'stairs this year, although I've been kept busy with a Boston Folk Orchestra wedding in Bucks, Better Late than Naked at Lincolnshire's 600 whiskies day of folk (Excellent!), and Cropredy at the end of the week.... I'd really like to know..how's things at the Nelson? (A spiritual home)
BB

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,bumcat
Date: 11 Aug 10 - 01:33 PM

What a load of rubbish Jumbo Gumbo are! They completely destroy songs that are actually good with their unoriginal interpretations. The melodeon player just makes a noise without understanding his instrument and the drummer is atrocious. The only person in the band who is worth their salt is Dave who is denied expressing his true talents from the mediocre (at best) playing from the rest of the band. Hang up your boots and sell your instruments, let other better bands get gigs!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 11 Aug 10 - 01:49 PM

Is that you Dave?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 11 Aug 10 - 01:56 PM

I suspect it's the shirt murderer trying a new angle on self-publicity.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST, Fido
Date: 11 Aug 10 - 02:03 PM

Ah, but are they worse than the Pacific Twunts?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,Joss stick
Date: 11 Aug 10 - 02:09 PM

They're worse and unbearable to look at to add insult to injury. Have you ever seen an uglier set of mugs together at the same time in yer lives before?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,golden oldie
Date: 11 Aug 10 - 02:13 PM

Actually I quite fancy the drummer, but then, I am 92 next week, no accounting for tastes at my age. I wouldn't ever go for that box player though. He looks like a sow.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST, Fido
Date: 11 Aug 10 - 03:59 PM

I do know a worse squeezer, but they are prone to protest if identified.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,Folker
Date: 11 Aug 10 - 05:11 PM

Are squeezers worse than grunters or are they about the same?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Rafflesbear
Date: 11 Aug 10 - 07:01 PM

It's like reading a conversation between Peter Brough and Archie Andrews

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 12 Aug 10 - 03:11 AM

Be careful where you put your hand.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 12 Aug 10 - 03:34 AM

By the way, anyone under canvas (or nylon) should pack up and leave NOW or start stocking up on cedars of Lebanon and mating pairs of animals (other than folkies, there are probably enough of those down there anyway).

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Girl Friday
Date: 12 Aug 10 - 05:38 AM

I suggest forming the Mumbo Jumbo Leopard Band...... by the way this pair of leopards are past breeding age... and therefore no good when the flood comes.... how high are the cedars of Lebanon?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 12 Aug 10 - 06:53 AM

I didn't say breeding, I said mating.

If the cedars of Lebanon are in any way related to folkies, some will have been "Eight Miles High".

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,Wee Jock
Date: 12 Aug 10 - 09:20 AM

I have seen Jumbo Gumbo many times and have always had a great time the impression that bumcat gives who ever he or she is, is that they are a member of a band that did not get any gigs at broadstairs. I may be wrong though.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Girl Friday
Date: 12 Aug 10 - 11:59 AM

Hi Wee Jock. I think that you may be spot on ! The bands that get booked are ones that entertain not just us folkies, but Joe and Joanna Public too.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 12 Aug 10 - 02:06 PM

I am sure that those were not serious comments. I am sure, even from his name, that bumcat is on a wind-up and I strongly suspect he is one of Jumbo Gumbo (although I suspect that the delicate cajun flavours of gumbo, the stew, would be much altered by inserting an elephant) trying a different tack on shameless self-promotion.

Meanwhile, who are the Pacific Prawns and indeed who is Fido's least favourite squeezer? Enguiring minds want to know.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,bumcat
Date: 12 Aug 10 - 06:31 PM

I am a member of the 'Leopard Skin Trousers Down band' and we sing numbers such as 'Trouser snake', 'Cheesey Clangers', 'Dog breath in the mornin', 'Where's me Clearasil' and 'Fart all night'. We get gigs at Broadstairs all the time, I'd be surprised if you haven't seen/heard us. Jumbo Gobbers are rubbish, I reassert it after tonight's performance! You must all be deaf or have drunk too much not to have noticed.
I see from the comments above, some people agree with me!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 12 Aug 10 - 08:48 PM

Oh, wait a minute, you played the carpark stage opposite Boley Hill at Sweeps - last year I think. Are you the lead singer, Johnny Fartpants, or some such similar name? You were total crap. To be fair to Elephant Stew they can somewhat do DOS.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,bumcat
Date: 13 Aug 10 - 04:06 AM

Jumbo Grunters have nothing on us!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,bumcat
Date: 13 Aug 10 - 04:10 AM

In fact, Richard, why not join us?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 13 Aug 10 - 05:25 AM

I'll bring my lawyer! What bat-time, what bat-channel?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,bumcat
Date: 13 Aug 10 - 06:15 AM

Jumbo shirt-murdering gobstoppers! Holy crap frattoir players! Name your stage. I'll be mambo stewed if this doesn't bode infinitum for the Riddler!

Holy catfish! etc

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 14 Aug 10 - 06:11 AM

Changing topic - if any caravanner runs out of butane next year, I can tell them where NOT to go to a replacement. The caravan and camper van shop on the main road out of town, just near the Broadstairs campus of Christchurch univesity. They quoted me £27 and odd for a refill for a 4.5kg bottle of butane. The proper price is under £15 - and here is a link to a camping chainstore sellig it for even less: -

http://www.gooutdoors.co.uk/calor-calor-butane-4-5kg-camping-gas-refill-p132716

I HATE swindlers like that.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Kampervan
Date: 14 Aug 10 - 08:07 AM

But apart from that Mr Bridge, how was Broadstairs folk week?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,FloraG
Date: 14 Aug 10 - 10:32 AM

Had a great time at Broadstairs. Met a lot of old friends and played a bit too.

The mini bus drivers were especially good at driving us and our equipement around. Much better than trying to use a car for the PA and then trying to park.

Nice to see the yougsters featured at the festival. I just wish they would turn up at folk clubs more.

suggested improvement. If the organisers could ask the school if those with disabled badges for cars could be allowed to park by their tents/ caravans rather than expecting them to park in the car park.

FloraG

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: synbyn
Date: 14 Aug 10 - 03:49 PM

Yes, it was a great week- thanks to everyone who came along to the Woodshed, we had 103 tune/song leaders this year, and the atmosphere was great every day- particularly pleasnat was the way everyine toned down their playing to suit the song and the performer, rather than imposing their own way of playing...

and thanks too for such a turnout at the Kent concert- we reached the church's fire limit and could see people at the door being told no room even as we were singing Come In And Sit Down... lovely to hear the singing coming back ... and apologies for running a bit late, we had to make sure everyone was in on a short turnround! hope you made the later concert too!

If you enjoyed any of these, please do email the festival organisers to let them know- they do respond to public demand, and it would be good for Mudcat to be seen as a place of constructive comment which informs the next festival...

Cheers
Bob (& Sue & Bernie)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Richard Bridge
Date: 14 Aug 10 - 05:51 PM

K

I was only there for opening Friday night, and Saturday. Pressure of work took me away on Sunday. The atmosphere seemed good, and the busses were very good - everyone I know has said so. The Geheime Stadts Polizei looked very butch but I heard of no criticism of them so I infer that some of the more draconian sounding stuff about how to camp was bluff.

Cars seemed to be allowed readily onto the distant field - but some pillocks put their tents in the "roadways" which made getting a caravan out mildly entertaining.

I found not a lot in the way of accompanied song sessions - I gather that the Neptune and the Wrotham were swinging from the chandeliers so that if you were not in, you were not in , and if you were in you were not getting out.

Circumstances stopped me getting to the opening night school session so I cannot comment on it.

I would have liked to go to the "Knit yourself a PA" tutorial.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: Girl Friday
Date: 14 Aug 10 - 06:37 PM

We paid £14.20 or so at Weatherly Fencing on North Cray Road Foots Cray
for 4.5 butane cylinder.. Orpington Caravans were always dearer- but that price in Broadstairs is outrageous!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: melodeonboy
Date: 15 Aug 10 - 08:02 AM

Yes, another great week. I didn't get to as much as I wanted to due to other commitments. The Neptune singaround on the Thursday was great. The Thursday Woodshed session was also excellent. Well done, Bob. A really well run session and, as you said, great sensitivity from the performers. Re the Woodshed sessions, it may be worth contacting Kim (the Folk Week organiser) and the landlady of The Wrotham Arms to let them know how well received the sessions are and how much they add to the festival. I think it's important that they continue as a permanent feature of the festival.

Thanks to all of those who came to (and especially those who danced at) the Jumbo Gumbo gigs (even the odd one or two who found it not to their liking! :-D ).

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,banjoman
Date: 15 Aug 10 - 09:39 AM

Arrived home safe - Awning hanging out to dry - dead pet rabbit burried in garden, Dead plants thrown out and fishpond replenished with water. Thanks to our son who "Looked after things " while we were away.
A really great week celebrating 21 years of OTB playing on the Bandstand. Special thanks to Flora & Andy & Marion. Great companions and musicians. Hope to see you there again next year God willing and if the creek don't run dry.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,lady of the isle
Date: 15 Aug 10 - 01:55 PM

not able to attend as much as i would have liked as working but some outstanding sessions were first friday session at school, what a marvelous way to welcome in the festival,thanks Bob. Like old times! neptune singalongs were great, especially sunday gospel..wonderful!Tom and Barbara's singaround sessions great as always - African song workshop transported me back to Maridadi days.Good to have Woodshed sessions again, you've been missed! Many thanks to Janet Russell for standing in for Roger Watson with such marvelous workshop - hope you get invited back next year!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,pasher
Date: 15 Aug 10 - 03:29 PM

Another great week. Well done to all concerned.
I tend to concentrate on the Pavilion and Marquee gigs, and the only questionable one I saw was the late night reggae/ska band (if you think Jumbo Gumbo ugly, just see this band's singer !!!) who were best described as a cover band who didn't seem to know who they were covering.
No probs. on the campsite, showers hot, buses running on demand, loads of great shows.
What could be better?

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST, Fido
Date: 15 Aug 10 - 05:38 PM

Banjoman, Marion can indeed play the keyboards. Please note what I am not saying.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: romanyman
Date: 15 Aug 10 - 08:00 PM

not my favorite venue as many know, but this year was as good if not better than last, i was a bit dissapointed that i had to miss a session at the wrotham due to large numbers but apart from that it was another good week, oh and richard check they didnt charge vat on your gas, its vat free, many dealers charge it and no one questions it, on and apart from having to buy a new tyre while i was there i cant think of anything bad, so keep up the good work bfw, oh apart from can you try and get a better mix of "craft stall once you been to one you been to them all, (the outside ones that is)

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: stormalong
Date: 15 Sep 10 - 12:32 PM

An idea that came up during Tom and Barbara's breakfast chat with Liam Robinson was a half-speed English tune session. I'd like to see that daily but as a morning workshop well away from the public.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,FloraG
Date: 16 Sep 10 - 03:42 AM

stormalong
Whitby do this as a very popular lunch time session and it actually sounds quite good - certainly good enough to listen to while eating lunch in the pavillion. It is led by a lady who plays the saxaphone - which is loud enough to keep everyone in time. My saxaphone playing isn't quite up to hers so I can't offer to do the same but I'm sure someone can.
FloraG

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: stormalong
Date: 17 Sep 10 - 03:08 AM

Flora

I think Liam might be in the running for this as it's something he does. I wouldn't want it to clash with the other major participatory events which, for me, are the Neptune, the Woodshed and Tom and Barabara's singaround. It would also be good to have this during that short period of sobriety before the sun is over the masthead.

Stormalong

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,FloraG
Date: 17 Sep 10 - 04:04 AM

Stormalong
have you made the suggestion to the committee? they mostly don't read mudcat. I only started reading it last year when I was looking for photos of faversham and found some abusive name calling.

A tip I picked up from the caravan and camping club was to have the key person ( lead musician) in the evening dance miked up but to have a whole group of other musicians permitted to play in the background. This may not result in the best band ever but usually they do ok, tends to encourage novice musicians, and for many its a good chance to play with better players. I think this would be a good idea for Broadstairs.

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: stormalong
Date: 17 Sep 10 - 04:12 AM

Yes, I always try to submit a bit of personal feedback, usually a plea to maintain the things I like!

Subject: RE: Broadstairs Folk Week 6-13 August 2010
From: GUEST,FloraG
Date: 17 Sep 10 - 05:34 AM

Good idea, Stormalong. Often the organisers who put in hours of time do not get enough positive feedback.