Changes in Ascot UK music scene

Subject: Changes in Ascot UK music scene
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 03 Oct 14 - 06:01 AM

Subject: RE: Changes in Ascot UK music scene
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 03 Oct 14 - 06:40 AM

A whole post gone into the ether! Damn. Try again!
At my local venue, Jagz there has been a change of ownership and personnel. Graham Steel, the music booker who revitalised the venue recently has left to run his own music company representing a talented group of artists at a range of venues. Full details at Graham Steel Music.
The new events manager is Damon Sawyer, well known as a drummer (Sonny Black and the Dukes etc.) and recording engineer (formerly at Park Studios, Bracknell, now at Platform Studio, Burghfield, Reading). The Tuesday Acoustic Cafe is renamed Acoustic Platform and gives the same opportunity for up and coming talent. The Compere is experienced singer/guitarist Steve Morano who can fill in any awkward gaps between acts with his own performances. Judging by this week, there is still wealth of young talent around. Next Tuesday is a drum workshop- I don't think my washboard would be welcome.
I'm looking forward to the new monthly blues sessions on Thursdays as they feature Dave Raphael's new duo Sepia Twins with Nick Hyde, the guitarist from the Dave Raphael Band. Much as I enjoyed the full band, I preferred Dave's previous duo Ruckus Blues.
On the jazz front, the weekly Sunday lunchtime modern jazz sessions continue, with about one a month still curated by former owner John Gripton. I was pleased to see that the Saturday night dancers are to be treated to some jazzy big bands as well as the usual rock or soul outfits.
Speaking of soul there was an excellent set by Chuck Chandler's GoGo Five last night, with ex-Temptations guitarist, Otha Smith.
There's some folk on as well including Topette and Celia Barrett.
Full details as usual at Jagz
If you are in the area drop in. I'm usually there on Tuesdays and most Thursdays (the old git with the deaf aid, usually sitting just behind Dave, the sound guy), raising the average age considerably. There's no danger of me performing- Damon has heard me sing in the distant past and is probably still trying to forget the experience.

RtS

Subject: RE: Changes in Ascot UK music scene
From: fat B****rd
Date: 03 Oct 14 - 02:52 PM

Surely a skiffle/washboard night could be organized. Garn, Thimbles become a promoter.

Subject: RE: Changes in Ascot UK music scene
From: Roger the Skiffler
Date: 10 Oct 14 - 04:11 AM

Last night: Dave, Nick plus bass and drums. Great! Sound man, barmaid (sorry, barperson), two guys who came with the band and me. What is the matter with the Berks blues fans? If it was a couple of miles up the road in Bracknell, the horrible Cellar Bar would be full, as would South Street in Reading. 12 years ago at this venue we'd get 30-40 for a weekly blues night, now we hope the audience outnumber the band for a monthly blues night. Bands love the venue, always some decent beer. I despair.
Next one 13th Nov.
I'll be there.

RtS