MARCH - 2015

Newspaper No 319 31 March 2015

Slightly fewer brave souls as our hosts KAMRAN & HEATHER invited a full band up as a tribute to John Renbourne WILL THE CIRCLE BE UNBROKEN which encouraged BANJO JOHN to pick a medley of BANJO TUNES and SUE to sing the UKELELE BLUES with Geoff playing bass. Multi-instrumentalist EDDIE then took his Melodeon for a DOUBLE LEAP THROUGH towards a DARK GIRL DRESSED IN BLUE as JO was chasing a TRAVELLING SOLDIER and FAIR PLAY were chasing WINDMILLS. Any way up ROBIN asked them MEET ME ON THE CORNER and with ROB as usual COURTING TOO SLOW, despite his appearance on Facebook aboard a racing Ducati, GEOFF decided to take the train called the CITY OF NEW ORLEANS. In good spirit DON & HEATHER wished them all the best with MAY YOU NEVER before ED explained the hidden meanings of SCARBOROUGH FAIR and CARL gave us a warning about war with WILLIE MCBRIDE. This left JO to return to the STREETS OF LONDON and BANJO JOHN to tell the secrets of the ACE IN THE HOLE and SUE to explore the mysteries of the gypsy gentleman BLACKJACK DAVIE. Coming to the interval FAIR PLAY gave us one of their shocking songs, NAUGHTY BABY, and CARL dug out one of his saddest, THE BOYS OF BELLY ROW, which sent some to the bar for a stiff drink.

The raffle brought Chocolates for Martin which handed round; Wine for Alan which he took home; Ramekins for Carl; and a Glen Campbell CD for Geoff as KAMRAN unveiled the STACK O'LEE BLUES and ROB was that CHEERLY MAN. After years of trying EDDIE finally got to sing A WEEK BEFORE EASTER a week before Easter but ROBIN was in protest vein with Buffy Sainte-Marie and NOW THAT THE BUFFALO'S GONE. Late arrival on the night MARIAN then became the FEMALE DRUMMER at the Siege of Valenciennes as DON & HEATHER reflected on THE DIMMING OF THE DAY and GEOFF lifted us all with a great version of BACK IN THE HIGHLIFE AGAIN (Winwood). To ED it made everyone a WINNER as ROB was invited to tell us about the THINGS IN GRANDAD'S ATTIC, bloody hell, as ROBIN was swept away by FOUR STRONG WINDS. Then no secrets were disclosed when KAMRAN said SHE'S FUNNY THAT WAY and GEOFF trilled ALL BEFORE and we could think what we liked with EDDIE and the Everly's DREAM. There was, however, no mistaking ED's sentiments with FLOG 'EM & FLAY 'EM & HANG 'EM and thankfully FAIR PLAY & EDDIE were on hand with the tuneful BUTTER PEAS and WINSTER GALLOP before they got sentimental about Salford with DIRTY OLD TOWN. Determined to go out on a high DON & HEATHER had us lifting the roof to THE SPEED OF THE SOUND OF LONELINESS and then singing our heads off to ALL THE TUNES IN THE WORLD otherwise known as the borrowed guitar to end a cracking night.

Newspaper No 318 24 March 2015

An evening of great variety from the traditional to the latest new born and one day old song from PETE KING they were gently coaxed from the assembled talent by PAUL & ROBIN who started the ball rolling with
PAUL's invitation to WALK RIGHT IN. Quickly JOHN CHILCOTT introduced the BALLAD OF A TEENAGE QUEEN as GEOFF celebrated BRIGHT LIGHTS TONIGHT and PHIL sang the GREEN ANTHEM. This prompted GRASSROOTS to open a JAR OF HEARTS as JO was out CALLING MY CHILDREN HOME before EDDY went European with WOODEN HEART. Enough seriousness said DAVE BOULTON as he explained how to convert a SPRINKLE TO A SQUIRT and SUE was also full of levity with her UKELELE Hallelujah parody before DON & HEATHER contemplated the BORDERLINE. Also very serious GRAEME did full justice to SUNDAY MORNING COMING DOWN as ROBIN was off being trapped into matrimony in DENVER and JOHN CHILCOTT was getting hooked up with THE MIGHTY QUINN. Still impressed by the eclipse RICHARD GRAY remembered his own FOUR BLOOD MOONS while MICK was looking for a PAIR OF BROWN EYES and JO was seeking that BEALE STREET MAMA but nothing compared with PHIL's LONLIEST PLACE ON EARTH. When asked what he thought DAVE BOULTON replied TIFFANO while PETER KING was out in the MORNING RAIN with his latest song hot off the press before EDDIE turned to the cruel story of ANDREW ROSE.

In the raffle Gill won the soap; Alan took the Lynx aftershave; Dave B had the Tea; Joyce Railway won the book by Portillo and Aimee won the wine before PAUL had us ROLLING IN MY SWEET BABY'S ARMS and SUE & GEOFF had us singing JAMBALAYA. With another new song GRASSROOTS came back with LIES prompting RICHARD to sing his own IRISH LAMENT before GRAEME sang another greatest country hit FOR THE SAKE OF THE CHILDREN. Then DON & HEATHER were over in Australia with the DIAMANTINA DROVER to which ROBIN said it was GOOD TO BE BACK HOME AGAIN before PETER KING was also on his travels with his SONG OF THE SEA. All this made EDDIE think of HARD TIMES and DAVE BOULTON to conjecture that you are ONLY AS OLD as the woman you feel while PHIL was a bit ironic with SAFE AS HOUSES. Coming to a big finish GEOFF went for FOTHERINGAY and RICHARD was also heavy with TO MAKE YOU FEEL MY LOVE which had DON & HEATHER thinking of ALL THE GOOD TIMES and GRASSROOTS saying I WILL to end a cracking good evening.

Newspaper No 317 17 March 2015

They came early and they came quickly as more than fifty filled the room for FAIR PLAY to start the evening with their BROWN EYED BOY. Another favourite was then ED as the UNIVERSAL SOLDIER as was BANJO JOHN with OLD MAN RIVER just as JO & ANN beautifully sang AMAZING GRACE. However this didn’t stop CHRIS taking the LAST TRAIN AND RIDE as DON & HEATHER celebrated St Patrick with the RARE OULD TIMES as CARL turned to the equally beautiful ALICE. Delving into the archives ROBIN next came up with those LYING EYES as JIM & LYNN celebrated the STAR OF THE COUNTY DOWN and PETE sang his own song in praise of his home town with BALLYRIGAN FAIR. Then DAVE BOULTON was unable to resist the story of the barrel of bricks in SICK NOTE and MARK TAYLOR treated us to LOFTUS JONES before KAMRAN blew us away with STONE RIDER BLUES. Traditionally MARIAN told of THE OLD MINER as BANJO JOHN invited HAVE A DRINK ON ME and FAIR PLAY sang us a BLACK MOUNTAIN LULLABY. Coming to a climax toward the interval RICHARD GRAY sang one of his greatest hits THE DIAMOND ROSE as for JO it seems THE CARNIVAL IS OVER but still with the Irish DAVE BOULTON  explained how PADDY STOLE THE ROPE before PETE sang his own tribute to KERRY.

A bumper crowd deserved a big raffle and Jillian won the Cava, Steve won Fair Play’s CD, Mary took the Easter Egg, Heather Kenyon took the Chocolates and Jim went home with the Coffee.
Then it was all systems go as JIM & LYNN sped off on THE IRISH ROVER but more leisurely CARL told of THE BLACKSMITH AND THE TOFFEE MAKER and DON & HEATHER remembered THE GALWAY SHAWL. Wrapping his tonsils and fingers around another McTell classic for CHRIS it was all SWEET MYSTERY as MARIAN mourned THE BONNIE LIGHT HORSEMAN as and MARK explained the need for an INTERGALACTIC LAXATIVE. Still in blues mode KAMRAN sang about WILLIE MAE as ROBIN went Country for THE CRYSTAL CHANDELIER and RICHARD in sentimental mood said IF YOU SEE HER SAY HELLO. Next ED was reminded of the rebel song THE FOGGY DEW as in a romantic frame of mind PETE told us the HEART IS LIKE A WHEEL but this left JIM & LYNN running off crying I’LL TELL MY MA. All this led DAVE BOULTON to sum it up as EXCEPTIONAL TIMES IN IRELAND to which FAIR PLAY replied BEAUTIFUL leaving DON, HEATHER & ROBIN to have us all singing into the street with NOTHING TO SHOW FOR IT ALL which certainly was not true of this wonderful night. 

Newspaper No 316 10 March 2015

A sublime evening led superbly by JAN & MARK and topped by the appearance of the wonderful GRASSROOTS & ZOE MULFORD. Our hosts started the rout with ROTTERDAM followed by GRASSROOTS with ALL THE LIES THAT YOU TOLD ME and JOHN CHILCOTT with THE DIVE. This hade PETE ROBERTS remembering DAYS GONE BY and GRAEME telling us he is going back to school to learn Italian in Rome no less with BELLA CIAO to which COLIN replied with WHERE DO YOU GO TO MY LOVELY. All of this had PAUL off SINGING MY BLUES AWAY and JO off with a WAYFARING STRANGER and ROB sailing THE GREY FUNNEL LINE. Even deeper in the memory ED brought back good old AL BOWLLY and after going back for his forgotten banjo BANJO JOHN gave us HOT TIMES and KAMRAN was ALABAMA BOUND. For a change DAVE BOULTON said he SWIMS THE SEAS IN FREEDOM, the whale that is, as DON & HEATHER greeted THE DIMMING OF THE DAY and ZOE went in search of a QUALITY SHOE leaving MARIAN to seek THE NORTH WEXT PASSAGE. Returning JOHN CHILCOTT himself went searchi8ng but for ANNIE as BANJO JOHN swore I AIN'T MISBEHAVIN' as he was MAKIN' ALL MY DREAMS COME TRUE as MARK did when we all joined in with LITTLE POT STOVE.

In the raffle Rosaleen won the wine; Dave Boulton won the roses; Alan won and passed round the chocolates and Jackie won the Coffee for Vic before GRASSROOTS pleaded YOU CAN'T FAIL ME NOW. Not surprisingly ED then confessed IT'S HARD TO BE HUMBLE before JAN went all Welsh with OES GAFR ETO and DAVE BOULTON he was going to HEAR ALL, SEE ALL AND SAY NOWT. Quite from where ZOE told us how to get A MUCH BETTER VIEW OF THE MOON as indeed did DON & HEATHER with SONNY and MARIAN who HEARD THE CURLEW CALLING. Still PAUL this time had the BLACK BOTTOM BLUES and for KAMRAN he was after the BAD BAD LEROY BROWN but ROB was up the valley to the RAWTENSTALL ANNUAL FAIR. None of this, however, could beat PETE ROBERTS' SUNSETS before MICK went solo with a new song COUNTED UP TO TEN and ZOE returned to sing one she heard from her Mum JOHNNY BUILT A HOUSE. To finish DAVE BOULTON told us his brush with a LISH YOUNG BUY A BROOM and PAUL, HEATHER & DON celebrated Arthur Marshall's great song FENCES and MARK & JAN rounded off a cracking evening with RUNNING LIKE A TURKEY.    

Newspaper No 315 3 March 2015

This was a top class evening from start to finish with a wide variety of talent performing brilliantly for an almost full house. ED & SUE invited BANJO JOHN to get the ball rolling and he introduced us to FANLIGHT FANNY so all our senses were alight and they were not disappointed. In great form COLIN RUDD sang HELLO IN THERE as FAIR PLAY set off for SANTA GEORGIA and MICK had to confess I'M INTO SOMETHING GOOD. Meanwhile a breathless JAN was after RUNAROUND SUE while more sedately JO confided WHEN I WAS IN MY PRIME before PETE gave us a chilling reminder with HURT (Johnny Cash & Nine Inch Nails). Soon on the ED ED was next off along the VERDIGRIS (Paxton) and still over there JIM & LYNN had got STRIPES which had ROBIN giving his LAST FAREWELL. On the trail of the baddies CARL told us of the BIG FEAR (Jez Lowe) just as PAUL decided to STEP IT UP AND GO but still DON & HEATHER had that PEACEFUL EASY FEELING. However, BANJO JOHN went all religious with JUST OVER IN THE GLORY LAND (Gospel) as JO was out walking ONE MISTY MOISTY MORNING and COLIN was looking for a BETTER PLACE TO BE. Reminding us of the old days CARL advised RICKY DON'T LOSE THAT NUMBER and ROBIN also seeking a rendezvous suggested MEET ME TONIGHT IN LAREDO guided no doubt by FAIR PLAY with their BRIGHT MORNING STAR as JAN encouraged them with HIT THE ROAD JACK.

Another bumper raffle saw Joyce win a CD; Paul take the Wine; Heather win the Olive Oil; Marian go home with the Chocolates; and Joseph take another CD before JIM & LYNN gave us all a warning with MAIDS WHEN YOU'RE YOUNG and MICK also cast a shadow with YOU'VE GOT YOUR TROUBLES I'VE GOT MINE before PAUL put the tine lid on it with DARK AS A DUNGEON. Nothing, however, fazes ED who was EASY AND SLOW as DON & HEATHER set out on the CITY OF NEW ORLEANS and PETE remembered his first trip to Ireland with his own ALEXANDER LIGHTS. After a few weeks MARIAN returned with POLLY PARKER and COLIN said that most of it is MAKE BELIEVE and ROBIN asked ROCK MY CRADLE ONCE AGAIN. Still in good fettle JAN took us off to BUDAPEST as MICK was off saying I WILL but CARL was away flying KITES. In a more bluesy frame of mind PAUL pleaded CORRINA, CORRINA won't you please come home but it seems ED had no trouble attracting TRASHY WOMEN whereas PETE complained he AIN'T GOT A HOME IN THIS WORLD ANY MORE. Heading for a climax JIM & LYNN said all we need is some RARE OLD MOUNTAIN DEW but FAIR PLAY were away on the BANKS OF THE OHIO as FREE SPIRITS combined to have us singing into the street to WAGON WHEEL to end a thoroughly enjoyable evening.

FEBRUARY - 2015

Newspaper No 314 24 February 2015

A totally sublime evening as new faces mingled with old and lapped up the great social mix and excellent entertainment hosted and started off by DON & HEATHER as they confessed they may not have ALL THE ANSWERS. In a world of his own BANJO JOHN was off to the RED RIVER VALLEY while JIM & LYNN were away with PEGGY GORDON and ROBIN was inviting COME HOME PADDY REILLY to come home. More to the point JO asked COME KISS ME LOVE which had PETE running for the FREIGHT TRAIN and SUE blatantly saying DON'T MARRY HER HAVE ME. Quite why but this had GEOFF off and FALLING LOVE AGAIN which made ED think of THE GAMBLER and DAVE BOULTON fantasise about a lady called THE FLOWER OF NORTHUMBERLAND. On a different tack DON & HEATHER had us thinking of the Mexicans trying to get ACROSS THE BORDERLINE into the USA while back home BANJO JOHN was busy CLEANING WINDOWS and GEOFF was musing with the lovely tune HECTOR THE HERO. Running late RICHARD GRAY fell through the door and was immediately invited to perform and he responded with his own MAIN STREET RANT and even JO was somewhat demented with Iris' CALLING FOR YOU as was PETE with his own MELLOR ROAD BOOZING BLUES after the flat he used to live in. Just in time to cheer us up SUE pleaded BRING ME SUNSHINE and JIM & LYNN threatened to TELL MY MA but ROBIN was happier with the true love of JOCK O' HAZELDEAN. Then as we approached the interval with a mini climax DAVE unsheathed his concertina for LORD FRANKLYN and to his amazement was followed ED who had always planned to sing about the amusing antics of JACUZZI JOE (and his funky concertina) to which RICHARD might have replied Lawdy Lawdy but instead sang OH SUSANNAH.

A big raffle of 9 prizes saw a lot of smiling faces before another late arrival PAUL come up with a little known Dylan song GOOD AS I'VE BEEN TO YOU and DAVE sang a song inspired by his elderly Mum, I'M HANGING ON HERE TO THE END which had a good few of us thinking. Fortunately, GEOFF & SUE struck a diverting note with their LADY OF PLEASURE as did ROBIN in a different way with LONG BLACK VEIL and JIM & LYNN who were off after the SPANISH LADY. With his own solution PETE said I'm just waiting for the day when I SHALL BE RELEASED which appealed to RICHARD who was stuck in traffic on his way to the folk club and ROLLING DOWN IN IDLE before ED had everyone marvelling at his BANTHAM COCK which certainly had no time for the TROUBLE IN MIND that PAUL then sang about. Again transporting us, this time to Australia, FREE SPIRITS told us of the DIAMANTINA DROVER while RICHARD reminded us that YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND which didn't stop JIM & LYNN saying goodbye to MUIRSHEEN DURKIN and heading for the gold rush. More leisurely SUE & GEOFF headed off on the SLOOP JOHN B whereas at the altar ED was told to TREAT MY DAUGHTER DECENT and DAVE gave us clear warning not to become ALLERGIC TO WHISKY. A brilliant night!  

Newspaper No 313 17 February 2015

A bumper crowd turned out to help Ann celebrate her birthday with the usual great buffet of excellent sandwiches and chips. JANICE & MICK galvanised the many performers into providing fitting entertainment by leading off as GRASSROOTS with GOING BACK and KATH & STAN responded with DINK'S SONG before EDDIE unveiled his new cello for the FLORAL DANCE. Soon on her feet JO told us of MY LOVELY SON as DAVE BOULTON took to the highlands with LIZZIE LINDSEY and SUE & GEOFF also departed with I'LL FLY AWAY. On the contrary we welcomed back ZOE who invited WON'T YOU COME ON IN just time for ARTHUR'S protest song about the rich THREE LITTLE PIGGIES and to see ROB off to SOUTH AUSTRALIA. For ROBIN it was all BREAD AND FISHES as JOHN CONDY was playing THE HIGHWAYMAN to which BRIAN responded NEVERTHELESS it's a living. DON & HEATHER were metaphorically KNEE DEEP IN A RIVER and dying of thirst as DAVE COWE saw the funny side in THE RAILWAY CARRIAGE DWELLING but PAUL was off to SWEET CAROLINA and GRASSROOTS uprooted to GEORGIA. Coming up to the interval KATH & STAN chased after the WAYFARING STRANGER as JO talked about FAIR AND TENDER LADIES and ARTHUR went dewy eyed over MISS JONES.

Ann & Brian provided the great birthday buffet and in a special raffle Rosaleen won the White wine; Paul won the Prosecco; Sue & Geoff took the Pancakes & lemon; Heather got the Mascot and Gillian went home with some Thorntons Chocolates before JOHN CONDY chased after the GALWAY GIRL. Back to basics ZOE then told us about the ORIGIN OF THE SPECIES to which FREE SPIRITS said it would all be different ON THE NEXT GO ROUND which of course is what genetics is all about. Next our reluctant heroine ANN took the floor with LET ME BE YOUR LADY and GEOFF was quite stern with HE'LL HAVE TO GO before EDDIE celloed the tune HORSE'S BRAWL. Back on form ROB then had us all back in LIVERPOOL TOWN as DAVE BOULTON told us of his fighting dog CHAMPION HE WAS A DANDY and DAVE COWE told us two stories THE SWORD SWALLOWER & WHOOPS. In a flash SUE was up with her ukelele for COUSIN JACK and GRASSROOTS with the link between ENGLISH RAIN and LOOKING FOR THE UNKNOWN SOLDIER. In determined mood PAUL said I AIN'T GONNA BE TREATED THIS WAY and ROBIN was off as a COUNTRY BOY leaving DAVE BOULTON to tell of the Wager in which he nearly lost his LITTLE GREY 'OSS. Coming to a grande finale ZOE was in the BIRDHOUSE, FREE SPIRITS had absolutely NOTHING TO SHOW FOR IT ALL as KATH & STAN led us aboard the TRAIN ON THE ISLAND to take us all home.

Newspaper No 312 10 February 2015

A nice surprise greeted the regulars this week when they arrived to find they were celebrating Dave Boulton’s birthday as PETE go the ball rolling with ONE TOO MANY MORNINGS (Dylan) and JOHN CHILCOTT went all modern with the HAZY SHADE OF WINTER (P Simon) leaving BANJO JOHN to dig in the archives for SWEET GEORGIA BROWN. Another moment in history came from PHIL who was enjoying the best fare at FRANKLYN'S TABLE as JIM & LYNN took us across the sea for the GALWAY SHAWL and even JO had us all LEAVING ON A JET PLANE. Then it was KAMRAN’s turn with a new arrangement of YOUR CHEATING HEART as MARK rocked us with LAY DOWN SALLY before JAN came up with MOLIANNWN. In more lyrical mood CARL had us all humming along with IF WISHES WERE FISHES before KEVIN went a cappella with the story of LORD FRANKLYN but PAUL was more to the point when he sang NOBODY KNOWS YOU WHEN YOU'RE DOWN AND OUT as was DAVE BOULTON when he told us what happens when POVERTY KNOCKS. Next COLIN sang one of his favourites CUT ACROSS SHORTY (Cochran) as did DON & HEATHER with their own pre-celebration of Valentine’s Day I WOULDN'T HAVE IT ANY OTHER WAY while RICHARD GRAY was more circumspect with his IF. Heading for the interval the early birds got a second shot and BANJO JOHN gave us all the SAN FRANCISCO BAY BLUES and JO was equally sombre with WILL THE CIRCLE BE UNBROKEN before JOHN CHILCOTT took us up to the break.

Along with the buffet thanks to Dave and Marina the raffle saw the Prosecco go to Alan who gave it to Dave for his birthday who then donated it for next week’s raffle; the Jumping Jacks to Barry; Chardonnay to Joan; the Moisturiser to Heather; the Chocolates to next week’s birthday girl Ann; the CD to Alan and the Water Bottle to Paul. 

Who better to start the second half then COLIN with his own ALL THE WAY FROM VALPARAISO (I will watch you when you go) and LYNN & JIM responded well with A MON LIKE THEE as did PETE with his own WHOLE LIFE THROUGH. Again KEVIN was brilliant with his a cappella GREY FUNNEL LINE as was DAVE BOULTON with his own dietary advice 5 A DAY and KAMRAN played up a storm with DEATH LETTER BLUES. Again with his own song RICHARD sang about the LADY OF THE MORNING as JAN & MARK chased after the little RED ROOSTER which left PHIL trying to CATCH THE WIND to which PAUL replied MAY THE ROAD RISE TO MEET YOU. There was no road, however, when the three spirits HEATHER, DON & PAUL set out on THE WESTERN PLAINS and it was probably a boreen green where LYNN & JIM were with the STAR OF THE COUNTY DOWN and DAVE BOULTON with his own dedication to the sessions THE MUSIC & THE CRAIC. Reaching for a fine finish JAN & MARK hit the spot with the rousing BONNY SHIP THE DIAMOND followed by PHIL with THE WELL and the three spirits HEATHER, DON & PAUL rounding up the flock with THE DIAMONTINA DROVER. Top class evening and thanks again to Dave & Marina.

Newspaper No 311 3 February 2015

Despite the cold weather 4 dozen people turned out to have a good time with ROBIN & PAUL who hosted at least 20 performers to entertain even more listeners as ROBIN headed down the road with BOBBY McGEE. With even older material BANJO JOHN took us back with SHINE as did JIM & LYNN with YELLOW IS THE COLOUR before PHIL gave us one of his historical songs about the Middle East in LEAGUE OF NATIONS. Deep in the tradition FAIR PLAY went for the NIGHT VISITING SONG as JO claimed he was KILLING ME SOFTLY with his song before GRASS ROOTS sang about ELIZABETH. After discovering one in his garden EDDY celebrated with THE FOX and GEOFF & SUE celebrated the SUMMERTIME just as PETER announced TONIGHT I'LL BE STAYING HERE WITH YOU which we were all grateful for. Again going back in time GRAEME treated us to his interpretation of STACK-O-LEE just as DON & HEATHER were deciding they were PAST THE POINT OF RESCUE and ERIC was claiming JE SUIS CHARLIE. Then MICK came out alone searching for MR TAMBOURING MAN as PAUL boarded the OLD 97 and BANJO JOHN had us all joining in with the ST LOUIS BLUES. All this brought JO to her feet for the SOUND OF SILENCE and EDDY unbuckled his melodeon for the HUNTSMAN'S CHORUS leaving FAIR PLAY to say GOODNIGHT LOVING TRAIL.

After a great raffle all donate to "Help for Heroes" ROBIN opened the second half with THE BATTLE IS OVER before JIM & LYNN explained when AN OLD MAN CAME COURTING as ERIC tried TO MAKE YOU FEEL MY LOVE but I'm not interested SUE said WHEN I'M CLEANING WINDOWS. From back in 1983 PHIL then came out with SUNDAY BLOODY SUNDAY (U2) as GRASS ROOTS turned in anticipation to AUTUMN LEAVES and EDDY turned to O'CAROLAN'S DRAUGHT leaving GRAEME to delve deep for his SUGAR PUDDING & RAG MAMA. Next PETER claimed it's NOT FOR YOU but DON & HEATHER went ahead with their own DANCES FOR DOLLARS and GEOFF led a band up for ONE FOR THE ROAD as MICK claimed SHE BELONGS TO ME. Finally we could feel the crescendo as PAUL invited us to TAKE 'EM AWAY followed by FAIR PLAY with NOWHERE MAN and GEOFF & SUE rightly claiming THIS IS THE LIFE which left GRASS ROOTS to set about BRINGING ON ALL THE GOOD TIMES which they well and truly did as we whistled our way into the street.
 

JANUARY - 2015

Newsletter No 310 27 January 2015

The house was full with a great bunch of people who came to celebrate Heather's Birthday in style so thanks to them all and to FAIR PLAY, aka Ruth, Kath & Stan, who conducted the proceedings brilliantly. Asked to start the singing DON & HEATHER were soon PAST THE POINT OF RESCUE but JOHN CHILCOTT remembered WHEN WE WERE GOOD as FAIR PLAY went even further back to see THE WEAVER'S DAUGHTER. Next DAVE BOULTON after chatting with Mike Cosgrave remembered his own song THE SESSION SLIPS AND SLIDES but still BANJO JOHN had those DALLAS BLUES before CARL brightened things up with GREEK LIGHTENING. Still sombre JO went back in time for THE GALWAY SHAWL but GEOFF & SUE insisted PLEASE DON'T TELL ME HOW THE STORY ENDS and even POET DAVE can only hope for peace in LONDONDERRY. For the next one JIM was sol as he greeted the JANUARY MAN and the welcome return of COLIN had him singing a Harvey Andrew song ABOUT A DUCK before EDDIE played the melodeon for PLANXTY IRWIN & FANNY POWER by O'Carolan. Back from Fuerteventura Janice with Mick aka GRASS ROOTS came up with a nice version of FACTORY GIRL and PAUL had singing along with TELL OLD BILL followed by CHRIS with THE TRAWLERMAN'S SONG. Next ROBIN had us drinking WATERMELON WINE and DAVE COWE told us of WINTER by R Burns but ED frightened the daylights out of us with THE HAGGIS HUNTER. Coming to a climax PETE was WILLING but RICHARD GRAY, after leading us in "Happy Birthday" told us LOVE IS A GAME but more sternly MIKE COSGRAVE sang us MICK RYAN'S LAMENT.

With the buffet and chips coming in on time much craic, viewing of birthday cards and opening of gratefully received presents took place before the raffle saw BAZ win the Wine; EDDIE win the bag of nuts; PAUL win the Olive Oil; and HELEN take home the Chocolates.

JIM & LYNN then led us out for the second half with THE LEAVING OF LIVERPOOL and FAIR PLAY took a quick CENSUS before GEOFF told us it was TWILIGHT TIME which left RICHARD with the SAN FRANCISCO BAY BLUES. Hope for Greece leaving the EU had COLIN proposing A TOAST TO FIDEL but GRASS ROOTS quickly claimed IT AIN'T ME BABE and for PETE they might just as well be DOWN WHERE THE DRUNKARDS ROLL but for SUE there's a KIND OF HUSH certainly in Europe at the moment. Well done the Greeks!! Next we had Elvis turning in his grave as EDDIE brilliantly grabbed his hit DON'T BE CRUEL for the melodeon which also had PAUL of somewhere SITTING ON TOP OF THE WORLD but MIKE COSGRAVE was celebrating another birth in the family with his WONDERCHILD. Still with Burns DAVE COWE recited OUR HOLY WILLIE to which ROBIN responded with the ROSE OF ALLENDALE and CHRIS seemed to feel the same about NAOMI. To bring a great evening to a close and Heather saying it felt like a real birthday DAVE BOULTON celebrated JOHN BLUNT as ED was trying to learn to play the guitar with ROMANCE but to send everyone into the streets singing DON, HEATHER & PAUL called on Arthur Marshall to return soon as they sang his FENCES with strong chorusing.

Newsletter No 309 20 January 2015

Continuing with another room full of talent new and old to entertain the eager audience hosts MARK & JAN first took everyone off in their 30 FOOT TRAILER. Next up PAUL asked to tell him WHAT'S THE MATTER WITH THE MILL before BRIAN enquired WHAT'LL I DO as PHIL set off to find the NORTH WEST PASSAGE. Much closer to home FAIR PLAY were in

BYKER HILL but ED was in Ireland with the story of RED HEADED ANNE but JIM said LET IT BE. On a different level BANJO JOHN told the story of the woman who said I WANT A BUTTER AND EGG MAN and newcomer GRAEME McGRATH responded by saying IT AIN'T NOBODY'S BUSINESS BUT MY OWN. Then ROBIN came up with some MEMORIES OF MARYLAND before KATHIE and MARK with flute and whistle played a great duet of the SPANISH CLOAK before DAVE BOULTON bade FAREWELL TO TARWATHIE, Jim Clarke's favourite song. POET DAVE, with THE LIGHTHEARTED MAIDEN, then celebrated the lighthouses at Larne just as DON & HEATHER suggested MAY YOU NEVER and EDDIE was ON OLDHAM'S BURNING SANDS. Another newcomer, GEORGE, then bemoaned THE COST OF A RING in his own song and CARL told us of the female ship’s captain who was ALL AT SEA leaving VINCENT to perform a brilliant WALKING BLUES and ERIC to give us his latest JE SUIS CHARLIE as BANJO JOHN lined up HELLO DOLLY before FAIR PLAY said the LAST GOODBYE before the interval.

A grand raffle had lots of prizes before EDDIE unsheathed his melodeon for the PRIMROSE POLKA. BRIAN then invited us to TIE A YELLOW RIBBON but FREE SPIRITS were on the road with WAGON WHEEL as was PHIL after chasing the BLACK VELVET BAND. Delighted with the audience singing GRAEME went for the LAST THING ON MY MIND and GEORGE sang a friend’s HOLBECK BLUES FAIR before KATHIE blew us away with SUMMER WINE. Equally moving was JIM’s version of PERHAPS LOVE but ED’s POISON was a rather alarming tale leaving JAN to put things right with LAGGAN LOVE. Back in his old stamping ground CARL was at THE BATTLE OF TRAFALGAR, a pub, while PAUL was in America with STAGGER LEE but DAVE BOULTON decided to treat us to his own NIGHT THE ROYAL CHARTER WENT DOWN. Coming to a climax VINCENT went off to the MOTION PICTURES, ERIC went to sea with THE ANCIENT MARINER, FREE SPIRITS were off with the RAMBLING BOY before MARK & JAN tidied things up with THE END OF THE LINE to end a cracking evening. 

Newsletter No 308 13 January 2015

Another full room greeted hosts ED & SUE with Terry and his entourage up from Cornwall and newcomer Vincent all receiving a great reception.before BANJO JOHN amazed us with his rendition of the TIGER RAG for full orchestra in three different keys all supplied by the master himself. This prompted PETE to want to SHOWER THE PEOPLE while TERRY was off to CALEDONIA and JO was in sympathy with the RAMBLING BOY. Somehow this triggered CARL to remember SISTER JOSEPHINE with PHIL fancying the BROKEN FREEDOM SONG with his croaky voice and ROB dedicating MARTIN SAID TO HIS MAN to keeping his namesake awake. There was a fairly new one for ROBIN was MEET ME TONIGHT IN LAREDO as LYNN & JIM quietly stole the LONG BLACK VEIL from him but PAUL was the pacifist inviting everyone to COME ON UP TO THE HOUSE. This was too far to come for SUE & GEOFF who were off on the CITY OF NEW ORLEANS as it was for JAN & MARK who were in ROTTERDAM but DON & HEATHER were up for it at the DIMMING OF THE DAY. Then a wonderful surprise came when first timer VINCENT gave us a great REASON TO BELIEVE which had RICHARD GRAY suggesting LET'S START OVER AGAIN but BANJO JOHN with BARRY on harmonica went for the CAROLINA MOON and JO decided to hit THIS OLD ROAD. Heading to the break TERRY was THE HIGHWAYMAN as PETE celebrated it bringing out THE BEST IN ME.

The usual bumper raffle saw wine, CD's, magic candles etc flying in all directions before VINCENT confessed he had the BAR STOOL BLUES and RICHARD told us he was COMING IN FROM THE STORM to which ROB told us ALL'S WELL, Trevor Morton's Mill Outing. Sneaking up on the quiet side GEOFF then gave us his own excellent version of IN MY LIFE by the Beatles which had JAN & MARK hurtling of to JACKSON and ROBIN searching through the annals for just another WINTER'S TALE. Back to his roots JIM with LYNN were supping WHISKY IN THE JAR while PHIL was in the PALACE OF VERSAILLES but CARL was underground seeking BLACK DIAMONDS. Unhappily PAUL sang of CARELESS LOVE but DON & HEATHER countered with Robin Laing's happy love song to his wife, BLACK CLOTHES. A big finish in view MARK & JAN enlisted for the BLUE COCKADE while TERRY sang his song for his son, RYAN'S SONG, as LYNN & JIM were with the NIGHT VISITING SONG. A little known Pete Morton song from CARL was THANKSGIVING before PETE played the legendary YOUR SONG by E John and DON, HEATHER & PAUL explained how they washed their hands in MUDDY WATER.

Newsletter No 307 6 January 2015

A great full house which was jammed to the doors with visitors from as far away as Paris, the Algarve and spiritually from the west coast of Ireland so a brilliant night was kicked off under protest with STREETS OF LONDON from DON & HEATHER which paradoxically received great vocal support and got everyone in the mood. JIM & LYNN then told us that BLACK IS THE COLOUR as DAVE BOULTON ran off with SALLY WHEATLEY but BANJO JOHN was disinterestedly LEANING ON A LAMPOST. No wonder ROBIN declared IT'S GOOD TO BE BACK HOME AGAIN and CARL was off SINGING THE AGES DOWN but BRIAN was saying SORRY SEEMS TO BE THE HARDEST WORD. It needed no guessing what was on PAUL'S mind with MAKE ME DOWN A PALLET ON YOUR FLOOR and FAIR PLAY were clear with DIG'S SONG as was SUE when she sang IF FRIDAY I'M IN LOVE. In reply GEOFF reckoned he had seen it ALL BEFORE but DAVID hoped it would different in LONDONDERRY and KAMRAN had enough on his mind as he was GOING TO BROWNSVILLE. That was too far for MIKE COSGRAVE & CLARE RIGBY who were AT THE IRISH SESSION followed by a tune THE TEETOTALLER as BANJO JOHN replied with SOME OF THESE DAYS which PAUL said SOUNDS SO SWEET. Not always warned DAVE BOULTON who explained the useful wiles of women in THE DEVIL AND THE FEATHERY WIFE but in what was a man's world CARL sang his own song about THE 1710 train before JIM & LYNN took us to the break with the FOLSOM PRISON BLUES.

Much chat and a big raffle later FAIR PLAY got us underway with WATER BOUND with ROBIN claiming to have that PEACEFUL EASY FEELING which according to KAMRAN you get if you TEACH YOUR CHILDREN WELL but not the same as JOYCE THE LIBRARIAN sang BRIAN. Just then SUE lifted everyone even higher with BRING ME SUNSHINE and GEOFF confessed he was OVER MY MOUNTAIN and MIKE & CLARE proceeded to STEP IT UP MARY followed by the SWEETNESS OF MARY on the flute. GEOFF was reminded of the BROWN EYED GIRL but PAUL was still talking to JESUS ON THE MAINLINE as JIM & LYNN were following the GYPSY ROVER. Further afield ROBIN was in DENVER and FAIR PLAY were 500 MILES away but KAMRAN was describing his week starting ON A MONDAY. Building to a climax MIKE & CLARE needed ROOTS but DAVE BOULTON said LET SLEEPING DOGS LIE which is what DON & HEATHER did as they led a great choir of us singing into the street to STEAL AWAY home.

DECEMBER - 2014

NOVEMBER - 2014

Newsletter No 302 25 November 2014

It was a bright, lively evening to the end of November with ROBIN & PAUL ensuring a great time for everyone. ROBIN got the ball rolling on to DENVER and JIM & LYNN were soon on their travels with the LEAVING OF LIVERPOOL as IAN shot over to the Wirral for WHISKY ON A SUNDAY. Next PAUL invited us to WALK RIGHT IN because as GRASSROOTS said we are STANDING ON THE EDGE OF ETERNITY but as far as SUE was concerned she was off with BLACK JACK DAVY. On a different level PETE said he wanted to MAKE YOU FEEL MY LOVE but again JO was off with a WAYFARING STRANGER but CHRIS was at least steadfast in being a PIPER TO THE END. Another lady a bit wayward was MARIAN who claimed to be THE FEMALE SMUGGLER but GEOFF was more testosterone fuelled with ARTHUR McBRIDE as DON & HEATHER settled it all down with permission from Arthur Marshall to sing his FENCES. Describing how some of us felt ED gave us the details of his BRONCHIOLE DILATOR BLUES but ARTHUR just kept his eye on the HORIZON, another of his sensitive songs, before JIM & LYNN razzed it up with THE WILD ROVER. After this it was no wonder JO fancied THE SOUND OF SILENCE but KAMRAN wasn't sure with the HESITATION BLUES, however, CHRIS said get on with it 'cos YOU WON'T MAKE OLD BONES. Singing another version of a great song SUE hit us with Dylan's WAGON WHEEL just as GEOFF went off after a LADY OF PLEASURE to take us nicely to the interval.

The Raffle saw Sue return for the Wine, Rosalyn take Nuts & nut crackers, Marian wisely fancy the winter Wind Screen Cover and Ian go home with the Christmas Pudding before GRASSROOTS get us restarted with I WISH I KNEW HOW TO BE FREE. Going solo JIM sang the very romantic PLAY ME as IAN was equally sentimental about trains with the CITY OF NEW ORLEANS and ARTHUR was in similar mood HOW I LOVE THE LITTLE CHILDREN until we realised he liked them in a stew. No wonder PETE then came up with WHEN THE LIGHTS GO OUT but KAMRAN immediately thought Beatles with I'VE JUST SEEN HIS FACE and MARIAN saw the funny side with WHAT SHALL I WEAR TO THE WEDDING. Thinking of migrant workers DON & HEATHER reckoned they are always thinking of when they will be ROLLING HOME and on a similar tack PAUL gave us THIS LAND IS MY LAND and ROBIN was in the same mood with IT'S GOOD TO BE BACK HOME AGAIN. It must have been catching because GRASSROOTS insisted on BRINGING ON BACK THE GOOD TIMES before CHRIS broke the spell with Mark Knopfler's THE TRAWLERMAN'S SONG. Getting towards that time GEOFF asked, of no one in particular, SAVE THE LAST DANCE FOR ME to which SUE replied that she was an URBAN SPACEMAN and KAMRAN exclaimed OH GLORY HALLELUJAH. Finally PETE confessed he had a HEART LIKE A WHEEL before DON, HEATHER, PAUL & ROBIN told us ALL THE GOOD TIMES ARE PAST AND GONE so we needed to hit the road and return next week when it will be December and a month of non-stop partying in Sale folk Club!!