Posted: 07 November 2007 at 8:28am | IP Logged

What a fantastic time was had at Rogerthorpe Manor last night although the weather turned nasty towards the end of the evening (joke) very foggy it didn’t dampen everyone’s enjoyment.

I must say the reservations that have been muted elsewhere where not in evidence and I have to say that this performance was up there with some of the best ATF gigs from the past

TWO (Turner Winfield Originals) were very good and best wishes to them as they work on their Album (debut one I think)

Rob Dunshire’s poetry was a real hoot especially the one about Roger Moore

Highlights for me were Pilgrim, Help, Laser Love, Take Me Higher & Are We Alright (Show Of Hands) cover

Lowlights not hearing Joy

Finally can I have what John was on – what a performance and many thanks to Rob Hare for promoting the gig

David

Posted: 07 November 2007 at 7:45pm | IP Logged

Great show, for several reasons apart from the expected 'highs'. I won't spoil it by giving away all the tracks, though. It started with an intriguing, innovative and memorable presentation of the opening number, first John, then etc, with fantastic crescendo from Matt! I loved the fact there were four tracks from the Batteries album, with an interesting account upon how one came to be written - I never thought I'd hear three of those tracks again. There was also good reasoning in the use of the track from ATF2, and memorable presentation of that. The patter was as good as ever - "and now a medley of our greatest HIT (sic)", being an hilarious example. And the closing songs were naturally magnificent, with fantastic lighting, especially for my 14 year old son. I suspect there was no time for "Joy" as we overran on the hotel schedule.

Sorry to brag, but I even had "Help!" sung and dedicated to me: my wife asked Banksy in the interval cos it was a birthday treat, and he recognised my name from a post of mine. That was so special, as I believe that song even displaces "Joy". It's just amazing, so innovative, yet so enduring, and such poignant Beatles lyrics to have made a point about (which even Beatles fans probably don't hear properly i.e. it was a cry for help!).

In the request spot, I wished I'd shouted out "Rich Boys". Perhaps the lyrics have aged somewhat, however it's such fun to hear. Please ATF bear in mind, together with every other song you've yet to reintroduce! By the way, I get the impression that perhaps some songs need more introduction re the Album etc? And the reason they came into being? Mind you, it's not a lecture, is it?!

Keep touring, because this is good, purposeful, creative music.

Posted: 08 November 2007 at 8:48am | IP Logged

Dear L***man80f.

I am so glad you enjoyed the gig on Tuesday, as someone who couldn't get there due to not being able to get time off work and being on a late shift, I am grateful for being able to read you comments.

I do, however, agree with my friend Pushbikemike that the lack of Joy is a great shock and whereas I forgive the band for not playing it this tour, I would like to think it will be highlighted on the next tour. I was informed of some of the finer details from my good friend Timey about the rest of the gig although I didn't hear his thoughts on Take Me Higher - my favourite song. As for Help displacing Joy, a phrase involving soap and mouth comes to mind! If Dixarn reads this, I'll hold his coat!