As I write this week’s column, I can feel the excitement beginning to well up inside. I’m going to a gig tonight. It often seems incredible to me that after 45 years of regular gig attendance, I still get childishly excited about the whole affair. Tonight, it’s Chuck Prophet at the Portland Arms in Cambridge, and despite many close-run things, it’s remarkably, a venue I have not been to before. So then the mental checklist begins. Is there parking? Have I printed the tickets (no phone nonsense for me what if it was nicked or died or….?) Have I got cash for merch, etc? What time are the doors? Is there a support act?
These are all prior to departure. Once in the venue, it all becomes about position. Where to stand, or sit? I used to go to many gigs with a friend who was 6ft 11″ tall and it quickly became clear that the only place we could safely stand was with our backs to the sound desk otherwise we were pelted with detritus as people objected to this behemoth blocking any potential view. Mark has moved away so must again fight his own battles but positioning in a gig remains a constant source of vague apprehension. Some regular haunts have designated places (applied by me) that if I don’t get I am slightly miffed. The Forum, Kentish Town, for example, is where I like to stand behind the sound desk and lean on the rail. Great view, perfect sound, and no one able to move in front of you (apart from the time Patterson Hood wandered in to watch The Alabama Shakes. He’s a big lad I didn’t say anything.) The Electric Ballroom – in front of the sound desk leaning against the rail. The Junction Cambridge – stage left near the front. Shepherd’s Bush Empire on the mezzanine balcony against railings.
It all appears to be about the view and the quality of the sound. I’m not saying my mosh pit days are gone but these days I might need something to lean on at some stage. A pillar in the Roundhouse, maybe. I once had the best seats in the house at the Hammersmith Apollo. Three rows back in the middle. I spent the entire evening watching Todd Rundgren‘s lunchbox moving from side to side in his black tights (see photo – do not zoom in!). Be careful what you wish for…
This week in anticipation there’s been some Chuck and for no discernable reason The Nude Party. The radio show has lots of new stuff including Hurray for the Riff Raff, Patterson Hood, The Minus 5, Wilder Woods and many more. As ever…
I love Shepherds Bush. Apart from the people on the stairs who absolutely refuse to move when you need to go up them.
The smaller venues like Oslo, the Half Moon and the Lexington are the best. And finally a minutes silence for the demise of the Borderline
Ahhh the Borderline !As it turned out I needed all my strategies the Portland was oversold and very very full some might say dangerously so but we were positioned well and had a great view despite the crush
The pleasure of seeing Chuck at The Brudenell in Leeds was immeasurable. My first visit to a legendary venue. Perfect sound, banging atmosphere, cask ales and the perfect spot, about 3 lines back and centre stage. A truly memorable evening!
Excellent news. Glad you had a great time.