The On Tourist

Chelmsford 10.11.04 First night of the tour and no direction nor arrival problems in fact we're early, almost too early, so we loiter with intent in the Plough pub, just over the road from the venue. The soundcheck is not till 7pm which is later than usual so we trip off and eat the most disgusting of fast food in a place called Burger City, home to the original Bean n Grease burger and to be avoided if at all possible, should you ever feel remotely tempted. Then to a sound check of classic improvisational style, it's Ben Knotts first gig with us and naturally he's having all sorts or volume problems with the amp he's borrowed. Once that's sorted everyone is happy. The Basement Club is not surprisingly in one where we're warmly greeted by Paul and Jackie, promoters of tonight's show. They're expecting a good crowd. We have more drinks in a local pub n snug returning to catch the second half of The Brights set which is most impressive in a taut n frenzied Beatles meets Roddy Frame kind of way, with some great three part pop-do-wop harmony singing. The guitar players hair is so tall n spiky it causes a static build up on the low ceiling as sparks fly in every direction. A good thing. The place is now suitably rammed [to use the rock n roll vernacular]. We're on at 10.25 and the show goes really well, the sound is great and the audience sweet and interactive, I get into the usual meaningful versus meaningless banter and somehow get away with it. There's a DIY girl about the house with her own set of chisels and a cordless power drill. Impressive! I am temporarily speechless. Afterwards we have a natter whilst selling CD's and signing a huge sheet that is apparently not heading for e bay? This was a great tour opener, so thanks be to all who gave us such a warm n friendly reception,VPx Andy,Ben Knott, Mike, Jeff and Ben Cooke supping up in snugsville.