Winnie :-)

A TALE OF TWO DITTYS. I'm very much aware that ditty is not the correct word, but it allowed me a literary reference, just to remind me the following is just the usual Sunday morning wibble. If it helps sing the words as you read them, or hum if your vocal abilities resemble my own. The title refers to 2 reviews of last night's outing. The first is for the busy, 'White Rabbit' types who undoubtedly have a huge list of chores to perform and every minute counts, in the interest of diversity, it also caters for those with a diagnosed short attention span. REVIEW 1 I went to the Bletsoe reunion last night, it was bloody brilliant, I'm home now!! REVIEW 2. This one is mainly written for me, and anyone who finds themself in a similar fugue state on completion of an all-nighter. I'm afraid I make no apologies for what will probably be a fairly long meandering ramble, it allows me to unwind, and cleanse my mind of words that are clogging up an already ailing thought process. Plus, you don't have to read it, that's what REVIEW 1 is for. So I woke up Saturday morning, contemplating just why I hadn't gone to Bridlington, that is absolutely no reflection on Bletsoe, just one of those 'bugger I'm envious' moments after reading all the posts on events ''oop tha' way'' so far. RobWicks is that remotely Yorksherian, no worries if it isn't, I'm coming to Brid next year for definite, so you'll be able to correct any shortcomings, don't do it via punches to the arms though, linguistic correction will be fine you big bear Back to Bletsoe. I didn't go the first time around, so wasn't exactly sure what to expect, I've read and been told a lot about it, but obviously you have to experience it for yourself, or in this case, experience the closest thing to it, which was the reunion. IF YOU WEREN'T THERE LAST NIGHT, YOU CAN MISS OUT THIS NEXT BIT I got there pretty much as it was starting, parked the car in a field, noted, with a sigh of relief the lack of Massey Fergusons and stepped into the unknown. It was indeed a barn, bales of straw providing seating all around the stone dance floor, an area with seating and next to it a barbecue. There was already quite a few in, saw that Sandra Crawley had commandeered a table and a 'special seat', and made my way over. The bag was immediately plonked under someone's seat, I think Alison Smalley's and said some quick hellos. This is always quite a dangerous operation, but I'm going to try to recall who was there, because everyone of them was good company when I wasn't dancing, and made me smile, in a good way. Dave Crawley, who gave me a booklet on the sounds broken/played at Bletsoe from 1970, which I'm actually going to read.Steve Heinsen who's been floating about on the northern scene this time around from about the same time as I returned, so always good for a reminisce, his partner Linda Doe, Mick and Debbie Lewin, Mick just got to say at this point, you're a really top lad, and I like the way you no longer feel obliged to pummel me, when I get a bit cheeky, aren't we grown up these days Alison's other half John 'the gentleman', Smalley, Clint andSteph Dennis. Interesting chat Steph, and although it might not have sounded like it, I understand completely where you're coming from, been there and done the same thing xx Maureen Walker Mc Farlane who's a pleasure to dance alongside, and who she says she's going to ''dance her ass off'', she's not kidding like emoticon Chris and Olly 'The lens' Pearson who must have taken 400 photographs at least, but along with the other photographers, Kevin Wood, Steph, Steve H and Dave C, will provide an indelible memory of a fantastic night for those of us in attendance. Steve Brown, the man behind the reunion, who should be duly proud of his efforts. Long time mate, and still top quality DJ Glenn Bellamy, who's another gentleman and answered all my questions even though they seemed incessant. His lovely wife Pia. Daryn Etherington who I actually got time to have a pleasant chat to, although she did warn me about crying wolf hahaha her friend Josie. It's at this point I wish I had a fucking dicta-phone, was chatting to a lad who I thought said his name was Col and that he was on my friends list. Clearly hearing isn't my strongpoint, so apologies buddy. He's a decent dancer and he was there with his sister also a very elegant dancer and her bloke (he was from Huddersfield).Julia and her husband, Corfu buddies like emoticon Esmond Morgan, Barry Lookerstill burning up the dance floor, Tony Adamson, and Phil Attley. Personally I thought the atmosphere crackled along from start to finish, once the dancing started, which was pretty quickly, it continued throughout the night, there weren't loads of left at the end, but those that were, would happily have carried on, it was just that sort of night. Incredibly friendly vibe, it was clear that some of those there, probably only bring themselves out to the reunion, (just an observation, might not be correct) and just love meeting up with old friends. It was actually a pleasure to witness, and reminded me very much of the King's Hall, when my generation all seem to congregate and burble excitedly about the past, guess it's just an occupational hazard with northern soul As mentioned earlier the dance floor was stone, but it didn't make any difference, a quick blast of talc made it very danceable, as did the stuff Esmond was throwing down, I didn't catch the name but it was basically some sort of slidefuckingquick that did exactly what it said on whatever it was contained in I doubt there were many records I didn't know, but it was still very much back to school, for me. Years of associating certain records with venues, were dismissed as Bletsoe had already played them. It was very much an eye opener, and someone with a keener interest than my own in what was played where, would have been in their element, that said, I was actually enthralled at times, I'm easily pleased eh. The night really sped along, and I can't say anymore than it was an experience that I'm really glad I've had, and I'd definitely go back for more, the next time it's on like emoticon You'd think this would really finish there, but there's an after story. Late arrival to the soiree Derek Smiley fancied a coffee, as did I, so he in his naivety suggested we find somewhere. He hadn't reckoned on 2 things, my ability to get lost (he has a little of the same talent) and my inability to shut up I suggested McDonalds, which I know is nearby, but suddenly realised my directional capabilities were somewhat impaired, as I looked at the gate to the road, I had not a clue which way to go. Derek jumped in, said he knew a nearby services, so I said fine, I'll follow you. Blind leading the blind comes to mind, as we drove almost to Kettering, me following behind giggling, because I was suddenly aware of what it must be like to rely on me for a route. We finally got to the motorway where this fabled services was situated, only to find that the road had been closed for ''important roadworks''. This also made me chuckle, but I'd probably have found (thinking of putting this bit in brackets) funny at that point, so there was recognition that the thought processes had secretly slid down a very steep hill, and weren't about to reappear anytime soon... don't be so judgemental. So we decided to change direction, and headed back to McDonalds. I treated Derek to a spontaneous tour of Ringstead, as I managed to get utterly lost and turned the wrong way. Didn't really care at this point, but somehow found my way back to the main drag, and we duly arrived at Mcdonalds. We actually had a really useful chat, talked about the northern soul scene today, the impact of the internet on it and loads of other stuff. The description is clearly sketchy as I doubt either of us can recall the topics covered, but I think I've got away with it. I finally released Derek after 3 hours, and sped home to 'relax', by writing this. Soz. Derek you're good company bud, pleasure to spend time with you like emoticon It would appear I have reached the relaxed unwound state I aspired to lol.

So 24 hours or so after the event, I thought it would be right and proper to put together a few words to reflect the weekender as a whole. For those with a short attention span, it was absolutely unforgettable, and all in all BRILLIANT!! For anybody else who can firstly forgive my propensity to waffle at a moment's notice, and who like a little more detail as they've managed to move beyond the attention span of a goldfish, the following Over the last decade and a half, those of us who are out almost every week, can't have failed to notice the upsurge in cliques, personally I put it down to (amongst other things) a glut of local soul nights, and our generation finally coming to terms with the internet and technology in general, I leave myself out of the latter reason, as too many people can attest differently. So BANG along comes a weekender (and I appreciate there are many foreign weekenders, but I'm purely concentrating on this one) that bucks the trend. We flew in from all over Great Britain, descending on Benitzes like the proverbial plague of locusts, and not for one instant did I, and I can only speak for me, but can say what I was witnessing, see anybody that wasn't happy to mix with anyone. I'm not sure how the locals viewed this to start with, but I'm pretty sure by the end, we'd converted them to Britishness lol. First thing, the weather, it was 25 degrees and above virtually every day, and we all know sunshine releases happy endorphins, this may not be factually correct, but I'm counting on the fact, that nobody can really be asked to google what I've said to make sure So we're all in a good place from day 1, Thursday evening was a mixture of Greek culture, followed by an impromptu northern night, so the dancing began, and this was in the hotel itself, the venue was yet to be unveiled. Friday, Saturday and Sunday was all at the 'Stadium', a very large arena that if this event grows in the way I think it should and will, can accommodate many more of us. Friday was just immense, pure joy on people's faces, not something you witness every day, and a coming together that was reminiscent of the old days, as previously mentioned no cliques, just a complete morphing together by everyone there. No one-upmanship on show, which helped define the incredible atmosphere. The room was big enough for us all to dance when we wanted, and retire to the pool area to rest and chat, and I know it sounds corny but I don't care, the sound of laughter was the dominant feature outside, making the night, and the mood unforgettable. For me, it was up there with any night I've attended over the last 10 years, I was so comfortable and in my element, and I saw nobody feeling any different. The Saturday, the huge upstairs arena was opened up, to be honest the way it was set out, it was too big for us, especially as the modern room was also on downstairs, but I talked to Amanda Bradford (The Promoter and person mainly behind the event) and she'd already spotted there needed to be a little tweaking. We also spoke on the way home, and Mandy confirmed, that things were already in place to improve what was already a startlingly good event. So back to the night, musically, something for everyone, so wherever you are on the northern scene, a newish returnee or a 'Justified and Ancient' it wasn't long before you'd hear something you'd just have to dance to. The hotel owner graciously allowed the downstairs room to carry on until 3 every morning (against Greek law) so the best of both worlds was musically available. Onto the Sunday, a party night to compare to any I've been to at any weekender and I've attended a few, it was firstly meant to finish at 11, but the enthusiasm of the dancers and maybe the consumption of alcohol, had a little to do with it as well, meant we finally left the venue around 3 in the morning. The 4 days were a blur, entertaining, enjoyable and as I've said absolutely unforgettable, please feel free to mentally affix the appropriate profanity before the aforementioned descriptive words for emphasis, I suggest starting with an F perhaps hahaha In conclusion, I spoke to a lot of people at the weekender, and can safely say everyone enjoyed it from start to finish, it was a 'memory factory' and I think production was high this weekend. It takes a lot these days for me to be bothered to put pen to paper, this weekender poked me in the eye and demanded I do, well done Amanda, a job well done!!!

Forgive typos please, using my phone rather than a computer tongue emoticon Skegness weekender and where to start? I could begin with a gushing wordy review of the music, venue, promoters, value for money, DJS, committed PROPER soul fans.... but I've done that many times in the past, and somethings are a given, and ever consistent. This is Skeg, the dancers dance, that's what they've come here for, novel idea that hopefully will catch on at nighters across the country. Wierdly, they smile and appear to be enjoying themselves, almost certainly part of that feeling of belonging which prevails, but then what would you expect from an event, where the promoters Donna Dean, Micheal D Cooper and David Raistrick meet you as you go in. Through the night they'll ask whether you're enjoying yourself, maybe a few other events might follow this template but that's asking a lot of northern's stand perfectly still evolvement, with the notable exception of Cleethorpes!! The most refreshing thing? There is a lack of Billy Bigbolloxity politics, Skeg clashed with another event, there was no wringing of hands, or snide digs, just acceptance that this occurs, and a willingness to try and avoid similar happening in the future. So much for not being wordy lol. Musically, Soul Sam, Arthur Fenn, Bob Snow, Dick Krop, Steve Guarnori,Andy Powell, amongst many others, create the "Behave, all in the same venue, at the same time" wonderment, and this really is testament to their quality that I need say nothing more on that topic. So to the thing I really want to get off my chest. In the era of "The fast buck, and fuck the punters", a venue that actively keeps piss heads out, and shows true ethical nous. Numbers were down, couldn't be missed really, an opportunity to swell the crowd with 40 local topers would have been gleefully accepted at lesser venues, NOT HERE!!! They were turned away, we were put first, and that is the definition of ethics in my book, and one of the things that will keep me returning. This one act was so appreciated, and I can say hand on heart, that whilst we as punters chatted about the numbers, not a single person said that they DIDN'T enjoy the weekender. A lot is written about the state of the soul scene, but looking at it objectively, mostly by people with an agenda. Their own venue, their own egos are clearly in play, and IMO they are only paying lip service to the northern scene. A lot like to "be seen" at whatever flavour venue is fashionable, it's incredibly shallow, The Grand Central, Skegness is an oasis, on the arid tundra, FFS quench your thirst properly!! Oh, I danced a lot

Seems a fair bit since read a review from Winston , but as just passed on his look back to last nites St Ives reunion, looks like back in action. Published Date: 2004/10/22 3:10:00 St Ives 16th October When H.G. Wells penned "The Time Machine", one assumes, he envisaged mad scientists working frantically to create a mechanism capable of traversing the very portals of time. A lot of work, and in reality on something that could never exist! Or could it? If he'd have looked closely at the psyche of the human being, he would have discovered that all the tools he needed were in place, within. Walking into St Ives tonight was akin to stepping back to an era long forgotten. Of course the mullets and afros (disregarding my own, which is rapidly approaching Phil Lynott proportions) 😃 weren't very much in evidence. Nor thankfully were the white socks or tank tops, but sports bags and talc abounded, and of course the odd pair of Spencers with obligatory beer towel surfaced without apology. The venue actually has a no talc policy, but apparently half the 700/800 had watched the film "The Wooden Horse", and consequently those with 'roomier' Spencers were detailed to liberally disperse talc from secret compartments. I really wish the 'Northern Soul Bible', and its fourth commandment "Thou shalt fuck the floor by making it impossible to stand up on", had never been commissioned 😃 But back to yesteryear, the venue's hardly changed, magnificent dancefloor, although even this couldn't cater for the throng in attendance. Thoughtfully tables and chairs had been strategically placed around the dancefloor, for those of us of advancing years, who need to sit down between the stompers. 😃 If your persuasion was such, there were always the balconies, offering 'Fish bowl vision', but these were in the main, populated by the 'handbaggers'. It would be remiss of me not to point out the generous serving of KTF'rs in attendance......Karen Crane, Debs, Carms, Lisa, Nogsy, Spanner, Alan Gibbons and Nige Brown. Leaving aside the last three, a KTF beauty pageant.....and yes I know I've included Nogsy, but he did look kinda cute 😃Thankfully he appeared in fine fettle, apart from an insistence on playing R&B 😃Some of you probably know he's not been well, but I told him everyone on KTF wished him a speedy recovery. First DJ up was Tony Warot a selection of his play list appears below. 1) I lost a true love - Danny Wagner 2) What would I do - Tymes 3) What kind of lady - Dee Dee Sharp 4) Ever again - Bernie Williams 5) Wanting you - April Stevens 6) Ice man - Billy Watkins 7) I wish I was - Eddie Garrigan 😎 Cool Off - Detroit Executives 9) Cry your eyes out - Dottie Cambridge 10) That's not love - Holly St James Whilst Tony firmly stuck with oldies, a policy required and insisted upon by the audience, nothing seemed out of place. The floor was heaving right from the off, and when the final record was played just after one, dancefloor space was still at a premium. Derek Allen was next up delighting the crowd with..... 1) I want my baby back - Stevie Wonder 2) Suspicion - Funk Brothers 3) Crying Time - Brenda Holloway 4) Just because - Pat and the Blenders 5) Comin' home baby - Dee Dee Sharp 6) Love you babe - Paulette 7) My little girl - Bobby Garrett 😎 Try a little harder - Fi-Dels 9) Cause you're mine - Vibrations 10) In orbit - Joy Lovejoy Again, I would like to stress this was never billed as anything other than a revival night and the crowd were in raptures. Then on strolled the ex shades DJ Glenn Bellamy and his first track? 1) Double Cookin - Checkerboard Squares 2) I'm not strong enough - Four Perfections 3) You hit me - Alice Clark 4) Satisfied - Ben Aiken 5) Can't help lovin' you - Paul Anka 6) Come go with me (instr) - Ed Cobb Orchestra 7) Better use your head - Little Anthony & the Imperials 😎 Breakout - Mitch Ryder 9) Do what you wanna do - Paul Sinbad 10) Cry your eyes out - Dottie Cambridge 11) You didn't mean me no good - Jelly Beans 12) Something's burning - Marvellows 13) Help me - Al Wilson 14) Can't you see you're losing me - Mary Wells 15) Aint no soul left in these old shoes - Ronnie Milsap 16) Please let me in - JJ Barnes. It wasn't that Glenn played more records than the other DJs it's just that he's more efficient, and actually enjoyed scribbling out his play list. The last DJ to furnish me with a play list was the immortal Brian Rae. 1) Champion - Willie Mitchell 2) Sad girl - Carol Anderson 3) I can't do it - Eddie and Ernie 4) No one else can take your place - Inspirations 5) Didn't' say a word - Yvonne Baker 6) You got me where you want me - Larry Santos 7) I've got the need - Moments 😎 Lend a hand - Bobby Hutton 9) Wade in the water - Ramsey Lewis 10) Help me - Al Wilson Even though some records were duplicated, a situation usually frowned upon, there was no frowning tonight! Just hundreds of happy faces, each with their own personal time machine, which had transported them back, some 25 years. The only thing that didn't regress was the price of the records in the record bar, they were firmly rooted in 2004.......but hey, you can't have everything. I make no apologies for my reflections on a great night being somewhat wordy, I haven't done a review in ages and......it just seemed right. No apologies from the organisers for the music policy either, oldies was the fare for the night, and it was consumed with passion by the ravenous horde, and if seconds had been available, then everyone's name would have been "Oliver". As a codicil to this review, I think when Dave Godin coined the phrase "Northern Soul" most of the tracks played tonight would have measured up nicely to his interpretation of our wonderful scene!! KTF Winston 😃

A xmas carol - Winstons holiday adventures - more great stuff from your man A Xmas Carol Review - Winston Well what a weekend, it started just how I wanted, it to with Janine picking up myself and Steve Heinsen from Bedford. Made really good time getting to Willington near Derby, (a mini-nighter, 9 til 4 a.m.) with Janine expertly and safely driving her way through the snow and other associated bad conditions. We arrived around a quarter to ten, and were pleasantly surprised just how many people were there, given the conditions, and the fact that there were at least 3 more soul nights on within a 40/50 mile location. Some early dancers were going through their paces, so all in all the promise of a good night was in store. As the night progressed the crowd built up to probably between 250 to 300 and included fellow KTF members, Andy Humberston and Dale Rose (Dancer) and Mandy P. The atmosphere on the night was excellent, and everyone seemed to be in particularly good humour, even Dale when he was hit in the head by a snowball aimed with great precision, by the modess Janine 🙂 The lovely Sandy didnt bring any food with her, so I did get a little peckish later on in the night, but I was determined not to let my hunger pangs get the better of me and battled on against the starvation as most guys would do.:-) The dance-floor after 11 was mostly packed right through til about 3 and then people started to disappear, the usual selection of sounds were on offer, with Kenny Burrell supplying the rarer stuff. Whatever was played on the night was right to be honest, it was a party atmosphere and thoroughly enjoyable for everyone. Onto Saturday night: I decided to try Mansfield as a warm up before Trentham, difficult to describe really, as again a party atmosphere prevailed, there was even a fancy dress competition. But for me it never quite got off the ground, the dance-floor was atrocious, Ive never seen wood that had been furrowed before, .....well until tonight. 🙂 It really was almost impossible to dance on, everybody was making the effort, but thats exactly what it was an effort. I did see Carl from Nottingham do an incredible sequence of drops during Edwin Starrs - "Time" but to anybody who has witnessed Carl dancing in the past, this will come as no surprise. Kenny Burrell was again guesting and as ever enjoying himself behind the decks. We left at just before midnight to make our way to Trentham, again the weather was very bad, but after about an hour or so, we arrived at our destination. Great sets from the "Rimmerman" and "Butch" and also Guy Hennigan. Although the numbers did not match Willington the night before, there was still a fair few there, and the dance-floor was normally full. The floor was a little fast for most, but you cant have everything. 7 a.m. quickly arrived, and bought to an end, what in my opinion was a marvellous all-nighter and one which I look forward to going to again in the near future. As ever, these days there were some other KTFrs there, Michelle and Caz if Im going to name-drop.:-) New years eve, arrived and I hadnt really made a decision where to go, the soul nights on offer, although tempting, involved a lot of travelling and all had early finishes. Through Janines contacts on the mod scene, it turned out that there was a mod all-nighter on in Clacton so the die was cast, and off I went with Janine. Ive got to say from the off, Im well impressed with the time and effort taken by the "Mods" to ready themselves. A great deal of attention to detail is obviously paid, from the Steve Marriot hair cuts, to the smart suits and dresses. It is very much an image thing, and the dedication to it can only be admired, almost a religious fixation with everything 6Ts. I was introduced to no end of "Mods" young and old, male and female and I thought one of the guys Caspar I think his name was, really looked cool. There is a lot of young blood on this scene, eighteen year olds etc, and if as I suspect some drift to the northern scene, it bodes well for the future. Musically I would say that half the music played tonight had northern roots, with particular emphasis on R&B. A lot of R&B sounds currently on offer on the traditional northern scene, were played here tonight, and all graciously accepted and danced to. I would have liked to have heard more Motown or Atlantic stuff, as Im sure these would have been played in yesteryear, but at the end of the day, it was new years eve.:-) Although I stood out like a sore thumb, my tie lasted from the car until I got in the venue 🙂 a lot of the "Mods" took the time to talk to me, (hello to Helen and Paul) and it was interesting discussing the 6Ts with lads of no more than 21. I must say as well they were pretty knowledgeable, and had researched the subject quite thoroughly. The style of dancing is definitely different in the main, but northern steps are creeping in, wont be long before theyre in spencers and vests.:-) I must confess that as 6 a.m. came and went I fell asleep, the night was supposed to finish at 5 a.m. but carried on until about half past seven, at which time Janine woke me up and told me it was time to go. I didnt fall asleep through boredom, I must emphasise, but through being dog tired, the weekend had finally caught up with me.:-) An excellent end to the year if somewhat different, and I look forward to seeing some of the younger "Mods" at various northern events throughout the year. Finally a happy new year to all the people I have met on and off KTF throughout the year, and I look forward to meeting all of you again, and some new faces, over the coming year. Soulfully Yours. Winston 🙂 KTF.

THE AQUA: HEDNESFORD 1/02/2002 Thanks to Winston for passing on a review and playlists of the Aqua Not having been to this venue before, but having heard so much about it from friends I felt really excited on the journey down. A couple of mates from St Ives rung up (Baz and Stuart) and said that they had spare seats and would I and Juliette like to go with them. We jumped at the chance and a couple of hours later we were on our way. It took about two hours to get to the venue from Cambridge, which wasnt bad considering the high winds and after setting off at around seven we duly arrived around nine. (Basic maths):-) A large car park just opposite the venue housed most of the punters cars and it was pleasing to see that it was quite full when we parked up. Its a really smart venue, into the foyer and paid the very reasonable amount of three pounds fifty each to get in. Through the doors and wow, what a pleasant surprise. A massive dance floor which felt really good underfoot, and I just knew that it would be a pleasure to dance on. To the right was the bar, which was well staffed so the thirstier section of the soulies was also well catered for. One of the other things that impressed me was the amount of seating, which was great for the less energetic and more elderly element, 🙂 amongst what seemed like almost one hundred percent TRUE soulies. I went straight to the bar, and almost immediately turned back to the floor because one of the DJs played J.D.Bryant and you just have to dance to that tune dont you? After re-visiting the bar, we settled down, met a few fellow KTFrs, Steve and Janet, Nige, Gayle and her Husband, and all sat/mingled together. Nick Brown (Driveller) also turned up, (is there a more hard working promoter on the scene?) and gave out flyers for the re-birth of Scenesville in Euston. There may have been some others of the KTF crew there and as ever if I missed you out I apologise. I was pulled to the floor almost immediately by the Tangeers and after that rarely left it. The music policy was excellent, with something for everyone, a little bit of modern, some storming rarities, R&B and a great oldies set from Sam Moore. The sound system was also excellent, no distortion, which was a pleasure after having my ears, battered at the rocket the week previous. The atmosphere built over the night and by ten thirty it was banging, and the floor told the story that everyone was enjoying themselves. I didnt know that many people there (outside of the KTF crew) but they all seemed pretty friendly and ready to chat, which is something that always makes you feel more at home. The only minor gripes (and they are only minor) were: The bar closing without any warning, although something was said by the DJs, but it was too late the bar had already closed. The insistence of people using talc on what was one of the best floors Ive danced on in ages. Below are selections from some of the DJs Playlists: Nige Shaw.... 9.30 THRU 10.00 TANGEERS...WHATS THE USE OF ME TRYING....OKEH TY KARIM....YOU REALLY MADE IT GOOD TO ME....VIRTUE ACETATE ROOSEVELT...GRIER...IN MY TENEMANT...RIK LOVETTES....I NEED A GUY DOTTIE & MILLIE...TALKIN BOUT MY BABY......TOPPER ESKEW REEDER...UNDIVIDED LOVE JONNY BARTEL...IF THIS ISNT LOVE...SOLID STATE DEMO JOANNE GARRETT...WHOLE NEW PLAN...CHESS TERRY CALLIER...ORDINARY JOE...CADET HARRY DEEL & GALAXIES...I STILL LOVE YOU RHETTA HUGHES...I CRY MYSELF TO SLEEP....TETROGARMO WOTSIT...LP DEON JACKSON....OOH BABY...ATLANTIC NIGE BROWN 10.00 THRU 11.00 ETTA JAMES...MELLOW FELLOW...ARGO LITTLE JOHNNY TAYLOR...SOMEWHERE DOWN THE LINE...GALAXY BARBARA DANE...IM ON MY WAY...3 TREY UNIQUES...NOT TOO LONG AGO...PAULA TANGEERS...LET MY HEART AND SOUL BE FREE....OKEH NOLAN PORTER...IF I COULD ONLY BE SURE....ABC DEMO KELLY BROTHERS....CRYING DAYS ARE OVER...SIMMS..........(yes they certainly are) HERB WARD..... STRANGE CHANGE....ARGO IKE & TINA TURNER...SOMEBODY SOMEWHERE....LOMA LORRAINE CHANDLER...I CANT CHANGE....RCA DEMO BUD HARPER....WHEREVER YOU WERE..PEACOCK DEMO DANNY WOODS ...YOU HAD ME FOOLED...CORRECTONE HOLLY ST JAMES..THATS NOT LOVE...ABC DEMO LARRY TRIDER.....CARBON COPY....AQUA SPECIAL PRODUCTS NATURAL FOUR...I THOUGHT YOU WERE MINE...ABC DEMO VALENTINOS...SWEETER THAN THE DAY BEFORE...CHESS MOMENTS...YOU SAID...DEEP HANK JACOBS....ELIJAH ROCKIN WITH SOUL..... CALL ME MITCH RYDER...BREAKOUT...UK STATESIDE MARTHA REEVES...SHOW ME THE WAY...UK TAMLA MOTOWN ANN ROBINSON ???...WORLD OF HAPPINESS...GOLDMINE/HARTHON LTD ED JACKIE WILSON ....BECAUSE OF YOU....BRUNSWICK DEMO ACE SPECTRUM...DONT SEND NOBODY ELSE...ATLANTIC Overall a brilliant night, and Im certain that I will go back there, its just a shame it finishes at one as personally I could have danced on and on 🙂 If you havent been already give it a go you wont be disappointed. Winston

Started the weekend in just the right way, a really good soul night at Willington. This is a really cool venue: a good sized dance floor thats in good repair, a pretty good sound system and a reasonably cheap bar. I think those assets just about cover the requirements of most soulies I know! WILLINGTON and LOUGHBOROUGH REVIEW Started the weekend in just the right way, a really good soul night at Willington. This is a really cool venue: a good sized dance floor thats in good repair, a pretty good sound system and a reasonably cheap bar. I think those assets just about cover the requirements of most soulies I know! The music policy is across the board, but the emphasis (for me) does lean slightly towards oldies. Not that Im complaining, I havent been out a lot recently, so it was nice to feel so comfortable with the music. I never made or asked for playlists, (havent been writing much of late) but once I got there I danced most of the night. Fellow KTFr, Nogsy was there, as was Andy Humberston, and if either of them read this they may be able to remember some of the plays (for those interested) ;-) All in all (cliché time) I was sick as a parrot that the night didnt go on a little longer, but thats can you ever get too much of a good thing? For anyone who hasnt made the trip to Willington, I would say give it a go, youll probably be pleasantly surprised. So its now Saturday, Id asked Steve Heinsen and his good wife Janet, if I could scrounge a lift with them to Loughborough and they agreed. By the time we arrived (just before 9:30) the car park already had quite a few cars in it (that could be a case of stating the bleeding obvious) so the night looked promising. And for me I think the promise was fulfilled. The venue was pretty full by 11 and everybody seemed to be enjoying themselves, there were quite a few in from the thriving Nottingham circuit, Carl and Andy Riley with his wife Debs to name but a few. There was also a fair sprinkling of the species KTF. As already mentioned, Steve and Janet, Alan Gibbons, Andy Humberston, Peter Burton, Nogsy, Mark Sanders, the Rimmerman, Spanner, Chris Anderton and as usual there will be others that Ive forgotten to name.:-) I spent the night flitting between the small room (which included sets from Andy H, Nogsy and Peter B) and the main hall. Best set for me in the main room, well the Rimmerman took the prize. He managed to keep Spanner dancing/walking/yomping all night. ;-) A few of us had a chat and we came up with the idea of getting Spanner one of those "For great Northern Soul dancing, put your feet here, here, and here mats. Amaze your friends, youll never take up quite so much room again" :-) I thought Dave played an excellent set, as ever, and the floor was heaving during his spot. Again no playlists, mainly because I was too busy dancing. Last spot of the night in the main room belonged to Derek Allen, the Mr Motivator of the Northern DJ circuit, he is just so enthusiastic you cant help but be carried along. My only grizzle is about the dance floor, which was a composite material that was IMO already quite fast, and after a few had liberally covered it in talc became even faster. Im not going to go into the should you shouldnt you talc the floor, as Ive made my feelings on this subject known before. That really was the only moan I had, it was for me an excellent night with great atmosphere, great music and great company. Once again I urge you to give it a go if you havent been, and to go back if you have. A big pat on the back to Mark Sanders for working so hard to make it a success, and a further pat on the back for his lovely wife Leanne, for dancing.:-) KTF Winston

THE MAGIC TOUCH a review by Winston A couple of weeks ago I was given a video called The Magic Touch. It is basically three hours of dance footage, shot at various venues across the country and its been painstakingly put together by a lad called Andy Holroyd, who lives in the Nottingham area. For the last year or so, Andy has been filming the dancers at every venue he has visited, he must have had hours and hours of tape, and hes edited what he considers the best of it together, to produce Touch. The video starts off with some stills from the 1999 dance competition held at Alfreton and then moves onto the real thing. Ive watched various videos over the years, from This England to Swons but for me none of them have ever quite captured what the scene is about, DANCING. Quite simply, I like to watch people dance and Ive always been of the opinion, that most punters are the same. My favourite sequences in This England were of the dancers, but the programme had other messages to put across, plus it was only half an hour long. Swons (the unabridged version) was well over twelve hours long, but contained very little footage of the dancers, although allegedly some ninety hours were shot. For me it was too preoccupied with the Blackpool Mecca and its influence on the soul scene, and whilst it cannot be denied that it had a major impact, I found the film to be a little too self indulgent, but thats another story. The Magic Touch never proclaims to be anything other than a tribute to the dancers, who are currently gracing the scene. Sometimes the filming is a little shaky (but overall pretty good) but Andy never claims to be anything other than an amateur. Being first and foremost a dancer himself, his appreciation of other dancers shines through. Andy and his trusty camera visited venues up and down the country, amongst them were: Keele, Skegness weekender, Blackpool weekender, Brighouse Ritz and Alfreton and he got good footage from all of them. Many of the well-known dancers, currently on the scene are included, Andy Riley, Carl, with his brilliant acrobatic displays, (a winner of many dance competitions) Sandie Gilvear (runner up at this years Cleethorpes) all from the Nottingham area. Tall Paul from Manchester, (who could spin for a living) Caz from Bolton (who won the Togetherness weekender dance comp) Panch and Karen, just to name but a few. In truth I dont think that Andy ever set out to make a tribute video to the best dancers on the scene, it just so happens that some of them were at the venues where he was filming. Overall the film is just paying homage, to those that I consider the mainstay of the Northern Scene, dancers in general. Without these willing souls, where would the scene be? Watching people sweating buckets, whilst retaining a smile on their face, or seeing them singing along with their favourite record, with all the passion of the original artist, is and always will be inspirational to me. Personally Ive never experienced the out and out joy thats created by the Northern scene anywhere else, and here it is on video, for me to relive in my dotage. 🙂 And just how I want to remember it, distinctive, energetic, passionate, and intense, enjoyed by a crowd of friendly people, a cut above the norm. This isnt meant to sound pompous, those are into rock and roll may share the same feelings towards their music, as in the future, so might those that are currently into house and garage. But I havent been into either, so I can only comment on my perception of the Northern Scene. The last couple of hours of the video were shot at Winsford in February, at the venues 6th anniversary. It seems to me to be quite apt, Winsford was on the downward spiral, attendance wise, (musically it was superb) and had just been taken over by Sam Moore. Sam had set about promoting Winsford very heavily, sometimes flyering three different venues in a single night. Subsequently the turn out at the anniversary was excellent and Andy was there to catch it. The footage produced, in my opinion, captures the atmosphere, and the fervour of the Northern Soul scene, in its entirety. I was there on the night and vividly remember most of it, but watching Andys video pricks the memory and helps me to remember that it wasnt a dream, it really was that good of a night. So for those who prefer shorter reviews, 🙂 three hours of some of the dancers currently adorning the scene, with Northern Soul music pounding over the top, in buying it you will have instant visual access to your past. You know you really “Cant get over these memories”, and all this for a measly fiver, cant be bad. 🐵 KTF. Winston Video online...

First time I've visited this night, so there was that extra degree of anticipation, on my journey. I arranged to meet a friend (Toby Cole) at London Bridge station, this has to do with both my intense dislike of walking and the fact its nice to go somewhere new with someone you know. Due to some technical failure the train wasn't able to stop at the London Bridge, so I had to get off at the previous stop, Blackfriars. I rang Toby and top bloke that he is, he came and got me. Not the ideal start to a night, to put you in a good mood, but as we arrived at the venue I was back in good spirits. At the entrance we were met by Jo Wallace and Paul Thomas Peter, two of the co promoters and DJs, the third promoter Martin Thomson, was doing his first stint behind the decks. After a quick chat Toby and myself made our way downstairs where the festivities actually take place. The first thing that hit both of us was the immense heat, it's a compact venue, and considering the early time that we arrived (it was still only 8:30) was already filling up. This was particularly impressive for me, because I haven't been to a mid week venue (Thursday night) anywhere for years and wasn't sure what the attendance would be like. All I can say is I'm glad I started dancing early, because the small dance floor rapidly became packed. The dance floor by the way had thoughtfully already had talc placed on it, probably because us denizens of the older soul fraternity are getting increasingly forgetful. Now where was I. Something that has become increasingly obvious to me (and probably hasn't been overlooked by others) on my visits to soul events in London are the crowds that are attracted. Firstly, in general they are a much younger crowd and contrary to popular belief, very friendly. Secondly the dancers are "up for it" right from the first record, and usually once on the floor, don't leave it. Thirdly and most importantly in my opinion, they treat "classics" and unknown sounds with equal deference, there are no petty politics. For me, the scene has always been about dancing and hearing quality music, including new sounds, or rediscovered oldies, because without this content, the scene can't survive. I believe this ethic is more than provided for by the current London soul scene and These Old Shoes is no exception to the rule. T.O.S has a tremendous atmosphere, there are people who prefer R&B, some who prefer the classic 6Ts type sound, all are catered for, consequently the dancing never stops. I firmly believe that an "up for it crowd" will in turn create "up for it DJs" who will respond accordingly. I think the DJs recognised the potential of the evening very early tonight, as a result when I eventually left, I was one very satisfied customer. Some of the sounds played tonight: MARTIN THOMSON CHRISTINE KITTRELL- Call his name (KING) YVONNE GOMEZ- My man a go go (HAWAII) DOUG BANKS- I just kept on dancing (ARGO) THE LITTLE FOXES- So glad your love don't change (OKEH) NOLAN PORTER- If I could only be sure (ABC) THE CHARADES- You better believe it (HARLEM HIT PARADE) MARVIN GAYE- Change what you can (TAMLA) MIKE VICKERS- On the brink (UK COLUMBIA) BOBBY LEE TIMBERLAKE- You hurt me (MIRWOOD) FOUR TOPS- Wonderful baby (MOTOWN) ENCHANTMENTS- I'm in love with your daughter pt.1 (FARO) SHUFFLERS- Always be mine (CRACKERJACK) SHIRELLES - Too much of a good thing (SCEPTER) JACK MONTGOMERY - Dearly beloved (SCEPTER) CHARADES - The key to my happiness (MGM) MOUSIE AND THE TRAPS - How about you (TODDLIN' TOWN) TYN TYMES - Baby I love you (THE MUSIC BOX) BETTY EVERETT - Please love me (ONEDERFUL) MARVELOWS - Your little sister (ABC) CLIFF NOBLES - My love is getting stronger (ATLANTIC) JIMMY HUGHES - It ain't what you got (ATLANTIC) CHARLES SHEFFIELD - It's your voodoo working (EXCELLO) GINO - It's only a paper moon (GOLDEN CREST) BRILLIANT KORNERS - Three lonely guys (MODERN) HESITATIONS - I'm not built that way (KAPP) MIKE VICKERS - On the brink (UK COLUMBIA) LONNIE LESTER - You can't go (NUTONE) OTIS LEAVIL - Nobody (SMASH) PAUL THOMAS-PETER CONTOURS - Just A Little Misunderstanding - UK TAMLA EDWIN STARR - I Want My Baby Back - GORDY BRENDA HOLLOWAY - Reconsider - TEST VOLUMES - My Kind Of Girl - INFERNO DEMO JOCK MITCHELL - Not A Chance In A Million - IMPACT DEMO EMANUEL LASKY - Don't Lead Me On Baby - THELMA THE PROFILES - Take A Giant Step - GOLDIE ANITA HULMES AND THE ESSEX - What Did I Do - ROULETTE BETTY SWANN - Lonely Love - MONEY RINGLEADERS - Baby What Has Happened - M-PAC DARROW FLETCHER - What Have You Got Now - JACKLYN LORRAINE CHANDLER - Tell Me Your Mine - GIANT TEDDY RANDAZZO - You Don't Need A Heart - DCP ROY HAMILTON - The Panic is On - MGM PORGY AND THE MONARCHS - That's My Girl - SYLVES DEMO MAXINE BROWN - Let Me Give You My Loving - WAND JJ BARNES - Please Let Me In - RIC TIC HOWARD GUYTON - I watched You Slowly Slip Away - VERVE DEMO KIM WESTON - A Thrill A Moment - GORDY BABY WASHINGTON - It'll Never Be Over For Me - SUE MARVIN GAYE - Little Darling - TAMLA HAROLD MELVIN - Get Out - ROUTE! BENJI FRANKIE AND THE DAMIONS - Man from Soul - JCP DELLS - Thinking about you - CADET MELVIN ELLING - Lonely eyes - STRETCH DYNAMICS - I need your love - RCA FOUR PERFECTIONS - I'm not strong enough - PARTYTIME YOUTH OPPORTUNITY PROGRAM - Of hopes, dreams and tombstones - COLUMBIA JOE DOUGLAS - Crazy things - PLAYHOUSE DANNY MOORE - Something new - ALLRITE TONY HESTOR - Just can't leave you - KARATE ARABIANS - Please take a chance - LE MANN CHUBBY AND THE TURNPIKES - I didn't try - CAPITOL RANDY HOBBS - Waiting and Watching - EMBER DANNY WHITE - Keep my woman home - ATLAS LARRY ALLEN - Can't we talk it over - GREEN DOLPHIN VALENTINOS - Sweeter than the day before - CHESS BOBBY HUTTON - Come see what's left of me - PHILIPS TOBI LARK - Challenge my love - TOPPER JOHNNIE MAE MATTHEWS - Lovely you'll be - ATCO FREDDIE HOUSTON - If I had known - OLD TOWN TOYS - Deserted - FRENCH COLUMBIA LILIAN DUPREE - Hide and seek - D-TOWN CONSTELLATIONS - I didn't know how to - GEMINI STAR BOBBY SHEEN - Something new to do - WARNER BROS EARTHA KITT - There comes a time - MUSICOR MITTY COLLIER - Pain - CHESS DON RAY SAMPSON - Baby come back - E JIMMY RICKS - Oh what a feeling - FESTIVAL GEORGE FREEMAN - Down and out - VALIANT JO WALLACE. FALCONS - I'm a fool - BIG WHEEL EMMANUEL LASKY - Sweet lies - THELMA JUNIOR VAL & NICK - I found you - GLOVER BETTYE SWANN - Heartache is gone - ABET CURTIS GRIFFIN - I gotta lump - JEWEL GEORGE WYDELL - From out of nowhere - TANGERINE DOTTIE AND MILLIE - Nothing in this world - TOPPER BARBARA MERCER - Call on me - SIDRA YVONNE BAKER - Mend the torn pieces - JOHNNY MOORE - Lonely heart in the city - BLUE ROCK BOBBY ADAMS - You got next to me baby - PILMA DOTTIE AND MILLIE - Talking 'bout my baby - TOPPER EMMANUEL LASKY - Peace Loving man - THELMA SPINNERS - She's gonna love me at sundown - VIP VOLUMES - I just can't help myself - AMERICAN ARTS JIMMY PREACHER ELLIE - I'm gonna do it by myself - JEWEL BUD HARPER - Wherever you were - PEACOCK WILLIE KENDRICK - Gimme lots of loving - RCA MAGNIFICENT MEN - Forever Together - CAPITOL VONETTES - Touch my heart - COBBLESTONE ROSE BATISTE - I miss my baby - REVILOT Finally, it's not usually my practice to single out particular DJs but I just can't finish off without mentioning Jo Wallace. She really has an awesome persona (as well as some great tunes) and just demands that you dance, so you do. Jo so enjoys herself behind the decks, that you can't help but admire her and subsequently be inspired by her. Cheers to all for a great night at TOS and I've just listed you in my diary under the "Events I must visit frequently" column. KTF Winston. Next date for TOS. THURSDAY September 14th 2000 Guest DJ is: Alan H (Capitol Soul) Venue: The River Bar, Tower Bridge Road, London Nearest Tubes: Tower Hill or London Bridge