Reviews from the Gassienda

From my point of view it was a top gig! A bit alarming to go into a club on the 23rd November and for it to be totally Christmassed up, but it did make me feel very festive. (thanks Uncle Johnny)

As usual I didn't get to see the lovely boys in the support bands, Minus Jack and Fifteen Stories, though I do believe Minus Jack nearly got to see me - two of them ran into the makeshift dressing room as I was swapping bras. I'm not sure who was more shocked, me or them. (Probably them as they are punky little teenagers - some still at school I believe!)

Anyway, to the set itself. 10 songs, that seemed over all too quickly. I was nervous before hand, as I always am, but even more so seeing as this was the first gig with new guitarist Owen. I needn't have worried. The band were as brilliant as ever, and once again I must thank them for all their hard work and commitment. The sound of the band is really shaping up now (as you can read in the reviews - links below)

Shame that there are tables and chairs around the stage - doesn't really promote people coming forward and dancing - though we did manage one person on the dancefloor in front of the stage!

During one technical hitch I had to resort to the gig waffle that all front people have to have in hand at some point. Talking in between songs has never been my strong point - but being in such a friendly crowd it seemed really easy. I decided to recruit members for the ShoeShoe Club early, rather than its usual slot of just before Soho Sophisticated. It's at this point when you lay yourself bare .. when NO-ONE comes forward. Thankfully there wasn't a tumbleweed rolling past, but it does put you on your back foot when you don't get a response! I got the impression from some girls at the front that they were WEARING their favourite shoes, but didn't have a picture of them to offer to the shoe shrine. (note to self - next time bring camera on stage!;-)

Still, that blip aside, it was a fantastic gig. There is something about a Northern audience where they seem pre-disposed to having a good time. They come ready to tap feet (even if they ARE sitting down!). It's a lot harder to warm up the nonchalant London crowd! No matter HOW good you are.

Either way, it's just a shame that that was the last gig this year for 50ft Woman. I hope to be recording in January and have the first London gig penned in for February. but I tell you, it won't be long before I'm back up North again!

Read the reviews for yourself ...

The Gassienda Website
The Keighley News