1st July 2004

The sixth Singers, Musicians & Poets night in the stewardship of jiva was another great evening. The second half was given over almost entirely to Backshift who provided a smashing extended set to finish off the night. This meant that we couldn't give everyone the chance to perform - and, as usual, jiva were busy twiddling all the knobs, pressing buttons, adjusting microphones, taking photos for the web, keeping track of performers and MC-ing, so also didn't get to sing. We're sure loyal club supporters will understand and be back next month to secure their slot!

Following club questionnaires, our web survey, comments from performers and audience, and national press coverage of the British Medical Association's Annual Conference, we announced a No Smoking policy for the club. This comes into effect from August.

There are also some unwritten rules that are universally accepted in folk clubs across the country. Please show respect for performers and audience alike:

• Keep the noise/chatter to a minimum while performers are on

• Do not get up and go to the bar during a song/tune/poem

• Do join in with the choruses if you feel like it!

• Do feel free to show your appreciation by clapping loudly, whistling, stamping your feet, etc.

For more suggestions, see Banjo Bill's Folk Club Etiquette page.

1 It's a while since we've seen Jack, but he's back, and as good as ever! No yodelling this time, but great entertainment with American Civil War songs.	2 Another welcome return - this time for Doug Wood who continued the American theme with 'Sally Don't You Grieve' and 'Battle Of New Orleans'.
3 Third visit for classical guitarist Alex. Excellent performances of 'La Paloma' and 'La Grima' - beautiful stuff, more please!	4  Ray Derrick began with his new song 'The Blue Skies Of Cramlington'. He was then joined by Eric Laverick for spirited renditions of 'Leaving Of Liverpool' and 'Guns And Drums'.
5 Next up was Eric Gildea  with his new guitar - our MC is running out of suitable comments for his songs. What more can you say about 'Cows With Guns' and 'Stinky Breath'?	6 Finishing the first half, we had Below The Salt. They gave us a fine set of 3 traditional songs with harmonies and multiple instruments.
7 After the break, on his first visit to the club for many years, Dave Minikin had the whole room singing along with the Allan Taylor classic, 'Roll On The Day'.	8 Ben... every month his performance leaves us wondering what else we can say. This time, in a change from his usual style, he gave us a great version of 'Too Far Gone' by Neil Young.
9 Another great sing song - Tony Hamblin (without banjo) provided a rousing performance of 'Roll Alabama'. Smashing!	10 Backshift, residents at the Davy Lamp Folk Club, finished the night in style with a 45 minute spot, plus encore. Their multi-instrumental and vocal harmony set included a fine variety of traditional and contemporary songs, tunes and medleys.
10 acts, 26 songs and tune sets. All for free! Be sure to come along and experience the fun at Ashington Folk Club...Singers, Musicians & Poets Nights on the first Thursday of every month.
Thanks to audience and performers for another smashing night.

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