2nd December 2004

Another packed night in the Folk Bar - we started behind schedule as many of our visitors turned up too late for a prompt 8:30 start. However, we managed to squeeze everyone in and finished at 11:15 (not a good idea if one wants to keep the goodwill of landlords and staff). It's been suggested that in order to encourage people to come early we should make it free entry for all until 8:30, then maybe charge after that (even for performers!)... worth pondering for the new year.

1 Peter Murphy got us off to a grand start with 'Jock o' Hazeldene' and the Eric Bogle classic, 'Green Fields of France'. We're lucky to have such an accomplished folkie drop in so often.

2 Regular visitors Lyn & Rob again showed great instrumental prowess with two tunesets - the first was un-pronounceable (something like 'Rhona Mulghona'?) along with 'Old Grey Cat'. They followed with a triple set of Northumbrian rants - 'Nancy' (Blyth), 'Dinnington' and 'Morpeth'.

3 Our favourite classical guitarist, Alex, started with the familiar 'Romanza' followed by his first public performance of the 2nd movement from Vivaldi's Guitar Concerto in D.

4 Jane's Alley have a unique sound encompassing an individual blues style with modern lyrics. They've played at Ashington before, but this was their first visit with jiva at the helm. Their first number was a 1928 blues number, and then they gave a self penned song 'Julie' about a lady in Jesmond with "an interesting lifestyle".

5 Another great performance from resident Pat Yeowart saw a solo unaccompanied version of Janis Ian's 'At Seventeen' and an off-the-cuff pairing with guitarist Steve for 'Summertime'. Wow!

6 Steve& Noeline then gave us a smashing rendition of Bonnie Raitt's 'Wounded Heart' (one of Noeline's favourites, and we can see why), finishing off the first half with Bob Dylan's 'I Shall Be Released'.

7 Starting the second half we had Dave Donohoe weaving delicate guitar work in Ralph McTell's 'Clare to Here'. In another on-the-spot liaison, he was joined by Jane's Alley for a one-off 'It's All Over Now Baby Blue' by Bob Dylan.

8 'Follow that', we thought...  and sure enough, Jimmy & Carol had us singing with two super songs - 'Shady Grove' and 'Pilgrim'. You can see more of Jimmy & Carol at Cramlington Folk Club, but we hope they'll be back at Ashington before long.

9 We all know the tale of the goose that laid the golden egg. Ann Lunam-Cowan gave the story a real twist with her 'Dog That Laid The Golden Egg' - very graphic, phew!	10 Jim Wigfield's songwriting encompasses thoughtful and esoteric subjects as well as humorous observations on everyday situations. Tonight was no exception - 'The Sun God' and a funny song about having a cold!
11 And then there was Ben Yeowart with the usual twinkle in his eyes as he introduced 'Indian Summer' for his "long suffering cherub". Back by popular demand, his next song was a theatrical rendition of 'Leopardskin Pillbox Hat'.	12 John Campbell was in Rolling Stones mode tonight, treating us to 'Wild Horses' an 'Angie'. We're pleased to have him as our first Spotlight act of 2005. So don't miss 17 February.
13 It was good to see George Rosenthal again - he has an engaging delivery style, and we thoroughly enjoyed Kieran Halpin's 'The Old Simplicities' and Alan Hull's 'Winter Song'.	14 It was after 11:00 when we finally got Ray Derrick & Eric Laverick up to finish the night off with two contrasting songs - 'John of Dreams' and 'The Gypsy Rover'. Be sure to come to our Spotlight night on December 16th when these two will have us singing out our 2004 season!
14 acts, 27 songs, poems and tune sets. What a smashing night - and, as usual, lots of long lost friends renewing acquaintances and musical memories. You're always sure of a warm welcome, some great music and a good old chinwag at Ashington Folk Club. Don't forget... 1. Singers, Musicians & Poets on the 1st Thursday of every month, and more of the same but with extended Spotlight sets on the 3rd Thursday. 2. We are closed during January, but normal service will be resumed from 03 February - be sure to come along and experience the Ashington Folk Club magick... and bring your friends. 3. Our second online survey is waiting for your input.
Thanks to audience and performers for another night of music and friendship. Come back again soon...

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