It's only a gig

Sometimes things don't go to plan. I may be a bit of a control freak but I have learned that going with the flow is often all you can do when events conspire. We've been really lucky with our RaRaRa nights over the last year, and last night wasn't a disaster by any stretch of the imagination, but it was a whole lot more stress and hassle in the run-up than we've had in recent times for any homegrown or RaRaRa gig.

The day started as it meant to continue when Danny unfortunately had to cancel his set due to family circumstances. Of course there's no question of chelping on our part, these things happen and most importantly I hope things get sorted out OK for him. We mooted some last minute alternatives and luckily Neil from The Cedar kindly agreed to come along and play a solo set. After lunch I was just gearing up to head to the airport and pick up Wake the President who were flying down from Glasgow to play when Bjorn from the band called to say the flight was delayed. It turned out the poor guys had a seven hour wait at the airport for the delayed flight. They made it just in time - their taxi arrived as Neil started his solo set. Now, I've seen the Cedar (and thoroughly enjoyed them) before but never seen Neil on his own. He's a compelling and talented performer - he held the audience intently with a combination of great songs, lovely banjo playing and a stunning voice. It was a rare treat.

We've been spoiled in our recent Bristol shows - the last few have been really busy and that has given the confidence to offer gig-swaps to bands further away in the knowledge that their trip will be fruitful and hopefully rewarding. Something went a little awry last night. Maybe we don't have the pull, maybe the Croft just isn't our venue (the Louisiana is our true home in Bristol) but when Wake the President took to the stage I felt I'd let them down a little as the place wasn't as full as I'd hoped. They themselves shook off their frustrating airport hassles and hangovers (what else is there to do for 7 hours in a domestic airport lounge with a bar?) with true aplomb. With nothing but a simple line check they proceeded to tear through their set with the same intensity and craft that made me love them at indietracks. They are a fine band and I'm really glad they could make it to Bristol to play. Also, the lovely crowd that were there were appreciative and happy
Wake the President

Our set was OK - glad we got to play new tune 'Spark it up' and I enjoyed myself - all in all it was fine. Looking forward to our Louisiana gig supporting Pony Up on 5th November.