the newts.net

Open Mic Night.

And so last night we all piled down to the Tap & Spile to see Oli play acoustic solo. Shaun offered his services on the bass and vocal harmony so it became a duo. With a number of performers it was limited to just 2 songs each, so Oli & Shaun performed BE follwed by BEN. And fantastic it was. Jamie was there filming the night so we should have a dvd of the performances available for download soon. Watch this space!

Oli and Shaun.

Mine and Oli’s Uncle Steve has been itching to get back onto the live performance stage with his ‘finger picking good’ blues numbers, so after a little persuasion he agreed to play tonight as well. His first stage performance in quite a few years, although he has recently recorded a cd of his favourite work, and what an acomplished return it was. Apparently feeling a little nervous so he told us, it didn’t show with a fine performance of 2 of his reworked blues numbers. To be honest, I think Steve’s a bit too good for open mic nights, and we look forward to hearing him soon playing a dedicated blues night. There may be a gig coming up in Market Rasen soon. As soon as it’s finalised I’ll post the details on the newts.

Steve ‘old slow hand’ Newton.

I thought I recognised this next character! When he was announced it clicked. It’s me old Science teacher from Hereford School, Roge the dodge Beardie. One of the more amiable and witty teachers if I remember correctly. Of course I could be wrong! Students of Franklin College are welcome to leave their comments and correct me on this one! Mr. Beard as I know him played a couple of Irish numbers. I didn’t know he was a guitarist, and he warbled a mean tune too. Respect!

Roger Beard.

These guys were different. Broadsword - a Celtic Folk duo. The guy on the Mandolin, Phil, was a next door neighbour of Oli’s. He’s finger fast and apparently bangs a banjo too so I may have to tap him for a pointer or two!

Broadsword.

Back in Grimsby, it was nice to see our international ballerina cousin Alex who is home while Bov rips her london house out and her new dance season starts in August.

Alex Newton.

And finally, also home from his London pad, sporting his resistor colour code chart shirt, is cousin George. Joining us to cheer his Dad on. Pictured here recovering from the shock of getting change from a twenny after buying a round of drinks - he’s used to 50 squid rounds in London you see!

George Newton.