UK Tour May 2010

[atkygal]

Blimey, not read the posts for a while - fantastic reviews everyone. Sounds like tour is going down a storm! Got back last pm (well early am) from another fabulous weekend duke break. Nottingham was simply amazing, as always when with the fizzy folk we got seats at the front (thank you guys) and the band were on fine form. Song of the Hours particulary got me, though it was already a firm favourite from Mother Courage.

The wine did slightly get the better of me (almost never happens) and if I mumbled incoherently to random people about how wonderful duke was I humbly appologise. Also very big sorry to Noel Fielding Lookalike whom I berated for being in the Young Conservative club!! Which is wierd as I am a advocate for free choice but hey.

Bristol was more subdued (for me anyway). It had a slow start due to some truly terrible lighting during the Hector Mann songs. however thanks to a mystery light man we could actually see the band for Mother Courage and the encore.

It was brilliant as always, how anyone can not find Ben castle a true comic genius is beyond me and as for the rest of the Band, hard to find words except I never grow tired. I really really love the drum action during mother courage and the way duke really lets go. Always slightly concerned he's going to whip himself in the face though!

Also the support on both nights was the rather lovely Hannah Peel who was Fab! Phew.
Feeling the effects today though and my poor son has been left to own devices rather today!!! Lovely to see all again including the ususal crown and Gillian (hurrah).
Bring on Oxford!!!!

[teddy10]

Thanks for all the reviews and pics so far, folks.

Can't wait for Thursday (Shaw theatre) ~ only one problem: bunny ears, 'tache or both ;-)

[Mrfizzy]

Blimey, not read the posts for a while - fantastic reviews everyone. Sounds like tour is going down a storm! Got back last pm (well early am) from another fabulous weekend duke break. Nottingham was simply amazing, as always when with the fizzy folk we got seats at the front (thank you guys)
It was brilliant as always, how anyone can not find Ben castle a true comic genius is beyond me and as for the rest of the Band, hard to find words except I never grow tired. I really really love the drum action during mother courage and the way duke really lets go. Always slightly concerned he's going to whip himself in the face though!

Also the support on both nights was the rather lovely Hannah Peel who was Fab! Phew.
Feeling the effects today though and my poor son has been left to own devices rather today!!! Lovely to see all again including the ususal crown and Gillian (hurrah).
Bring on Oxford!!!!

I agree that Hannah and "Tainted Love" especially was brilliant on her music box. I also agree 100% with the descriptions of Ben as a true comic genius, not to mention a massive musical talent - anyone who cannot smile at Ben performing alone or with the delightful comic chemistry between Ben and Duke together in Wanda and Tango Tangle is in serious need of a humour transplant.

Artists of their calibre and integrity perform work to the best of their considerable ability. We go to see them because they perform creative and remarkable work that we can only admire. There are just far too many no talent nobodies that think negative criticism makes them sound more "clever" than positive.

Finally, as I recall Atkygal, you are just as nutty as we are for getting to gigs ridiculously early and waited with us patiently to try and get a good seat - no thanks necessary! :o

[Sixmonthsin]

I'm amazed no-one has mentioned Thekla yet, it was incredible!! Unless I've missed a parallel thread :)
:o

[Umbrella Academic]

Thanks for all the reviews and pics so far, folks.

Can't wait for Thursday (Shaw theatre) ~ only one problem: bunny ears, 'tache or both ;-)

I have no idea why the bunny ears but I say BOTH!

[beth gaddis]

I'm with Umbrella Academic. Be a 'tache bunny :o

[jodieaitken]

Can't go wrong with bunny ears, and the 'tasche is a running theme. Bunny with 'tasche. By the way, why bunny ears? Still haven't figured it out...

[sarahg]

'Dublinram and friends - he tells me that this was his eleventy-first (111) Duke show - lucky chap'.

Wow eleventy-first show...that's very impressive :-)

[Gillian]

I'm only up to 7. I'm working hard on it though.

[jodieaitken]

It's my one week first-Duke-gig-iversary today. This time last week I would have been in the venue watching that incredible show.

[beth gaddis]

still waiting for my opportunity to get to my first. Someday.... :)

[Stephen]

Nice to see Duke using my green crushed velvet throw on the piano on this tour. :)

[berniecasserley]

Nice to see Duke using my green crushed velvet throw on the piano on this tour. :)

About time the red chenille one was retired , doubt it's had a wash in all these years ;)

[jan]

I for one found Ben utterly brilliant at the Newcastle gig. Perfectly timed comedy.

We must remember these reviewers are usually prompted with "Hello, this is our first song (Whatever).......... Thank you. Our next song is (something else).......... Thank you. Our next song is a single released on Monday, please buy it as we want to be famous....... Thank you" and aren't quite prepared to see something theatrical and thoughtful.

Re: PM, Ian.....I totally agree about Ben's performance.....he's part of the band and no one tries to upstage anyone else.....it's a given and they're a team in every sense of the word. If someone doesn't 'get it' then they're not watching properly! Body language, facial expressions....all in harmony at a DS gig!
Ultimate professionals!
Sad that anyone would reach a different conclusion and their loss is missing a vital part of the fun. Such a shame that they have to review the obvoius banality of the kind of gig you describe.....heaven save us from the cynics and bored reviewers!
xx

[jan]

Another Duke article in the Nottingham Post - pre-show:


http://files.me.com/ianreece/mcijxi

Different!
:):)

[jan]

Thanks for all the reviews and pics so far, folks.

Can't wait for Thursday (Shaw theatre) ~ only one problem: bunny ears, 'tache or both ;-)

You might have to explain the bunny ears Teddy10......if you can!
Wish I knew how to do multiple replies but the rest of you sound as starstruck as me.....green crushed-velvet, moustaches, bunny ears?
xx

[Lolli]

I've popped this on the other thread but thought it was worth putting it here too:

Owing to illness I now have a spare ticket (possibly 2) for Thursday night if anyone is interested. Face value would be nice but I'm open to offers...

[Fizzy]

A few pics from Saturday in Nottingham
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs658.snc3/32529_1363010327178_1589213392_30875662_5868519_n. jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs618.snc3/32529_1363011287202_1589213392_30875671_8303894_n. jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs618.snc3/32529_1363011567209_1589213392_30875676_581327_n.j pg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs618.snc3/32529_1363012607235_1589213392_30875691_7434566_n. jpg

A fabulous evening with many moustache related laughs!

:o:o:o:o

[Fizzy]

Some fab photos from St Philips here
http://tinyurl.com/389rqjk

:o

[runnerbean]

Some fab photos from St Philips here
http://tinyurl.com/389rqjk

:o


Really great pictures :-) thank you.

[teddy10]

You might have to explain the bunny ears Teddy10......if you can!

Two words: Guildford Ghost!! Tho' why he's so into bunny ears is beyond me......... Where are you, Ghostly One? Tell all, and make some new converts ;-)

[old git]

Two words: Guildford Ghost!! Where are you, Ghostly One?

I think you'll find that he SHOULD ;) be in Iceland right now!!

[teddy10]

I think you'll find that he SHOULD ;) be in Iceland right now!!

Aaah! So that explains the latest dust clouds ;-)

[Fizzy]

Another fab show at the Thekla though trouble with lighting made photos difficult
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs082.snc3/15003_1363521819965_1589213392_30876376_502929_n.j pg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs082.snc3/15003_1363523740013_1589213392_30876397_2190915_n. jpg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs102.snc3/15003_1363525860066_1589213392_30876423_622601_n.j pg

More here http://tinyurl.com/3xkkdqu
:o:o:o

[Mrfizzy]

I don't know how it is with Duke and the boys but although it's great fun, we're getting quite worn out following them and working - just got home and heading off for Oxford ...:o

[bigspazz]

i am suposed to be in Oxford tonight but am at home in Surrey being repeatedly sick. Just hope my friends can pick the tickets from thee venue. i spoke to ticketweb and sent my friends the letter of authorisation etc they said would be required.

Fingers crossed for Thursday that i can make it.

Regards
Andrew

[jan]

I don't know how it is with Duke and the boys but although it's great fun, we're getting quite worn out following them and working - just got home and heading off for Oxford ...:o

No sympathy here....sorry!!
Get well soon Andrew.
xx

[jodieaitken]

Fizzies, that's the price you have to pay (Not including tickets, obviously!) for those performances. Just going to one tired me out, but that's not saying I wouldn't jump at the chance to go to another! I'm surprised you haven't caved in from the copious amounts of awesome you're getting to view.

Andrew, I really hope you get better quickly!

[bigspazz]

Thanks guys. Fingers crossed for thursday. Perhaps if i do get out of the house you lot had better not get to close.

Serriously though the main worry was if the venue / ticketweb mess my friends around over the tickets. Havent heard of any probs yet.

[mediumal]

A basic review -

I was at Thekla too, wonderful show. Hadnt heard many of the Mother Courage songs so it was like discovering Duke all over again.

Hannah Peel was attractive and charming, both musically and aesthetically. On a scale of 0 to 2....... (told you it would be basic)

You had a good seat Mr Fizzy!! You must also have a very understanding boss and bank manager, unless of course you are the boss in your own bank!! I was up in the balcony bit, to left as you look at stage.

Sorry to have missed Morwenna, I introduced myself to a blond girl at the bar, her boyfriend was equally confused. How did the run go?

[Gillian]

I went all the way to Nottingham which wiped out my weekend (nicely). I'd like to know, does Fizzy have time to do any housework? Does Mr. Fizzy get any clean socks? They must have no time to eat, never mind sleep and work!

[morwenna]

Sinmonthsin - sorry, I didn't realise you were going to the Thekla, otherwise I'd have looked out for you. Saying that, I was looking out for Mediumal too, but unfortunately our paths didn't cross - I hope the girl at the bar (and boyfriend) weren't too confused!

Mediumal, my run went great, thanks. If I had met you on Sunday night I would have told you I did it in under an hour, but due to a malfunctioning clock (or my inability to read), when my chip time came through on Monday it was actually 1:01:42, which I'm still pleased with. I'm doing a Race For Life 10k in 2 weeks time, so something to aim for.

I really enjoyed the gig, I know some people weren't happy with the lighting, but to be honest that didn't detract from the music for me. Hannah Peel was really good, and I loved her music box stuff, she's got a great voice, and it was great to finally see her after hearing her mentioned so much in connection with a certain Mr Ford.

[Fizzy]

does Fizzy have time to do any housework? Does Mr. Fizzy get any clean socks?

Housework? Forgotten what that is :) and if Mr Fizzy wants clean socks he can do his own ;)
I have much more important things to do!

:o:o:o:o

[Mrfizzy]

No sympathy here....sorry!!
Get well soon Andrew.
xx

Absolutely no sympathy required Jan - that should go to Andrew (get well for Thursday). Some things are worth getting a bit wrecked for. Tonight in Oxford was one of those great gig nights where all goes well with the tecchie stuff, sound and lights, the band give super performances and the audience respond with enthusiasm. Even better the evening was being recorded on video and I trust we'll hear more about this in due course.

The opening act, Hannah Peel was musically very innovative and she played a nice selection of her own songs and two '80's song covers "Tainted Love" by Gloria Jones and "Sugar Hiccup" by the Cocteau Twins on her music box in the "rebox" series. Well worth a look at her work at http://www.myspace.com/hanpeel and her forthcoming gig dates with Rachael Unthank.

Duke and the band were superb of course and we got to hear "Tellers Tale" live for the first time :o

[Rita]

I hope we get Tellers Tale on Thursday. That is my favourite on HM album.
Have been loving all the reviews so far. Thanks everyone.

[Fizzy]

Teller's Tale was indeed lovely :)
A very recognisable shadow :)
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-sjc1/hs102.snc3/15003_1364254558283_1589213392_30878238_676863_n.j pg
http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs082.snc3/15003_1364254438280_1589213392_30878236_2301872_n. jpg

:o:o:o:o

[pianofan]

Two truly awesome shows, Bristol and Oxford! Oxford sound had the slight edge and I would have to say that -from an audience perspective- we saw as darn near perfection as anyone could get at a live show!!
The power, energy and sheer emotion running throughout was draining and uplifting in turn - and to end with Diggin' An Early Grave was the perfect conclusion to an evening that no-one wanted to end! (Quick.... throw in an extra couple of local dates please!!)
Duke is not 'simply' a brilliant musician, singer, songwriter - he is an actor of great worth (or just WAS the characters) and we definitely lived the songs with him. He is also surrounded on stage by a great band who gave it their all for someone they love and obviously respect .. and who wouldn't when he provides Police Academy telethons in the tourbus :-)

I spoke to a couple of people afterwards who hadn't heard any of the 'Stage, Screen and Book' works and they were completely won over to something they weren't sure of initially - on a first hearing, that is pretty impressive!

A supreme quality show that I can't wait to see again on Thursday!! ...whilst checking flight information for Ireland ;-)

[Mrfizzy]

We agree with you completely pianofan and don't want it to end either :(
We are excited at the prospect of the UK finale show in London and Volcano God willing, plan to pick up the Ireland shows in Kilkenny :o:o

For those that have yet to hear "Tainted Love" performed on music box (LOL) - here is the very lovely and talented Miss Peel opening for Duke and the band at the Oxford O2 last night

G-6oybwzBOY

Do check her myspace site http://www.myspace.com/hanpeel

[Steetsie]

I spoke to a couple of people afterwards who hadn't heard any of the 'Stage, Screen and Book' works and they were completely won over to something they weren't sure of initially - on a first hearing, that is pretty impressive!


I went along with a "Duke virgin" last night, and he is also now a convert on first hearing!

From my perspective (unfortunately arriving late, during "Wanda..."), it was the first time the Mother Courage and Hector Mann songs have really struck an emotional chord with me. I went to the Hoxton Hall show, but didn't post on here afterwards cos something wasn't quite there for me, and I didn't want to bring the collective mood down! However, last night, that all changed. I went home on a massive high and couldn't get to sleep til about 4.30am as I couldn't stop thinking about this show. Now wish I was going to London tomorrow.

[Mrfizzy]

I think that we all find some songs are "growers" Steetsie - the songs have also grown increasingly powerful with live performance.

I've already PM'ed Lolli, but does anyone have a ticket for the Shaw theatre tomorrow?
We have a friend desperate to see it and it is completely sold out :(

[KingDaveRa]

The opening act, Hannah Peel was musically very innovative and she played a nice selection of her own songs and two '80's song covers "Tainted Love" by Gloria Jones and "Sugar Hiccup" by the Cocteau Twins on her music box in the "rebox" series. Well worth a look at her work at http://www.myspace.com/hanpeel and her forthcoming gig dates with Rachael Unthank.


Well there's a very promising combo! I rather liked Hannah. The Almond Tree being a favourite. I bought the EP and am rather impressed. I look forward to hearing what happens with Rachel too!

I hadn't realised the theme of the show until we got there (I didn't buy the tickets). We were pleasantly pleased to find it was seated too.

Personally, I prefer Duke Special with a backing band - I prefer the fuller sound. Don't get me wrong, the last couple of gigs were good, and he can carry the set with just himself and Chip for example. But with a full band behind him, it's so much better.

Another thoroughly enjoyable show though.

[poppiesfan]

Was fabulous last night - I just love Yvette's song - I was thinking today it is now probably in my top 10 of all time favourites (tomorrow it will be Careless Heart or anything else Duke has done!)

I will say - and this is just me personally - that I am looking forward to seeing the show in a proper theatre. I just couldn't get the 02 for that type of gig. I think it's because I've recently been there when it was heaving with a mosh pit to boot and that's what I associate with that type of venue.

After the first song I just couldn't sit down last night - it's not in my nature and it was easier to prop/hold my hand up on a shelf - as well as coming in handy for bopping around to Diggin'!

Met a lady called Helen last night and she had only really heard of Duke before - didn't really know anything about him. She left with a copy of SFTDF in her possession and I think we'll be seeing her at a Duke gig again sometime :)

Also good to meet Mr and Mrs Fizzy - no doubt will catch up again at a gig very soon! I'd say you'd recognise the train but I don't want to be arrested - lol!

[Elaine]

Hi All
Have not posted for a while but have read all about the fantastic gigs I have missed! Great photos too. Will be there on Thursday though, can't wait. Am feeling Duke starved at the mo. Have not got time to make a tache but will enjoy seeing all the other boardies with theirs. Look forward to seeing some familiar faces tom. :o;)

[Fizzy]

Look forward to seeing you Elaine, it promises to be great gig and is a complete sellout. We spoke to all of the band tonight and told them that fans would like to congratulate them all after the show and to please come out with Duke. Lets let them know they are all appreciated :o

[pianofan]

We spoke to all of the band tonight and told them that fans would like to congratulate them all after the show and to please come out with Duke. Lets let them know they are all appreciated :o

Absolutely! Shyness is no excuse for not getting their due praise :D:o

[The Rabbit Maker]

I went to see Duke Special at St Philips after only discovering him by accident on a TV show on holiday in Ireland last year. We arrived home and immediately bought any CD we could find. It has been love at first hearing for me, husband and two young sons. The gig at St Philips was such a fantastic experience and Duke is such a talent and really brings the songs to life.We will all be enjoying his music for many years !! Thanks xx

[Mrfizzy]

Absolutely! Shyness is no excuse for not getting their due praise :D:o

We have been watching with great interest how each of the band contribute so much to each of the songs.
Ben's clarinet and sax is gorgeous throughout and his lightest touches in "Double or Nothing" in Cardiff last night were especially moving.

Phil is such a maestro of percussion from his delicate brush and cymbal to the relentless drums of war in the Mother Courage section and he keeps momentum throughout.

Jonny gives super vocal support in several pieces and his subtle double bass in "Song of the Hours" and dramatic bowing in this and other MC songs is particularly impressive. He will be replaced for the Irish leg of the tour by Simon Little, who played in MC originally at the National Theatre to fit in with their various other gig commitments.

You have to be one heck of a piano player to be entrusted to replace Duke so that he can sing up front and Cian is. We also discovered that
Cian earned his band nickname of "Dish" after a Glasgow fan described him as "Dishy"! I can't judge, but from a male perspective I can say that all of them are very talented and likable.

Like pianofan, I would really like the band to get their due praise for their individual talents that they bring to the show.

I can hardly believe the clarity and power of Duke's voice recently but still expect a surprise or two and a hugely memorable finale show tonight.:o

[jeanette]

I can hardly believe the clarity and power of Duke's voice recently but still expect a surprise or two and a hugely memorable finale show tonight.:o

Well, Fizzies (and other boardies going along tonight), I've got my 'tache at the ready and I'm all set for what promises to be a fab evening. I'll look out for you, presumably somewhere in the bar! :o

[alice]

Last night of the UK tour - hard to believe! Have a wonderful time all going to Shaw Theatre this evening - it will be nothing less than astounding I would imagine. Fizzies - hope you'll rally your resources for the finale and medals deserved for your stamina. For any "Duke virgins" - Burnside's Deer at Big Basin says it all.

Roll on Ireland!!

[bigspazz]

First off. I made it to the gig and it is something i would never normally say but boy was i glad it was seated. Sorry to everyone if i seemed a little rude but i really had to go sit down and i really didnt want anyone else to get sick. Fab gig! Personaly i think the Mother Courage set / cd is by far the stronger of the two. Another fantastic Dukefied cover version in I'm still standing.

So glad i made it in the end. It was well worth the risk even though i was basicaly held together by a massive overdose of immoudium tablets.

Luv
Andrew

[poppiesfan]

Absolutely stunning last night - definitely a theatre type show.

Fabulous to meet so many "old" faces too. ("Old" as in seen before not age!) Spent half the night trying to work out which gig we last saw each other at - Duke Special? Paul Heaton? Mesh-29? The Mismatch? Anyone else?

I dashed for the earlier train straight after the gig so sorry if I didn't say bye to anyone. I was really tempted to stay behind but that would have meant getting home much later and I would have been clock watching which would have been just as bad.

Really loved the couple of gigs I've been to. My next foray into Duke's world is likely to be Beautiful Days, at the moment. Never say never though!

See you all soon - some of you at a non Duke gig this weekend I believe!

[elvisleslie61]

Good to see all the boardies last night and also heather who had flown over for the gig
I loved the mother courage songs live as they are so much more powerful live yet still retain their beauty and song of the hours was simply stunning
hector did not work so well for me, even though it's my favourite album of the 3.
I think it is because for me live they don't add anything new to a record I love.
huckleberry Finn was a rousing encore and the reworking of Elton johns I'm still standing was very enjoyable.

All in all a very good night was had

[Katiecom]

Ive never posted on the forum before but as last nights show was the 18th performance I have seen of Duke's I thought I could introduce myself. I have been a fan since 2006 and have watched his style develop and i continue to be enthralled - last night was fabulous. I never enjoy seated Duke gigs as much - the music makes me want to dance, but I can see why for the first (more sedate) half at least, the seats were good. The support act were great - but i dont think they introduced themselves so i have no idea who they were?? That singer had a fantastic sexy voice - clearly all that whisky is good for you....
Im sure its been explained somewhere else down the thread, but why are the original band members not playing on this tour? Chip? Paul? The Poisoner? I think I saw Paul at the interval, and I had the pleasure of bumping into Neil Hannon (*squeal*) as I queued for the loo - but I miss Chip! Oh and I miss Ben's hair, although he is still as deliciously cheeky as ever!
I had brought a Duke virgin with me, my Polish/German other half. He seemed to enjoy it, part. the Elton John cover!

[Mrfizzy]

We spoke to all of the band tonight and told them that fans would like to congratulate them all after the show and to please come out with Duke. Lets let them know they are all appreciated :o

I need to apologise for this bad post which I posted while Fizzy and I were sharing a PC on our travels and I made a hash of it. I did not, and would not presume to ask any of the band or Duke for that matter to come out after a gig. I did say that many fans would be pleased to congratulate them if they so chose. They are all of course entitled to their privacy and rest offstage and it is a great privilege if any of them do choose to give up their personal time. I have only seen respectful and polite behaviour by fans towards our admired ones but another fan correctly pointed out to me that this may not always the case. The moral for me - don't post in a hurry! :(

The show was fantastic at the Shaw Theatre last night and a worthy finale to the end of the UK leg of the tour. Although I agree with Elvieleslie that the Hector Mann album is a truly wonderful record, nothing beats the raw power and excitement of seeing Duke and the band live for us. As you would expect from an artist of his calibre there are often different band line ups and reworks of his music on tour that keeps the work fresh. :o

[jeanette]

Fabulous (first) time last night. The Mother Courage section blew me away and I'm kicking myself that, living as I do in London, I didn't go and see the show at the NT. Loved the encore too and thank God the first record Duke bought with his voucher was something decent! Couldn't imagine him doing Duran Duran, somehow...

Lovely to meet Delly, Elvisleslie, Sacha, the Fizzies and other boardies even if I had to be slightly sloshed to make the first move. And fantastic to meet Duke -thought he was extremely gracious given that I was babbling incoherently at him! Must be the stardust...
:redface:

Huge thanks to all concerned for putting on such a terrific show - and hope to see some of you again at a future date.

[helen]

I absolutely loved the show last night! I only have Edinburgh to compare it to on this tour which I thought was amazing but London did top that. Maybe because the theatre was sold out and the audience reaction was very boisterous, so the atmosphere was excellent. I think also the performance had a few extra theatrical flourishes and seemed more confident. I liked Duke and Ben's kick-flick things during Tango Tangle - I think they were definitely trying to trip each other up!

I think the Hector Mann stuff gets better each time I see it. Country Weekend, Prop Man, Mister Nobody - it was all bloomin' brilliant. And my friend loved it - she's seen Duke before in Mother Courage and supporting Ray Davies a couple of years ago, but not the full on show.

And Elton John's 'I'm still standing' actually sounded like a really good song - I don't think I've ever heard the words properly before. I can't bear it normally.:(

I'm very jealous of anybody going to any of the "mainland" dates. I'd love to do it all again. :)

[Elaine]

What a fantastic night! The Mother Courage set was excellent and I really love the Hector Mann songs. Loved the cover of Im still standing. I too brought a Duke virgin along last night. My Stepson Lee. He was as much in thrall as I was. Another Duke fan! As much as I enjoyed last night, I'm in agreement with Katiecom in that I miss Chip and his unique sense of fun. Ben, however more than made up for it. Him and Duke had such fun on stage. The whole gig was theatrical and magical and I did not want it to end. Sorry did not stay cause had to rush and get the train. Great to see the Fizzies, sorry did not say goodbye. Would have loved to see more of the UK tour but time and money or lack of! rule. Good to see Rita and finally say Hi. I recognised other boardies but wasn't sure of names. Hurry up Duke and come back soon. :o

[Simone]

Well, last nice was completely ACE. Loved hearing the Mother Courage songs again.

The support band were incredible but, as mentioned above, they didn't introduce themselves. Does anyone know who they are?

[joneshs]

Hi there - last night was my first live Duke show and I loved it - of course!

In repsonse to questions in thread above about support act, I happened to spot a poster in the foyer which named them - it was Patti Plinko and her boy. She has a good website and you can listen to studio versions of the songs she played live last night (although live versions were better I think).

For me, the highlights of Duke's wonderful set were Jumping Jacks, Scandal, Yvette's Song, Song of the Hours, the cover of I'm still standing and Digging an Early Grave.

[Rita]

What a brilliant evening last night!

Unfortunately I arrived there later than anticipated as for some reason they decided my train should sit outside Waterloo station for 20 minutes. By the time I arrived, the support act were on and I had to find my seat in the dark. Tried to squeeze past people in my row to get to my seat and they just looked at me as if I was completely stupid it was then that I realised the side blocks only had 6 seats in them so I just had to walk round to the aisle on the other side and my seat was on the end. I did feel really stupid but it was dark! Then Dawn waved at me just across the way from me, felt happier seeing a familiar face. In fact it was lovely to see so many boardies scattered across the theatre, felt like I was in a room full of friends. With a couple of intervals I was able to catch up with them all. Lovely to meet some new boardies, Elaine and Jeanette.

I enjoyed the support act, very lively and quite different to anyone I had seen before.

Onto the main event. I thought the acoustics in the theatre were fantastic and the songs really came alive again. For me also the Hector Mann songs get better and better. All were fantastic but particular highlights for me of the night were Song of the Hours – absolutely stunning , Catfish and the cover of I’m Still Standing – as I think has been said already I really took more notice of the words and just liked the way it was covered. Seeing the Mother Courage songs once again performed in a theatre took me back to those fantastic performances at the National.

DS very kindly came out afterwards to the foyer. Had a quick word with him and said how much I had enjoyed the show and really liked the cover and then I rambled stupidly how I hadn’t heard it on the radio, stupid because I had been at the gig when they performed it live on the radio earlier in the evening!!

Pleased that I managed to say a very quick hello and goodbye to Heather before I rushed off to get my train home. Amazed that she knew my name!

[atkygal]

Very sad didn't make it to cardiff or London. Sounds like they were wonderful as always. Listened to Jo Whiley interview Duke and the band last pm and she made a comment about how people who she's spoken to have gone to see him once and then been hooked. Think we all know how that feels.

Am now looking forward to a small jaunt round irleand to see a few more shows, can't wait.

[Rita]

You were missed in London, Sally :)

[jodieaitken]

Glad everyone had a great time :) A friend recorded the radio interview for me, so I now have it to keep on my iTunes. The cover is fantastic, and the secret about something in the cookies to get us hooked makes perfect sense! (It's on BBC Radio iPlayer right now, which is available in all countries I think.)

The gig shounds like it would have been fantastic, great to hear how much fun everybody has had at it :)

[pianofan]

http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/adultchild/Duke%20Special/P1000656.jpg http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/adultchild/Duke%20Special/P1000657.jpghttp://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y130/adultchild/Duke%20Special/P1000658.jpg


[At least the VERY strict camera police didn't stop me taking these!!)

A truly wonderful last gig of this leg of the tour - gorgeous venue, celebs galore, lush seats, rockin' performances, some very moving performances and an amazing cover of "I'm Still Standing" (a special mention goes to the very fine vocal chords of a few audience members directly around me!) I am still reeling from the shows I managed to get to - the albums just do not prepare you for the theatricality, sheer power and emotion on the stage. Having said that, the memories of the live performances and the albums will suffice unless I win the lottery in time to make a few trips across the water!

A HUUUUGE thank you to every member of the band for your talents and your likeability, nay- lovability (?!) :o

[Dawn S]

Wow, what a fantastic few weeks I've just had. I was lucky enough to get to 6 of the gigs. I can't even adequately put into words just how brilliant each of the gigs have been. There have been so many memorable moments and it's been great meeting up with so many boardies who I now consider to be friends for life. I mentioned to Duke that we've become a great community. London and Nottingham were my favourites, partly because of the boisterous audiences.

Now that I've been back home long enough I've uploaded my videos from the last few gigs and also my photos. As pianofan just mentioned there were a lot of "camera police" at the Shaw Theatre on Thursday so I didn't take any photos of Duke and the band. Also my ones in Bristol didn't come out that well because of the lighting.

Some of my favourite photos from Nottingham and Cardiff:

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6cJmKpb_8LY/S-35XowJ37I/AAAAAAAALYo/druhEqdHUX0/s640/P1020285.JPG

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6cJmKpb_8LY/S-35VBWzefI/AAAAAAAALYE/KOL3FYxki_s/s640/P1020274.JPG

Hector Duke (as made by atkygal)
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6cJmKpb_8LY/S-35OUD9l_I/AAAAAAAALWo/FPEb7L_Fkw4/s512/P1020258.JPG

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6cJmKpb_8LY/S-35s9a_LJI/AAAAAAAALdg/QNCg6JBsRAY/s640/P1020422.JPG

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_6cJmKpb_8LY/S-356hGhgiI/AAAAAAAALgY/PHEtSj9AGPg/s640/P1020465.JPG

Full set: Nottingham photos (http://picasaweb.google.com/dawnsalsbury/DukeSpecialNottingham080510)
Full set: Cardiff photos (http://picasaweb.google.com/dawnsalsbury/DukeSpecialCardiff120510)

My videos are taking hours to upload but they will all be in the following playlist:
http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=9B52B7385B007CD5

But here's the one which I think might be particularly interested in seeing:

m0HZgAPB9Ok

Crikey, sorry for the length of my post :redface: I hope you enjoy the photos and videos anyway.

[pianofan]

http://lh4.ggpht.com/_6cJmKpb_8LY/S-35s9a_LJI/AAAAAAAALdg/QNCg6JBsRAY/s640/P1020422.JPG


Oh my, love this photo - have stolen it and it is now my computer wallpaper!! ( A piano fan just HAD to ;))
Great photos and video - wonderful reminders of the shows, thank you :o

[jeanette]

Crikey, sorry for the length of my post :redface: I hope you enjoy the photos and videos anyway.

Thank you so much for sharing these, Dawn, especially the video. I've watched it a few times since you posted and it just gets better every time. It's now beginning to sound like a completely different song from the original Elton version!

BTW, what is this thing with camera police? I can quite understand why an artist might not want lots of flashes going off during a performance, but I didn't think mobile phones were a particular problem. I was practically stopped reaching for mine in my handbag!

Apologies if I sound naive about this but Thursday was the first gig I'd been to in ages and I just don't remember this sort of thing happening before. Is it a copyright issue? Perhaps some wiser boardies could clarify?

[pianofan]

BTW, what is this thing with camera police? I can quite understand why an artist might not want lots of flashes going off during a performance, but I didn't think mobile phones were a particular problem. I was practically stopped reaching for mine in my handbag!



Artist AND audience usually find flash photography distracting and most people would not dream of using flash at a concert (if you are a way back in a seated venue, there isn't usually a lot of point anyway!!)

I did ask the Shaw Theatre for their policy on photography and they said absolutely forbidden and a lady near me, who had her memory card taken, asked and they said that no photography was at the request of the band's management.

I do like to take [discreetly, I hasten to add) clips of songs that I want to watch over and over, and to sometimes share with like-minded friends or as a recommendation. Discretion and respect is important and if I heard that someone did not want their performances filmed, then fair enough. Before this tour, Duke posted that he would prefer the Pledge gigs not to be filmed ...clearly stated and respected! I am sure that bands-or 'their people'- look at their message boards and if they see links to youtube etc. and really did not approve ...they would be taken down or they would make their feelings known. I confess that I have taken a couple of amazing clips on this tour but would not put them "out there" until the tour is over - but that's just me.
The danger in condoning photography especially, is that with modern technology - people could for example, film a whole show and sell it, taking funds due to our musical heroes!! Grrrr!!!

As a tailnote to this diatribe ....I usually take one video clip of any lesser known support bands I see and always ask if they would like me to put it on t'interweb ...without exception, they have always been more than happy (promotion is a good thing, right?)

:o

[jeanette]

Thank you Pianofan, I am enlightened! :o

[Delly]

I'm just coming down after our jaunt around the UK stalking..... er, supporting Duke and the band.

What a fabulous time we've had listening to such timeless and eclectic music so brilliantly performed by this wonderful man and these incredibly talented musicians. It has truly been (as always) a priviledge to witness him in action sharing his art with the world. I've laughed and cried my way through several shows and have been in awe every night. The amount of work and dedication that goes into his performances is obviously huge, and yet he makes it seem effortless.

Anyone who has spoken to Peter after the shows will know that he always graciously thanks people for coming. How are we ever going to get him to realise that it is us who should be thanking him profusely for the joy he brings into our lives? I have tried, but I too have Jeanette's gibberish gene unfortunately:rolleyes:

On a slightly less dramatic note, it has been fab meeting up with boardies and friends old and new, thank you so much to you all too for making it even more enjoyable........same time next year folks? :D

Except for the maddest of us all of course, who start again in a couple of weeks .....:o

[Mrfizzy]

I'm just coming down after our jaunt around the UK stalking..... er, supporting Duke and the band.

Except for the maddest of us all of course, who start again in a couple of weeks .....:o

I can't imagine who you might be referring to Delly but there are one or two of us that think it will be fun to join our Irish friends for some of the second half of the tour on the mainland :o