In conjunction with the management team of Tavistock Leisure, Blue Diamonds are trying to set up regular  "musical soiree"  on a Sunday afternoon in the large ballroom of the Roker Hotel. They aim to attract some top musicians to what they hope will become THE place to go for live music in Sunderland. Initially, Blue Diamonds will be the "Resident Band,"  for want of a better description, and have guest bands, duo's, solo artistes etc. They are planning to try it out on Sunday 18 May from 2 - 8pm so they hope to see as many folk as possible. Anyone who might have any suggestions on how they might like to see this venture evolve, please let them know via the "Contact Us" page on their website thebluediamonds.co.uk
 

The Rolling Stones tribute band Stoned Again make a welcome return to Darlington after a four year absence when they played to a packed house at the town's Arts Centre.
The event will take place on Friday 16th May in the Arts Centre's East Hall. Stoned Again are regarded by many as the ultimate Rolling Stones tribute act and have been paying homage to the original band for over fourteen years. Local tribute band The Paul Rodgers Story will be supporting Stoned Again, so a great night in prospect for fans of 60's / 70's Rock music. The gig has been arranged by Gasto Promotions who organised last years Jimi Hendrix 40th anniversary gig when Hendrix played Darlington in 1967.
Tickets are available from the box office on 01325-486555 priced £13:00
 
 
 
 

WILDSIDE PROMISE MORE THAN JUST WALKING
New band Wildside are playing their debut gig at the Fat Ox Whitley Bay on Friday 2nd may, comprising of Martin O'nions (ex Revolver) vocals, Phil Martin lead guitar, Phil Finlay bass, Keith Moore drums (notice most of Sticky Fingers) and Wilf Vissenga (ex Wooden Doll) on rhythm guitar and surgical appliances. Playing a mix of classic rock, newer stuff and originals, the band are looking to play just 1 or 2 times a month but Phil told Riffs: 'We guarantee a rockin' neet!!!'
 

Change of band for this Saturday (26) at the Grand Hotel in Bishop Auckland. Skinflint have had to cancel, so now the Poor Boys are playing instead.

'LYNYRD SKYNYRD MEETS MOLLY HATCHET'
THIS THURSDAY AT THE THREE TUNS
Skinny Molly featuring ex Lynyrd Skynyrd frontmam Mike Estes are appearing at The Three Tuns this Thursday April 24th. Skinny Molly features the former Lynyrd Skynyrd and Artimus Pyle Band guitarist Mike Estes. Long regarded as one of the South’s very best guitarists Mike originally wrote songs for The Rossington Collins Band & Lynyrd Skynyrd before being asked to join Skynyrd. Mike was subsequently inducted into the Hollywood Hall of Fame and played on the band’s legendary 1995 “Endangered Species” and “Southern Knights” CD’s as well as on the “100 Minutes of Skynyrd” DVD. Back in 1973 Lynyrd Skynyrd changed the course of rock music by leading a new Classic Rock scene from the south, The debut album “Pronounced Leh-nerd-skin-nerd” included the anthem “Freebird”, and the band went on to sell 26 million records. Tragically a plane killed several band members and their road crew, and it was only 10 years later that Skynyrd reformed with members of their extended musical family. By the mid 90’s the South’s leading guitarist Mike Estes joined Skynyrd for their first acoustic release and award winning DVD. It was one of the most exciting later Lynyrd Skynyrd line-ups ever! Now comes Skinny Molly recalling the best of Skynyrd and Mike Estes: including “Gimme Three Steps”, “Call Me The Breeze”, “Saturday Night Special”, “Sweet Home Alabama”, “That Smell”, “Simple Man”, “What’s Your Name”, “Freebird” plus Mike’s own “Straight Shooter” & “She’s Rockin” etc… Skinny Molly plays Lynyrd Skynyrd meets Molly Hatchet/Blackfoot/The Outlaws etc… This is Classic Southern rock ‘n’ boogie played by the best in the business from the Deep South! Contact the venue for last minute ticket details.

An injury at work to the Three Mustgetbeers' drummer, Les, this weekend's gig at Paddywhacks in Sunderland has had to be postponed to another date.

ORIGINAL BLACK ROSE UPLOAD DEMO TRACKS
Steve from heavy rockers Black Rose has been in touch with Riffs to let us know that they've finally finished a 4 track demo which is part of the 12 or so tracks they're doing for the new album, hopefully going to be released sometime later this year. Samples of this demo are available to listen to at www.myspace.com/blackroserockband
They have had loads of requests to do some live shows at various festivals but at the moment it's not looking likely that the band can accept the offers. More news from the band when we get it..........

MUSIC FESTIVALS SEEK BANDS 
We still have some slots left for the 5 music festivals in Bedlington. Dates are: 15th & 29th June, 13th & 27th July and the 10th of August. if you would like to take part contact Ken on 07884224831 or e mail HPhillipson06@aol.com

BANK HOLIDAY MONDAY 5TH MAY 
ANOTHER MUSIC FESTIVAL BY THE RIVER 
THE ROPERY, WEBSTERS BANK, DEPTFORD start 2pm.  After the great success of Easter Monday's Music Festival at the Ropery, there is another great line up for bank holiday Monday 5th May. The day will start at 2pm with THE YOUNG CARTWRIGHTS, followed by INFINITY, THE RATTLERS and then THE GRUMPY OLD MEN. On this ocassion it will be outside (weather of course permitting), and as usual will be child friendly. Bouncy castles, and face painting are being provided for the kids giving them something to do whilst their parents enjoy the bands. Of course, as usual food can be obtained from the pub, and a Fosters beer promotion will be operating. Lets make it another great day out! 

BITING THE BULLET
Are Bullett putting their reputation on the line? Wanting to push a certain gig on the News page very rarely gets Val's 'okay' but she has given the thumbs up to publicise Bullet's gig at the Three Tuns this Friday (18th) - but the band are now in the spotlight to turn in a tremendous gig. Gregg told Riffs: 'it's the 1st time for the guys here and they cant wait to make it a special night! if you love your rock hard ' heavy! get yourself down and kick start the weekend in fine style.' Let's hope Gregg and the guys can walk the walk........let Riffs know how they do....

ARE CIRCUSES ELECTRIC?
Local band The Electric Circus are regulars on the club circuit but would very much like more gigs in pubs. The lads have have all been in well known local bands such as Deek The Juice, Karma, Alexanders Palace, The Smalltown Heroes, Working Class, Dee Dowling Band etc. Band member Ian has been in  Deek The Juice for around four years, getting to know Pete Carr, Johna, and Kevin Scott (ex Smalltown Heroes with Baz Warne) who is the drummer in The Electric Circus at present. Recently playing in Teesside and in Yorkshire it may not be too long before we see The Electirc Circus regularly in Riffs Gig Listings................www.myspace.com/theelectricgroup

FM FOR THE GRAND THIS FRIDAY
It looks like there is some confusion over FMs gig this Friday April 11th. Some listings have the band down for Saturday but this is NOT the case. FM are definitely playing the Grand Hotel on FRIDAY 11th not SATURDAY. Landlord Simon keeps Val up to date with all his gigs and would be the first to give her a swift tongue lashing if she should get it wrong................... 

BAE LIVE AT TERMINAL 5
The Bryan Adams Experience are now officially the first band (and probably the last) to ever play a live gig at Terminal 5, Heathrow Airport. After a very long and frustating day travelling back from a gig in Holland the band finally arrived at the now legendary Terminal 5 to be told that they'd have to stay there overnight as no flights or hotels were available. Always keen to make something out of a bad situation the boys decided it'd be a bit of a giggle get the guitars out and perform a few songs for all the poor stranded passengers. They assembled a makeshift drum kit out of a cardboard box, strapped on the axes and away they went, banging out a few Bryan Adams hits to ease everyone's frustation. A truly bizarre moment!
 
 

LIVE MUSIC IS ON . . . ER, SORRY, OFF
Well, can you believe it? After Slip of the Tongue played a great set to loads of people at the White Horse in Darlington on a cold and miserable Sunday night - the venue's first ever gig, the manager decided to cancel all bands, but still promising to put on a tribute band 'regularly'. Ashamed to come from the town myself; let's face it, with this sort of attitude is it any wonder we just can't attract any decent bands - Quaker House excepted (and the Arts Centre does a good job). The White Horse would have been a very decent venue for live music, although it does have houses nearby and at first I thought that may have been behind the rash decision. Oh well, yet another venue comes and goes - and must hold the record for how quick!!

Can John or one of the lads from Freeway contact Paul at the Three Tuns on 07940715824 or paul@justviziting.com as there appears to be some confusion over a future gig

DIABLO have just released their third studio recording! This time it is singer Davy Peckett's long awaited solo album of another ten of his original compositions, entitled "Quietly In The Background".  Davy plays 90% of the instruments as well as all vocals.  There are added guest backing vocals by Samantha Hutchinson from Allendale and Borderland's Mark Harrison. Additional musicians include Steve, Paul and Dave from DIABLO, plus Les Smith from Borderland on keyboards.  Like DIABLO's "A Violet Scent Of Rose", Davy's album was recorded here in Newcastle at Base HQ Studios and was engineered by Rich McCoull.  The album is now available at all DIABLO gigs or from Overplay.co.uk (where you also hear some of the tracks), and a CD launch date will be announced shortly. The tracks are: Go On; Last Chance; One Life (Tell My Mind); Panic Attack; Read My Story; Regrets; Run Away;
Sayonara (2008); Washed Out and Your Road. If anyone would like a copy, and is not able to make a gig imminently, just email our usual address: dave2109@btinternet.com and we'll arrange to get one to you. The album carries a special price of just £8 - and if there's anyone out there who doesn't have Diablo's "Violet Scent Of Rose" debut album, we have a special offer on of both albums for £15.

HardRockHouse Is proud To Announce Danny Vaughn, Live & Acoustic At Christmas, a special festive show taking place at The Cluny in Newcastle on Saturday December 13th. Tickets priced at £12 in advance are available now direct from ww.hardrockhouse.com Check out http://www.hardrockhouse.com for all the latest UK hard rock and heavy metal happenings..

PTAINS OF INDUSTRY (2003 – 2008) RIP
Captains Of Industry record label announces dissolution. To celebrate our 5th anniversary record label Captains Of Industry is ceasing trading as of 1st April 2008. Captains Of Industry began life as a collective in 2003. Outlined in a series of communiqués we detailed a ‘5 Year Plan’ (“to release some cool records”). Those five years have now passed and the circle is complete. Captains Of Industry exit just as they entered – with dignity and health intact. No bitterness, no bankruptcies, no falling’s out. The recently launched Captains Of Industry Books imprint will continue. Entirely self-funded and existing for its duration in a time of major transition for music, without so much as an office, phone-line or ‘fruit and flowers’ budget, from 2003 to 2008 Captains Of Industry have released over 40 singles, EPs and albums by bands from the UK, USA, Australia, Iceland and Switzerland. The artists are: 21 Gun Salute, An Emergency, Blood Valley, Coyote Men, Future Ex Wife, Favez, Gay for Johnny Depp, The Grates, Hell Is For Heroes, Illegal Movers, Kinesis, Letrix, Louie, Marmadule Duke, Minus, Peace Burial At Sea, Silicon Vultures, The Sound Explosion, Sucioperro, TEAM and We Will Be Pilots. Captains Of Industry could not have existed without help from Cargo Records, James Sherry at Division Promotions, Justin Schlosberg, Chay Woodman and many great bands and supporters. Captains Of Industry were Lee Milmore, Ben Myers, Richard Myers and Gary Robson.
Visit www.captainsof.com Minister Of Information & Propaganda Ben Myers is available for comment: ben@captainsof.com
 

RUSS TIPPINS IN MEGA CHARITY NIGHT AT TRILLIANS
Russ Tippins used to play in Wheelbarrows From Hell, with Jeff and bassist John (Mono) McConnell. Mono lost his wife Yvonne at Christmas to a heart attack; she was only 43. Mono is organising a multi band rock night at Trillians to not only Give Yvonne a big send-off, but also to raise funds for the Critical Care unit at Q.E. Gateshead, whose wonderful staff tried for three days to revive her. This will take place Thursday 15th May, and for anyone who fancies coming down to Trills, here's what they'll get for their £5 admission... Sticky Fingers! Sabbatica! as well as Wheelbarrows From Hell, and Fiver For Ya Dog - Mono's current band. Advance tickets can be ordered thru the Zep3 website here http://www.zep3.co.uk.
 
 

The Divide do not now have a singer and are unable to continue gigging. To keep up to date though, you can check their website for future news and comeback: www.myspace.com/thedivideuk
 

Hi Riffs,
Correct mobile number for Paul at the Philadelphia is
07809091629
Cheers
Col (Beckett)
 

hi guys,there is an article on your news page asking for bands to ring paul at the philadelphia pub in philadelphia as they are going to start to put bands on however when i have tried to ring the mobile number that is on there it comes up as unobtainable,just wondered if you could put something on your news page to try and get paul from the philadelphia to get in touch with yourselves with the correct phone number.cheers.paul (koncept)
 

LYNYRD SKYNYRD MEETS MOLLY HATCHET
Skinny Molly featuring ex Lynyrd Skynyrd frontmam Mike Estes have been snapped up for The Three Tuns on Thursday April 24th. Skinny Molly features the former Lynyrd Skynyrd and Artimus Pyle Band guitarist Mike Estes. Long regarded as one of the South’s very best guitarists Mike originally wrote songs for The Rossington Collins Band & Lynyrd Skynyrd before being asked to join Skynyrd. Mike was subsequently inducted into the Hollywood Hall of Fame and played on the band’s legendary 1995 “Endangered Species” and “Southern Knights” CD’s as well as on the “100 Minutes of Skynyrd” DVD. Back in 1973 Lynyrd Skynyrd changed the course of rock music by leading a new Classic Rock scene from the south, The debut album “Pronounced Leh-nerd-skin-nerd” included the anthem “Freebird”, and the band went on to sell 26 million records. Tragically a plane killed several band members and their road crew, and it was only 10 years later that Skynyrd reformed with members of their extended musical family. By the mid 90’s the South’s leading guitarist Mike Estes joined Skynyrd for their first acoustic release and award winning DVD. It was one of the most exciting later Lynyrd Skynyrd line-ups ever! Now comes Skinny Molly recalling the best of Skynyrd and Mike Estes: including “Gimme Three Steps”, “Call Me The Breeze”, “Saturday Night Special”, “Sweet Home Alabama”, “That Smell”, “Simple Man”, “What’s Your Name”, “Freebird” plus Mike’s own “Straight Shooter” & “She’s Rockin” etc… Skinny Molly plays Lynyrd Skynyrd meets Molly Hatchet/Blackfoot/The Outlaws etc… This is Classic Southern rock ‘n’ boogie played by the best in the business from the Deep South! That's Thursday April 24 and tickets priced at £5 will be available from Wednesday 26th March. Only 150 though so get them quick.

THE ROPERY, WEBSTERS BANK, DEPTFORD Easter Monday
MUSIC FESTIVAL STARTING AT 2PM AND PRESENTING 
APEX 
REET HOT CHILLI PEPPERS 
T-ROX 
DIABLO 

Tygers of Pan Tang are truly rockin' this Friday 21st March at the Newcastle Academy 2. Doors open at 7.00 pm with a curfew at 10.00pm. Afterwards the venue follows the gig with a Classic Rock Night which continues to 2.00am. 
Tour support is Whitefire and it will be the last gig for them with the Tygers so it will be a special night.
 
 

Local promoter seeks Guns n Roses tribute. Please contact Riffs in the first instance.

The Blueshounds are pleased to announce their return and hope to be ready for gigging from June onwards this year. The line up will be slightly different this time as they are minus a keyboard player and now have a different bass player. The band were becoming very popular prior to their split in September last year and hope to pick up from where they left off.

This Saturdays gig at The Duke is off. WATERSHED play the TRIMMERS ARMS in South Shields instead for the same landlord. www.watershed.freehomepage.com

RIOT AT WARDLEY ROCK NIGHT TOMORROW
According to the website for the rock band Riot, they are playing at the Wardley Arms tomorrow night (Friday) BUT Riffs is happy to point out that they are, in fact, playing at The Wardley Rock Night at the Legion in Gateshead. Cover charge is just £1 and worth every penny to see a fine bunch of musicians and one of the best vocalists in the north-east (and he's always smiling).....
 
 
 

Zeb Walton (Bass) has decided to leave Damage Control and return to his roots with Maiden England. We are pleased to announce that Colin Hird ( Zep3) has agreed to join the band,whilst also with taking up a full time position in Black Rose. Unfortunately we have had to cancel the Office gig on the 20th March, but expect to be ready for the Pemberton arms on the 28th. The band would like to wish Zeb all the best in the future.

NO DUST ON THESE TOOLS!
Had an absolutely fantastic night with the Dusty Tools last night (Friday) at a lovely pub in Coundon called the Durham Ox. The musicianship was frighteningly spot on from a lovely bunch of lads who have been around long enough for me to say that, in effect, the Dusty Tools are like a local 'supergroup'. Talked with singer Johna for nearly all the time he wasn't on stage and I enjoyed every minute of it. The PA would have done the City Hall; and the three- and four-part harmonies left me breathless. Some superb MOR classics including Baker Street (just love that sax); Hotel California; Go Your Own Way; and some rockier ones that kept Nige happy - Boys Are Back in Town and Down Down, to show that these guys CAN rock if need be. Full review and some rather good pics by Riffs lensman who I may just keep on for a little while longer after he got some praise for his Whey Aye C/DC pics from frontman Johna. Will try and get the review completed in the next day or two...
Val  xxx

Top rock venue Crook Town FC is trying out a new Sunday Afternoon gig slot to meet the incessant demand for live music in Crook. It launches this Sunday (March 9th) with explosive rockers Molotov Dragons who’ll hit the stage at 4pm with their usual firebrand of classic rock and punk. The venue and the band would appreciate support from anyone looking for a few afternoon drinks and some live rock to round off the weekend.
 
 

'The Whodlums caused a sensation at the Ku Bar in Stockton last Saturday night when,  at the end of the show, just like the originals, the drummer smashed some cymbals and the guitarist did a 'Pete Townsend' and smashed his Fender on stage. Great show' - Robert
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Maddog would like to thank all the bands who offered to play for the up and coming charity nite at the wardley rock nite.   Riffs now have the full lineup.
The Glammed,  Molotov Dragons,  This Machine, AK7.
The Gig is on the 6th June and its for JUST FOR KIDS this charity help all local kids
the nite start at 7pm and finishes at 11.30pm, Tickets are £4.avalible from the rock nite and if any are left then you can pay on the door at £5, there will also be a Raffle so if anyone wants to donate a prize just drop it off at the Wardley legion Club, or at Metro Radio care of Alan Robson (don't forget to tell them its for the wardley rock nite charity do).

Fizzyfish have had to cancel their gig at the Grange in Sunderland this coming Thursday, as 'throat lurgy has got me bad!' Alan Fizzfish told Riffs.

September 12 sees a rock double header at the Tyne Theatre in Newcastle featuring Iron Maiden tribute Maiden England, and Whitesnake tribute Slip of the Tongue. Tickets, £10 can be obtained from the venue or Ticketmaster. They go on sale from Friday 16th May.
 

25 years on from their last live show Punishment of Luxury will play a one off gig at Gateshead's Three Tuns on Sunday 6th July 2008. Tickets are £5 from the pub and go on sale Monday 12th May. These tickets will fly out so get yours as soon as you can. The boys are rehearsing hard and spies say they sound as fresh and wonderful as ever. A special support act to be announced first on Riffs will make this a night to remember . . .
 

Reload have had a new video made from footage of their last gig at Washington football club. The video was made by a school friend of Neil's daughter who is doing A-level media studies. 'I think he sees himself as the next Steven Spielburg' said Neil. You can see it on youtube using the following link
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zhoGqUMcM2s
or it can be accessed through the Reload website www.reloadonline.co.uk
 

Tickets for the 10th Maryport Blues Festival will go on sale on Friday, May 2nd 
MAIN STAGE
These are available from three outlets
1. The Carnegie Theatre, Finkle Street, Workington, Cumbria CA14 2BD
Tel: 01900 602122 
2. Ticketline  www.ticketline.co.uk  or tel 0871 424 4444 or online 24hrs/day.
3. Maryport Festivals Ltd, Maritime Museum, 1 Shipping Brow
Maryport, CA15 6AB Tel: 01900 817200 (no credit cards sales) 
and also on the door (subject to availability)
Main stage ticket prices are :
. Friday £35
. Saturday £45 (afternoon and evening sessions)
. Sunday £45 (afternoon and evening sessions) 
. WEEKEND £95 
A weekend ticket represents a saving of £30 over individual tickets. Also The weekend main stage ticket includes a free weekend trail wrist band worth £12, giving a total saving of £42 for individual tickets giving access to all bands over the festival weekend. 
Despite a significant increase in expenditure on main stage artists, the weekend ticket price is the same as last year at £95. This is excellent for money and we estimate that if you would pay well over £200 to see all the artists in individual concerts. Also, this is an opportunity to see major artists in a 2000 capacity marquee rather than outside amongst an audience of many thousands. The full main stage programme is now on the website.
Trail Wrist Bands 
These give access to all the trail venues around the town and the two outdoor stages: Senhouse Stage and the American Stage.
Trail prices :
. Per day £5
. Weekend £12
Trail are available from The Carnegie Theatre and Maryport Festivals Ltd, details above. Wrist bands are not available from the venues.
A full list of the artists appearing on the trail is on the festival website.
All ticket sales are subject to the terms and conditions as detailed on the festival website
For further information please e-mail info@maryportblues.com or contact The Festival Office 01900 817200

Apology from Rock Solid
To anyone who turned up to expecting to see Rock Solid play at the above venue on Friday 25th April.  We arrived at the venue in good time to set up for the evening, to be informed by the Club that we had been double booked for the main function room with a private birthday party.  RS had checked out the size of the main room, on a previous visit and had brought our full PA rig to suit the size of the venue, as the main hall is a large room.  The Club offered us an alternative venue which was a small lounge situated at the far side of the club away from the carpark on the first floor.  The gear that we brought was not suitable for the alternative room and the logistics of getting it there in place were impossible.  To this end we unfortunately and regrettably decided to pull the gig. We checked out the private party at around 7.30 and there was about 20 people in the room, to which we suggested to the club that the private party should have been in the smaller room and that we could have set up where we believed we were to play.  Had the Club rang and informed us of the change of venue then we could have brought a smaller rig and we would have fulfilled our obligation to play.  We all have full time jobs and we play in Rock Solid because we enjoy it!!  To load up the van with all of the gear and turn up at the venue to play takes a lot of dedication, we ideed did this on Friday evening however it was the venue that let us and anyone travelling to see us down.  Rock Solid do not have a reputation for cancelling gigs and if we have to, for reasons beyond our control, then we would give as much notice to the venue as possible.  On this occasion we hold the venue responsible for our actions, if they had prior informed us of the alternative plans then we could have accomodated them. Rock Solid, once again, would like to apologise to anyone who turned up at the venue expecting to see us play and we were all gutted that we had to pull the gig having made all the effort to get there.  Hope to see soon.
Regards,
Cosh and all the lads from Rock Solid.

THE 10th MARYPORT BLUES FESTIVAL 2008
www.maryportblues.com
Friday July 25th to Sunday July 27th 
The legendary CHUCK BERRY, one of the most influential figures in popular music and one of the pioneers of rock and roll music, will headline the Friday night at the Maryport Blues Festival on Friday July 25th. Chuck Berry is the most important rock & roll artist; a great songwriter, guitarist and performer. John Lennon said "If you tried to give rock and roll another name, you might call it 'Chuck Berry'." But Chuck Berry's roots are in the blues, and he played in blues bands, before travelling to Chicago in 1955 to meet Muddy Waters and  Leonard Chess of Chess Records. Berry thought his blues material would be of most interest to Chess, but to his surprise it was an old country and western recording, entitled "Ida Red" that got Chess's attention. Chess had seen the blues market shrink and was looking to move beyond the rhythm and blues market, and he thought Berry might be that artist who could do it. So on May 21, 1955 Berry covered "Ida Red" (renamed "Maybellene") with Johnny Johnson, Jerome Green (from Bo Diddley's band) on the maracas, Jasper Thomas on the drums and blues legend Willie Dixon on the bass. "Maybellene" sold over a million copies, reaching #1 on Billboard's Rhythm and Blues chart and #5 on the Hot 100. The rest is history. Berry was among the first musicians to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on its opening in 1986. He received Kennedy Center Honors in 2000 in a "class" with Mikhail Baryshnikov, Plácido Domingo, Angela Lansbury, and Clint Eastwood. In 2004, Rolling Stone ranked Chuck Berry #5 on their list of The Immortals: The First Fifty. He was also ranked 6th on Rolling Stone's 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame included three of Chuck Berry's songs (Johnny B. Goode, Maybellene, Rock & Roll Music), of the 500 songs that shaped Rock and Roll. At maryport, Chuck will supported by DARLIN INGRID BERRY-CLAY- Vocals and harmonica, CHARLES BERRY Junior -guitar, JAMES MARSALA -bass, JEAN MICHEL BIGER - Drummer , DANIEL T. ROSSING -Piano

The return of buskers nights on Tuesdays at the George Stephenson in West Moor has lasted merely 4 weeks before the new boss has pulled the plug. Decca, Den, Claire, Pete and Keith would like to thank everyone who came down in that time and would like to remind people that there are still plenty of good open mic / buskers nights out there, including the Magnesia Bank (every Monday), the Avalon ('Raw Music Night' every Tuesday), the Porthole (N.Shields - every Tuesday) and the King's Arms at Seaton Sluice (every Wednesday).

Watershed have some new tracks to listen to. Check them out here www.myspace.com/watershedrockband
 

Rock the Barn is a rock venue set on a farm at Wingate Grange, co Durham in a where they have a stage with a 4k pa set up & lights & a fully stocked bar. You can turn up during the day and set up a tent or bring a caravan, have some beers, watch some bands then dance away to rock & metal all night long. They even have a burger van! The details of the next one; TNT Promotions Present ... Rock the Barn at Wingate Grange Farm, Saturday 26th April:  A Thousand Lies - Underwings - Dead by December 
Rock DJ - Phill Brass; £6 entry including free camping! torichrystal@hotmail.com or www.myspace.com/rockthebarn
 

DUSTYS AT THE ROPERY
The much-talked-about Dusty Tools are gigging healthily at the moment but there seems to be some confusion amongst the media concerning their gig on May 11th. As Riffs has always had it - it is at the Ropery and they take to the stage at 6.00.
 
 
 

The big charity gig at the Belvedere Club, Bishop Auckland, on May 3 in aid of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome boasts a fantastic line up featuring: Tygers of Pan Tang (who are flying their singer over from Italy at no cost to the organisers),Captain Rock, Sabbatica, The Bandits, Gary Grainger, Skeik Ya Mojo, Toxic Pixies and The Unnamed with Heavy as Hell Rockshow providing the sounds and lights between bands. Magic Marty will be providing stage lighting for the day. Tickets are selling fast but there are still a few remaining.....
 
 

WHITWORTH HALL BEER FESTIVAL
NOW AT THE GRAND HOTEL
Singer Daz from AC/DC tribute Whey Aye C/DC informs us that the Whitworth Hall Beer Festival on 9th May has been changed to the Grand Hotel in Bishop Auckland. Apparently Simon from the Grand was not too happy with the arrangements and with him knowing exactly what makes a good concert has now decided it would be better at the Grand. Apart from loads of specialist beers and drinks on, there is also plans for  an outside barbecue too, but Riffs is awaiting confirmation from Simon. We will host more info as soon as we get it. 
 

Paul, from The Civic Hall in Shildon, has been in touch with Riffs with this info: 'The mainstay of our business is mainly through our restaurant trade and private functions ie weddings, birthdays etc. However we have a large function suite with an even larger stage (originally built for theatre) that I am trying to maximise use of apart from private hirings by putting on music events as and when we have vacancies.  We have put on various tribute acts U2, Cliff Richards, Blues Bros, Madonna, Robbie Williams so far with Four Tops, Madness, Freddie Mercury, The Jam, Take That and The Village People to come later in the year. We have had the Fortunes & Dreamers play with other 60’s Groups appearing The Ivy League, Love Affair, Clem Curtis & Foundations, Union Gap, Everley Bros Show. We also try and support local bands of various genes with there own gig or supporting 1 of the afore mentioned bands some that are playing here this year are The Steady Boys, FreeArfa, The Departed, Broken Yellow Pencils, Damaged Angels, Modern Works, Loaf, Whiplazh, Megaladon, Skamania, Revival, The Northern Boyz.'You can find out further info about the venue at www.myspace.com/musicatthecivic_shildon  Paul continued: 'I am trying to get people to realise that we are also a serious music venue for all music styles. Whilst on our site please take a look at the charity concert we are doing on Sun Oct 26th for a very worthwhile national/international organisation called ROCK AGAINST CHILD PORNOGRAPHY.'

CLASSIC CLAPTON: Masham Town Hall – Saturday 10th May
CLASSIC CLAPTON, possibly the World's No1 Eric Clapton Tribute Band, featuring frontman Mike Hall, will be making their first ever appearance in Masham in May. The band will be performing at Masham Town Hall, North Yorkshire on Saturday 10 May.  Doors open at 7.00pm.  Band on stage at 8.30pm.  Tickets priced £12 are available from the venue - Tel: 01765 680200.  More information is available at www.visitmasham.com  They will perform all of EC's classic songs including Wonderful Tonight, Tears in Heaven, Crossroads, I Shot The Sheriff, Cocaine, Lay Down Sally and of course Layla!  There will even be an “UNPLUGGED” segment. Pic from the band's recent tour of Spain. 

MORE FROM DISTRACTION
Hey!
Bit of a late update this one, but we had a good excuse - we were cleaning the Head Of Steam in Newcastle from all the flotsam and jetsam that the Poundland party section provides. . . indeed, the Moira Stewart album launch Moirageddon session was E-number-fuelled adrenalin on a grandiose scale, so many thanks to all those that made it, and apologies to those that didn't (take a deeks at the Moira Stewart myspace to find out when they're playing next) - the place sold out within twenty minutes and so we had to turn a LOT of folk away. . .
So anyway! This week sees the Moira Stewart debut opus maximus 'Sweetness, Yes!' make its way into many of the world's top record stores, and what a little corker it is: ten tracks, forty-odd minutes worth of sublime electropop to put even a smile on bitter old harridan Carol McGiffen's boatrace. Hell, they should have it on the NHS as a Prozac supplement. And you can buy it from us right NOW for a measly sum below!
CD Album - UK orders
£6.99 inc. P+P 
CD Album - Europe orders
£7.99 inc. P+P 
CD Album - Rest of World orders
£8.99 inc. P+P 
And you can also buy 'Sweetness, Yes!' from itunes for actually more than what you would get it for on CD. Dunno how that works mind, sounds stupid to us, why not just buy the CD? I dunno, itunes. . . its rubbish. You might as well rip the songs from our last.fm page, though we'd imagine it'll be a clart on to tag the mp3s like.
Not got the d_rradio album yet? Crikey, what's wrong with you? It even put a smile on the face of a reviewer from The Wire (the chin-strokers tome of choice, not the hip US TV series), which we thought was bloody impossible, frankly. Cripes, get us releasing happy stuff. Just wait til that Big Oaks album is out, that'll turn your grin upside down.
Remember! You can still buy tickets for Stars Of The Lid at The Church of St. Thomas The Martyr in Newcastle-upon-Tyne from wegottickets. Do we HAVE to tell you AGAIN how influential and wonderful they are? Nope, we don't. Check them out at their myspace at least. Tickets are now finally available locally in Newcastle; huzzah eh?
And there you have it. Fantastic. Til next time. . .
info@distractionrecords.com

Can someone from the Fibbers contact the Victoria Inn at Cassop robvictoriainncassop@tiscali.co.uk

'YOU MAY BE DRESSED FOR ARMAGEDDON -
BUT WE ARE DRESSED FOR SUMMER'
Had a fantastic night last night (Tuesday) when the frenetic Hives played to a full house at the Carling Academy. I caught these crazy swedes two years ago at Leeds University where, again, they were superb. Last night they exceeded all expectations. Taking the stage at 9.20 the lead singer strode to the front of the stage and in a Swedish/American accent drawled: 'We are The Hives - and you love us'. From then on in it was non stop Rock with a punky edge that the Ramones would have been proud of. And how the hell do they manage that Time Freeze on stage? That must take some practising. 'It ain't Tuesday tonight,' the singer explained: 'It's Saturday night in Newcastle and the Mayor has agreed for this to be The Hives night - so let's rock!'  And rock we did. A splendid performance. Besides the singer, not one of the other band members uttered a word all night............

Spartan, On The Level & Arsenal of Freedom played a fundraiser for Cancer Research Stanley/Consett on April 5th and raised over £300 for the charity.The bad weather had a lot to do with keeping people indoors but the people who managed to get there made up for it,the night was fantastic and all the bands played their hearts out. Two of Spartan have signed up to undertake a 11 mile walk for Cancer Research on 11th of May, Kev 'the power' and Gazza 'the Hamster' decided to sign up for the walk on the night of the gig as Gazza's wife had suffered breast cancer a few years ago. Anyone interested in sponsoring the pair can do so at any of there forthcoming gigs as they will have their forms with them.
 

The Albion in Ryhope, Sunderland is looking to start putting on live bands. Any bands wanting to play send their details to this email address :   the-albion@hotmail.com. A buskers night is all set to start and Riffs will host details as soon as we have them.
 

BAZ TAKES ROBOT ELVIS TO SUNDERLAND
Lovely to see the Stranglers axe man and vocalist, Baz Warne, in his alter ego as Robot Elvis frontman at Paddywhacks in Sunderland on Friday (5th). The place was absolutely heaving and the set was a mixture of nearly every music genre going. Baz has many facets and in this guise he can cover the songs and tastes that the Stranglers never could. Review (plus pics of Baz in a suite) should be up tomorrow (Sunday).
 
 
 
 

The White Horse, North Road, Darlington are playing host to live bands on Sunday Evenings. The first band to play are Slip Of The Tongue, our own Whitesnake tribute, on Sunday 6th April. Following them a week later on the 13th April are Damage Control, then 1977 on 20th April. At the end of each month they are having a tribute band, see Riffs Listing page for details when we get them.. 

The Dirty South have landed the support slot for Hayseed Dixie at the Carling Academy on Monday night (31st).
 

Power trio Nightshift formed exclusively through Riffs Musicians Wanted page and have only recently started gigging but have been knocked out by the response they have received. Jon told Riffs: 'We would like to say thank you to all the punters for all their comments at the shows we have played so far, we are totally amazed at the feedback we have had. It makes all the hard effort we put into working out a set list that would suit all Rock Tastes worthwhile.' To find out more about the band please visit www.myspace.com/nightshiftmetal.
 

Tonight's (Tuesday 25) Buskers Night at Whitley Bay Residents Club is cancelled. It will be back next week, though, and every Tuesday thereafter.
 

The guitar post advertised by Maiden England has been filled by Atlantis Knight axe man Gary Johnston; and the bass job by original bass player Zeb Walton. Mark told Riffs: 'the band welcome the two lads and we can t wait to start gigging.' The band would also like to thank everyone who auditioned and wish them all the very best for the future..
 

Charity band night at the Attic in Chester le street on Tuesday 25th March 7pm til 11pm.Bands include, Sledge ,Destroy the MAP ,Rolling Thunder and Blind Radio. All bands are local to the area and money raised is to go The Scientific expedition to Honduras in summer 2008, by students of Lord Lawson of Beamish School who will be participating. 

Mojo Hand gig tonight (Saturday) at the Duke of Cumberland in Felling is postponed until a later date. 
 

Holiday Monday sees the first gig for Red Hot Chili Peppers Tribute 'The Reet Hot Chili Peppers' which Consists of Mark on Vocals, Adas on Drums (Rawmones,Roots Radicals, Magenta Thieves), Kev Charlton on Bass (Bessie & The Zinc Buckets), Jonny Rix (Formerly of Heavy Load). Their first gig is at The Ropery all day gig in Sunderland (with dep bassist Mark L from Vertigo as Kev is still away working on the SKi Resorts). Mark told Riffs: 'We are totally Hyped up about the gig and it will be nice to let Mark L play a gig with us as he has been a gem stepping in and helping out while Kev has been away.' The gig starts at 2pm at the running order is: Apex, Reet Hot Chili Peppers, T-Rox, Diablo
 
 

TEO Music is a Newcastle based Music Management and Promotions Company and we are pretty damn proud and excited to announce the opening of what we hope will become Newcastle’s best small venue for independent bands. The End music venue will be opening this Friday (21st March) and is aimed at the independent music scene both in the North East region and beyond, our aim is to provide a platform for bands and musicians of all genres to showcase their talents and fans to enjoy the fruits of their labour! We have a full weekend of live music featuring some fantastic bands for our grand re-opening, which is as follows;
Fri – Amber Souls/ The Talks/ The Lexingtons – Indie/ Ska
Sat – 27 Club/ Ghetto Method – Hip Hop/ Dub
Sun – Get Vegas/ Silo/ Fables Last Stand – Classic Blues Rock
Mon – Modes/ The Ramsays/ The Cliques - Indie

TUBESNAKE HONOURED IN ALCOHOL
Thousands of rock fans have raised a glass or two over the years to toast the exploits of North East rock band Tubesnake but now Pelaw Grange Greyhound Stadium have had a Real Ale brewed in their honour. Lead Singer and founder member of Tubesnake Lenny Mustarde is delighted at having a beer named after the band. ‘It will be cool to see a hand pump with our name on it and hope the taste is as good as our music! Pelaw Grange Stadium is the first Greyhound Track we have ever played at and we are all really looking forward to it.’ The ‘Tubesnake’ brew, specially commissioned by Bull Lane Brewer John Taylor, will be one of twelve real ales on sale at Pelaw Grange’s Fourth Annual Easter Beer Festival that starts on Thursday 20th March in conjunction with ten Greyhound Races that night. Then on Good Friday 21st the Tubesnake fans can sample the band’s honorary ale ahead of the gig that starts at 9pm in the concert room. Saturday the 22nd sees another blend of twelve action packed races running alongside the twelve real ales and ciders, followed by another day of the beer festival on Easter Sunday. The final day of festivities starts at 11am on bank holiday Monday where Twelve Open Races over all distances take centre stage with the final race off at 2.45 in the afternoon while the curtain comes down on the beer festival at midnight! Stadium owner Jeff McKenna has always been a lover of real ales and Pelaw Grange Stadium is the only track in the country with a Casque Mark awarded for the quality of beer served. ‘We are the only Greyhound Stadium in the country that holds a beer festival and it promises to be a great five days of festivities!’ …
 

Two new venues just starting off and are looking for the support to keep music live. Both venues are looking for good bands not to heavy and are starting to book just one band per month to start. The 1st is The Philadelphia Pub in Philadelphia,Good size room with small stage big enough for a band (not a fire place). The contact is Paul on 07809091629 and the fee is up to you to discuss.
The 2nd is the old Doxford Lad now known as Blakeneys Pub and Restaurant in Doxford Park, Sunderland and contact is Angela on 0191 5280119, again good size room but both are just starting off to see how it goes. Sunderland need venues so lets try and give these two a good run
Beckett

Free Convention 2008  Friday 18th April (7.00 – 1.00am)
at The Park Hotel Tynemouth 
Celebrating the 40th anniversary of Free’s first gig on 19th April 1968
Four Superb Bands:
 Heavy Load;
 Free Spirit;
 Basing Street Band;
 Get Vegas (recently featured in Classic Rock magazine)
Tickets £12 (or £15 on the door) from: 
•   The Park Hotel (0191 2571406) or 
•   Bill Flynn, 4, Mile End Close, Foulridge, Colne, Lancs. BB8 7LD  (01282) 868352 
Proceeds to the ‘Northern Brainwave Appeal’ at Newcastle General Hospital
 

Young rockers Bullet are at the Quaker in darlington this Wednesday 19th march and the Fleming in Shotton on Easter Sunday! The band plays Guns n Roses, Pearl Jam, Motley Crue etc 
 
 
 
 

'NAKED' BANDIT STORMS IT AT THE GRAND
Not heard a lot from the Bandits recently so pleased to hear from Mr Bad Bob himself that their gig last Saturday at the rockin' Grand in Bishop Auckland went down a storm. In BB's own words: 'Poor old Simon had to turn the power off cos we just kept on going, with Dave Lunn and Captain Rock up playing with us beyond normal set times. We had a great laugh. Lunny nicked me shades. I felt naked.'

MENTALLICA HEADING FOR THE NORTH EAST
Saturday April 19th sees the first visit not only to Darlington but also to the North East, of Mentallica, a Metallica tribute band from the midlands who have been going 10 years. Gary, a regular of the Grand at Bishop Auckland is going to be coming along with some of the other regulars and told Val: 'With Damage Inc now split up leaving a bit of a gap, me and some regulars from the Grand will be there in April, and it would be nice to get them a good turnout. Saw them at Derby Rock & Blues last year and they were excellent. They have a site if you search on mentallica.' Tickets are £6.00 for the gig and can be bought in advance from the venue; Forum, Borough Road, Darlington.

Daz been caught napping again re. publicity for this Friday's Office gig. Naughty boy. Riffs will try and help by mentioning that, as the Office has now cancelled all its Saturday night gigs, Whey Aye C/DC are going to fit in two nights of Rock mayhem in just one evening. As Riffs has seen this band on two occasions now, we can reliably report that they really do rock and that a good night is certainly on the cards. 'Let There Be.....well, y'know...'
 
 
 
 
 

ROCK NIGHT in aid of CANCER RESEARCH UK FEATURING STATUS QUO TRIBUTE BAND ON THE LEVEL
SPARTAN
ARSENAL OF FREEDOM
at the  DEMI CLUB CONSETT
5TH APRIL TICKETS £5
01207 590662 OR 01207 231998/281201
www.cancerresearchstanley.co.uk

Tickets on sale NOW from all venues and from www.ticketweb.co.uk and www.seetickets.com for the Blitzkrieggigs, all now showing on our Listings page.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Ezra Robinson, who once toured with David Coverdale, is the last piece in the musical jigsaw for the Soul Rebels which consists of an eight-strong brass line up of two sax players and a female trumpet player, Nicky (as singer Keith told Riffs: 'yes, a girl who knows how to blow'). The Soul Rebels kick off at Scarborough on March 15. The band can be contacted on 01723 862408 soulrebels@myguide.net

DIABLO have their third studio venture released next month! This time it is singer DAVY PECKETT's long awaited solo album of another ten of his original compositions entitled "Quietly In The Background". Davy plays 90% of the instruments as well as all vocals. There are added guest backing vocals by good friends of ours Samantha Hutchinson from Allendale and Borderland's Mark Harrison. Additional musicians include (of course) Steve, Paul and Dave from DIABLO, plus Les Smith from Borderland on keyboards. Like DIABLO's "A Violet Scent Of Rose", Davy's album was recorded here in Newcastle at Base HQ Studios and was engineered by Rich McCoull. The album, which will be available at all DIABLO gigs, will be available mid March and a CD launch date will be announced shortly. If anyone would like to reserve an copy just let me know on
dave2109@btinternet.com