WELCOME TO ALEX'S PIE STAND
WELCOME TO ALEX'S PIE STAND
UPDATED February, 2012
The Snackerie or "Alex's pie stand" as it was more widely known, was a popular spot in central Birmingham during the 1960s for members of local bands to get a hot meal after a late night engagement.
It was there where many group members met up and exchanged stories and ideas; discussing future plans and catching up on the latest music news. As well as hot cups of tea, hamburgers and hot dogs, the place served the famous Fleur de Lys steak & kidney or chicken & mushroom hot meat pies which many Brummies will remember.
In memory of Alex's Pie Stand I will be posting on this page the latest Brum Beat related news and stories. Also mentioned here are the latest updates to www.brumbeat.net. If you have any Brum Beat related information that you would like to share, please send to: john@brumbeat.net
Nigel Busby wrote...
My father in law tells the tale that him and his pals used to go to Alex's on their motorbikes or combo's after they had been dancing at one of the many dance halls in the city. Apparently the owner knew someone who worked at Fleur de lys pies and had an arrangement for getting the pies direct from the factory each week. People used to go to various different dance halls and sometimes miss each other but they knew that they would meet up at Alex's at 12:00 for a pie.
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THE MOVE - 'Live at The Fillmore' tapes from 1969
RECORD REVIEW NOW AVAILABLE HERE
Exciting news for fans of this legendary Brum group is the long-awaited release of their live concert performance recorded in 1969 at the famous Fillmore West in San Francisco, California. This is significant as the only 'complete' recording of a Move concert known to exist!
While the group's 'Live at The Marquee' performance is familiar to fans, technical problems with the initial recording resulted in vocal overdubs before its release on the rare 'Something Else From The Move' EP in 1968. Various BBC recordings managed to capture some of the Move's 'live' energy (albeit in a controlled studio environment), but no complete fully 'live' performance of this group known for their explosive energy on stage has been available until now. A couple of the tracks recorded live at The Fillmore; 'I Can Hear The Grass Grow' and 'Open My Eyes' were included on the fantastic 'Move Anthology' Box Set in 2008.
Recorded during the Move's hectic (and only) tour of the USA in October of 1969, the group at that time consisted of Carl Wayne, Roy Wood, Bev Bevan and Rick Price. The existence of the 'Fillmore tapes' was only confirmed about a decade ago by former Move front-man Carl Wayne who intended to release the recording but tragically passed away before the remastering could begin. Carl's widow Sue has given her permission for the release of this historic recording that will serve as a fitting tribute to both Carl and the band. The following is from the official press release:
"Over 100 minutes of previously unreleased Move live magic recorded at San Francisco's Fillmore West."
LIVE AT THE FILLMORE 1969 - Right Recordings RIGHT116. iTunes & Online released worldwide 19th December 2011 with a two CD set released worldwide on 13th February 2012.
SPECIAL OFFERS & NEWS FOR MOVE FANS! Pre-order special offer - signed CDs by Bev Bevan, exclusive limited edition t-shirt plus Move collectors edition postcard available direct from the Right Recordings website www.rightrecordings.com/products/162-the-move.aspx (Move fans enter promo code Move1969 at checkout stage for free postage worldwide).
Click HERE to see a detailed review of 'The Move Live at The Fillmore 1969' exclusive to the BrumBeat web site or see the BRUM BEAT REVIEWS page. For more information about this release, visit the Face The Music web site at: www.ftmusic.com or see the official website of The Move at: www.themoveonline.com
Gerry Levene - Remembered
It is with deep regret that I post this sad news of legendary Birmingham vocalist and performer Gerry Levene who passed away in December of 2011. Gerry was one of the founding figures of the early 'Brum Beat' scene and enjoyed a high profile during the 1960s with his group The Avengers.
Born and raised in Birmingham, Micky Gibbs (Gerry) attended Upper Thomas Street School in Aston where he excelled in sports such as football and boxing. He seriously considered boxing as a career before choosing rock 'n' roll music to which his natural talent as an entertainer was well suited. Gerry's first band developed into 'The Avengers' during the early 1960s with the line-up of John Watson (guitar), Mike 'Sprike' Hopkins (lead guitar), Jim Onslow (bass guitar), and Graeme Edge (drums). 'Gerry Levene and The Avengers' found themselves incredibly busy with bookings all over the West Midlands as well as on the 'Liverpool Circuit' where they also performed at the famous 'Cavern Club'.
John Watson left The Avengers to be replaced by a very young Roy Wood on guitar from a local group called 'The Falcons'. In 1964, Gerry Levene and The Avengers signed to Decca Records to record a single. For the A-side track titled It's Driving Me Wild, Gerry was backed by studio session players. The Avengers were allowed to play on the B-side of the single with Gerry, covering U.S. bluesman Willie Lee Perryman's Dr. Feelgood. This historic recording is the first ever record release to feature Graeme Edge and Roy Wood - future members of The Moody Blues and The Move respectively. Sadly, the record didn't chart.
Although 'Gerry Levene and The Avengers' continued to gain fame and fans on shows like 'Thank Your Lucky Stars', Roy Wood left to join Mike Sheridan and The Nightriders while Jim Onslow went on to join The Diplomats. Gerry and Graeme Edge teamed up with Denny Laine to start a new project that became The Moody Blues although Gerry left early on after falling out with Denny. Gerry kept busy for the next few years performing with various new line-ups of The Avengers before taking a job with the Top Rank organization.
Gerry Levene continued to make records during the later 1960s with local groups 'Crossbones' and 'The Hinge'. He also recorded as a solo artist under the name 'David Lincoln' for the Pye Records label. An excellent single by David Lincoln; Hold Back The Daybreak/That's All Any Man Can Say (composed by prolific hit-makers Tony Macaulay and John Macleod) came out in 1970 and probably would have charted if Pye had spent more time and money on promotion.
Despite a lack of record success, Gerry Levene remained in the music business and continued to perform throughout the 1970s and the following decades, both in tribute bands and as a solo act. Gerry never lost his love for performing music and entertaining on the stage. He battled bowel cancer for years, eventually arranging and performing in fund-raising concerts along with other veteran Brumbeat performers in efforts to raise money for medical research of this often fatal affliction. Though sadly, Gerry's battle finally ended in December, his fighting spirit will be remembered as an inspiration to all who knew him. He will be missed.
You can visit Gerry's web site at: www.gerrylevene.co.uk
Roger Hill - a tribute
The BrumBeat community lost a major player recently with the sad passing of talented guitarist Roger Hill. A veteran of the West Midlands music scene, Roger will be remembered by many as one of the un-sung heroes who played alongside some well-known names.
Roger Hill started playing guitar in the early 1960s, becoming a member of the Birmingham group The Plazents who caught the first wave of the 'beat boom' when they were signed to Decca Records in 1964 and re-named 'The Brumbeats'. Fronted by dynamic vocalist Bobby Ash, The Brumbeats had a single released titled I Don't Understand as well as recording an album of Beatles songs under the name 'The Mersey Boys'. In 1966, Roger joined well-known vocalist Steve Gibbons in The Uglys line-up along with Dave Pegg (future bassist of Fairport Convention/Jethro Tull). Dave credits Roger as his main influence in deciding to switch over to the bass guitar after realizing he would never be as good a player as Roger!
By the early part of 1967, Roger Hill had left The Uglys and along with Dave Pegg, linked up with his former band-mate from The Brumbeats drummer Alan 'Bugsy' Eastwood to form the pop/rock group The Exception. While the Exception were well-known locally, toured Europe, and recorded an album along with several innovative singles for the President Records label, they were unable to attain the level of success worthy of the collective talents within the band.
In 1970, Roger Hill was hired by former Move front-man Carl Wayne to join his new backing-band. This line-up became known as Mongrel but instead of backing Carl Wayne, most of the band was snapped up by Roy Wood to form the basis of his new group 'Wizzard'. Roger Hill meanwhile, went on to join Dave Pegg for a stint in the acclaimed folk/rock group Fairport Convention before deciding eventually on a career as jazz guitarist to which his talent was well-suited. Roger was to play for years with jazz greats Chris Barber and Ottilie Patterson.
In more recent times, Roger Hill stayed closer to Birmingham, performing locally with his own 'Roger Hill Band' as well as playing in a line-up called 'The Old Horns' featuring former Wizzard members. Roger always commanded the highest respect from his fellow musicians, preferring to let his demonstrated playing skills on the guitar do the talking. Roger Hill was 66 years old when he passed away in November 2011.
Further tributes to Roger Hill can be seen at www.bullsheadbob.blogspot.com and www.rock-legacy.com
An evening with The Moody Blues
I recently had the great pleasure to experience for the first time, Birmingham's legendary Moody Blues perform live on-stage at a concert in Toronto Canada. Not knowing what to expect, I went with an open mind and was not dissapointed. After more than 40 years of recording multi-million selling albums and performing countless shows on world tours, the three original members proved they can still rock!
Miserable wet weather at the semi-enclosed arena location failed to dampen the spirits of the audience as the band opened the show with a rousing performance of 'The Voice', a stand-out track from their 1979 'come-back' album 'Long Distance Voyager'. From that point on I was hooked so sat back to enjoy the show which turned out to be refreshingly more than just a parade of greatest hits. The 2011 live line-up in addition to original members Justin Hayward, John Lodge, and Graeme Edge, also included 2nd drummer Gordon Marshall, Alan Hewitt (keyboards), Norda Mullen (flute/acoustic guitar), and Julie Ragins (keyboards).
Despite including newer material (including Your Wildest Dreams - a personal fave of mine), the band did not stray far from their 'classic' 1960s-70s period as they went on to perform Justin Hayward's Tuesday Afternoon (from 'Days of Future Passed'), and 1968's Voices In The Sky as well as John Lodge's Steppin' In A Slide Zone and Isn't Life Strange. As expected, the lead vocal duties were split between Justin Hayward and John Lodge (depending on whose song it was) with the girls predictably supplying most of the high harmonies. A notable exception was Graeme Edge who took the lead on a surprising rendition of 1969's Higher And Higher.
It was great to hear Justin Hayward's famous vocal, pitch-perfect after all those years and no sign of letting up. Still playing his trade-mark red Gibson 335 guitar (with Bigsby tremolo), both he and bassist John Lodge were obviously having a great time on stage, even to the point of performing legs-apart, side-by-side guitar, 'Status Quo-like' moves in unison. Founding member Graeme Edge was obviously enjoying himself too. At one point in the show, he stepped from behind his drums to front of stage and announced he'd recently turned 70 years old. The audience then roared with applause at which point Graeme proceeded to dance an energetic jig across the stage to yet more applause and approval!
Stage antics aside, it was really the great music that mattered and of that there was no shortage. As well as the 'hits', there were surprises too. A spirited performance of 'Peak Hour', a lesser known track from 1967's ground-breaking 'Days Of Future Passed' album provided the opportunity for a genuine 1960s extended guitar solo from Justin Hayward along with all the psychedelic lighting and sound effects to go with it. In the same way, their hushed performance of 'Are You Sitting Comfortably' (from 1969's 'On The Threshold Of A Dream') was enough to transport anyone old or young back in time to that hallowed decade.
Throughout the show, along with the expected spectacular lighting effects, some songs featured vintage photos of the Moody Blues 'classic' line-up from the 1960s and 70s projected onto a giant screen behind them as they played. This brought it home all the more to realize just how long the three original members have continued to entertain and obviously still enjoy what they are doing. Encores included Ride My See-Saw, The Question, and of course the classic Nights In White Satin.
With the Moody Blues' 50th anniversary just a few years away, would it not be fitting for them to celebrate the event by performing a couple of very special shows at say, The Royal Albert Hall that would also include a reunion with former band-mates Ray Thomas and Mike Pinder? And if that should happen, how about a 'special guest' appearance by Denny Laine invited up on stage with them to sing a rousing rendition of Go Now? If any of you guys read this - well it's just a thought...
JRW.
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Danny Burns and The Phantoms
Many Brummies may remember 'Danny Burns and The Phantoms' who were a popular and hard-working local group during the early 1960's. They also spent some considerable time performing over in Germany.
Danny Burns was the stage name for Pete Worral who was the former lead singer with a band from Erdington called 'The Rollercoasters'. Guitarists Alan Oldaker and Tom Williams were the founding members of The Phantoms with the line-up being completed by the addition of drummer Eric Foxall and bass guitarist Larry Sheil.
Many thanks go to Alan Oldaker and Eric Foxall who have both provided their own story about the group that can now be seen exclusively on the BrumBeat web site. Click HERE to read more about Danny Burns and The Phantoms or see them listed in the Brumbeat MAIN INDEX.
The Californians
The Californians, like The Montanas, were one of the best known Wolverhampton recording groups during the 1960s. They were very much influenced by American harmony groups such as The Beach Boys, The Four Seasons, and The Association. The Californians went through a number of line-up changes but still managed to preserve their distinctive sound.
In addition to becoming very well known locally, The Californians had several records released on the Decca and RCA labels. These recordings certainly highlighted the groups talent for vocal harmonies but interestingly, a few such as 'Golden Apples' and 'The Cooks Of Cakes And Kindness' are now regarded highly by collectors who have a special interest in vintage British 'psychedelia'. The Californians were chosen to support Jimi Hendrix, Cat Stevens, Engelbert Humperdink, and The Walker Brothers on a major 'package tour' of the U.K. in 1967!
Robbie Trevis who was drummer/vocalist in The Californians has supplied information and great memories of the group as they were back in the late 1960s. Click HERE or see them listed in the Brumbeat MAIN INDEX.
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BrumBeat PIRATES!!
I would like to thank everyone who has supported and contributed to the BrumBeat web site during its first decade on-line. You all know who you are and you should be justifiably proud of what you have helped to create. Without you, this web site would not exist today. Unfortunately, to my dismay, I have found material taken from the BrumBeat web site - without permission - and pasted onto other web sites!
The material taken from the BrumBeat web site includes copyrighted text and photos - most of which originated from various contributor's private collections who had entrusted them to me for viewing exclusively on BrumBeat. There is one major web site that has displayed content from BrumBeat since late last year - after permission to do so was denied! The web masters of the offending site proceeded to copy and paste dozens of bios from BrumBeat under direction of a certain individual who has claimed to represent the BrumBeat web site. This individual did not have the right to approve such action and does not represent the BrumBeat web site in any way.
This is very disturbing to me as I had thought the offending web site to be a respectable one and may even be publicly funded! The BrumBeat web site has never received funding and while there is some income generated from Google Ads, this is not enough to pay for web hosting or domain. I have to pay the balance from my own resources which I don't begrudge as maintaining this site is still a rewarding experience for me. To be contacted and supplied with information, stories, and photos from so many interested people is the real reward. What started ten years ago as an enjoyable hobby has become a passion that I would like to continue for years to come.
I have on occasion, granted permission for a band bio or parts thereof to be shown on other legitimate web sites for non-profit purposes. I have spent countless hours of my own spare time writing band bios and features which I don't mind sharing with visitors to the BrumBeat web site. You can probably understand then if you were in my position, how it would feel to have your own work taken and used elsewhere without your authorization.
Some time ago, I requested the web master of the major offending website to remove the band bios taken from BrumBeat but at this time, they have not done so. Therefore, if action is still not taken, I will be posting the name of that web site onto Alex's Pie Stand in the next update. Keep checking this page!
Why do records made in the 1960s sound so good?... ask Bulls Head Bob!
If you've followed the exploits of Bulls Head Bob over the last few years, you will doubtless be addicted by now to his monthly blog. This BrumBeat insider covers everything related to BrumBeat from the point of view of someone who was not only there when it was all happening, but was also an active participant in a number of significant local bands during the 1960s.
Bulls Head Bob leaves no stone un-turned in his quest to cut through the myths and legends of the BrumBeat era. He gives credit where credit is due to those both well-known and unknown. Gritty and controversial he may be, but he gets right down to the cold, hard, TRUTH and that's no bull!
The latest blog by Bulls Head Bob examines The Spencer Davis Group as a fine example of what made bands sound so good back in those days. Be sure to check this one out if you haven't already done so. Bob has also contributed great stories and features to the BrumBeat web site including the popular SIX OF THE BEST series as well as the recent Moody Blues - Go Now story by producer Alex Wharton, and the story of the historic Shakin' All Over by Johnny Kidd and The Pirates' Brian Gregg.
Unfortunately, the true identity of Bulls Head Bob must remain a secret at this time - although for a pint or two of Ansells Mild he may be persuaded to reveal a few clues says his mate 'Nobber' down at the pub. The latest Bulls Head Bob blog can be seen at: www.bullsheadbob.blogspot.com
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The Conchords
This seven-piece 1960s Birmingham-based band had Tom Jones as their lead vocalist! Yes it's true, though the Tom Jones in question was not the internationally famous singing star known to reside in Las Vegas. Tom Jones of 'The Conchords' was born and raised in Erdington.
Tom Jones 'saw the light' when back in 1962 he witnessed a second on the bill act from Liverpool perform their yet to be released first single called 'Love Me Do' at the BRS Club on Bromford Lane. Tom thus became one of the first of many inspired by The Beatles to take up a career in rock 'n' roll.
The Conchords were very active during their time together - even managing to reach number eleven on the first Midland Beat magazine reader's poll (a position they jointly shared with The Redcaps). Tom Jones has written his own story of The Conchords that can now be seen on the BrumBeat web site. Click HERE or see them listed in the Brumbeat MAIN INDEX.
Galliard
BrumBeat goes 'progressive' with this latest featured group. The second half of the 1960s saw much diversity within the West Midlands music scene following the end of the beat groups along with emerging new styles inspired by the psychedelic era.
Galliard were the result of a fusion of styles that came together when the band was formed in 1968. Initially called 'Immediate Pleasure', Galliard drew from soul, jazz, and psychedelic influences while featuring a brass section that gave them a distinctive sound. As the group developed further, 'eclectic' became the norm with one reviewer describing them as: "like Blood Sweat & Tears meets The Soft Machine!"
Geoff Brown who was lead vocalist/guitarist in Galliard has written the definitive story of the group that can now be seen here and exclusive to the Brumbeat web site. Geoff had already provided me with loads of info about his other Birmingham bands The Castaways, The King Bees and Craig. Click HERE to read the Galliard story or see them listed in the Brumbeat MAIN INDEX.
Craig "I Must Be Mad"
The second of a two-part feature for the BrumBeat web site is the story of the Birmingham band 'Craig' who were formerly known as The King Bees. This mod-styled group recorded an original song called 'I Must Be Mad' which is now regarded by many as one of the earliest and best British psychedelic/rock tracks of the 1960s.
Craig are also significant in rock music history as one of the first bands to feature drummer Carl Palmer who went on to fame and fortune in the progressive rock group 'Emerson Lake & Palmer'.
I am grateful to Castaways, King Bees & Craig founding member Geoff Brown who was lead vocalist/guitarist of Craig as well as composer of the I Must Be Mad Craig single. Without Geoff's input and assistance (and patience with me!), the story of these three significant Brum groups as presented here would not have been possible. To see (The) Craig story told for the first time and exclusive to the BrumBeat web site click HERE or see the group listed in the Brumbeat MAIN INDEX.
The King Bees - featuring CARL PALMER
Some of the most famous drummers in rock music got their start in West Midlands bands during the 1960s; John Bonham, Cozy Powell, Jim Capaldi, Bill Ward, Bev Bevan, Don Powell, just to name a few. Even Pink Floyd's Nick Mason was born in Birmingham!
Carl Palmer was also born in Birmingham and is best known for playing drums in the progressive rock group 'Emerson Lake & Palmer' who had huge international success during the 1970s. Carl's first group 'The King Bees' evolved from an earlier band called 'The Castaways' who formed in Harborne, Birmingham during the early 1960s. The King Bees became one of the leading (and youngest) R&B styled groups in Birmingham along with another local band called The Spencer Davis Group.
Geoff Brown who was founding member and lead vocalist/guitarist with both The Castaways and The King Bees has provided much information about them. Geoff's assistance has made it possible for me to present the stories of both The Castaways and The King Bees for the first time and exclusive to the BrumBeat web site.
You can read more about The Castaways and The King Bees, by clicking on the names or see them listed in the Brum Beat MAIN INDEX.
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Terry Beale - "SHE'S A MOD"
It is with regret that I post sad news received from Bill Ford concerning Terry Beale who passed away in March 2011 from an undisclosed illness. Terry was lead singer with 1960s Brum group The Senators who are significant in rock music history as the first band to have a record released featuring 16 year old drummer John Bonham who later went on to world-wide fame with Led Zeppelin.
The Senator's recording of 'She's A Mod' came out in 1964, being released as a single in the U.K. It was also included on DIAL Record's 'BRUM BEAT' LP which along with The Senators, showcased various other West Midlands groups. Terry Beale wrote the song that was later covered by other bands including notably 'Ray Columbus and The Invaders' from New Zealand. She's A Mod topped the charts in both Australia and New Zealand thus making Ray Columbus and The Invaders big stars in that part of the world. Bill Ford who was bass guitarist with The Senators and a friend of Terry's shared some memories of him as follows:
"Terry was a great person to be in a band with. He was helpful to me in showing me chords to be used or sometimes complete bass parts as he was a multi-instrumentalist. His joining The Senators elevated us from just performing the top ten hits etc. to presenting our own compositions. As the biography tells, we recorded 'She's A Mod' in 1964 when John Bonham, Terry's pal from 'The Blue Star Trio' and 'Terry Webb and The Spiders' had joined the band". I don't think people know how big and important 'She's A Mod' was to the southern hemisphere back in the 60's and still is now.
Ray Columbus (Lester Timmins) wrote a long tribute to Terry, part of which is shown here as follows:
"I only talked to him on the phone a couples of times. For years he was only the songwriter who wrote New Zealand's first international #1 record 'She's A Mod'. A lot of people thought I was the songwriter but I never said it myself. His Aussie publisher who also published The Beatles' catalogue 'down under', gave me an acetate of the song because I was getting famous for creating my own dance while singing onstage. The rest is history. Six tours of Australia and New Zealand with everyone almost... Roy Orbison, The Searchers, Del Shannon, The Rolling Stones, Herman's Hermits, Tom Jones, Peter And Gordon - and many more. And all because we made #1 with Terry's song. I will never forget you and what you did for me. Rest In Peace Terry Beale - songwriter, musician, singer and... Thank you. Ray Columbus OBE, CM.
Terry Beale was 67 when he passed away at his home in Solihull. Bill Ford will attend Terry's funeral to take place at his home town of Reddich. Thank you Bill for sending these tributes for Terry and his photo. I would also like to express my condolence for Terry's family and friends during this difficult time (JRW).
THE TALISMEN are back in style!
A terrific recent CD release is a collection by Cheltenham beat group The Talismen who topped the first Midland Beat readers poll back in 1964. This new compilation disc is full of the group's original 1960s recordings including the highly sought-after Masters Of War/Casting My Spell single that has Led Zeppelin's Jimmy Page as session guitarist.
Original recordings by The Talismen have been difficult to find in the UK. The group had more records released in Italy where they became big stars during the 1960s and as the backing group for teenage Italian singer Rita Pavone. This limited edition CD released by the Talismen Fan Club contains 20 tracks, three of which feature Rita Pavone. Also included are some never-before released recordings by the group from recently discovered tapes. It's all attractively packaged too within a jewel case containing a fold-out with liner notes by Chris Stanbury.
The previously mentioned 'Masters Of War' is an early cover of the famous Bob Dylan anti-war song, now just as relevant today as it was back in 1964. The standout track for me is 'Casting My Spell', a wonderful high-energy beat-style recording with a great vocal and prominent lead guitar from Jimmy Page. These two rare Shel Talmy produced/Glyn Johns engineered tracks alone are worth the price of the CD in my opinion. An interesting alternate version of Casting My Spell also appears later on the CD.
Some standards of the day are also covered in this collection such as 'Doctor Feelgood', 'Monkey Time' and 'Spanish Harlem', on which The Talismen provide a great performance. There are some surprises too like an arrangement of the Spencer Davis Group's 'Strong Love', plus a version of The Who classic 'Can't Explain' which they maybe should not have attempted. Some of the tracks with Rita Pavone such as 'Treno' feature a lead vocal sung in Italian.
Surprisingly, the audio quality of almost all the Talismen recordings on this CD is of very good quality although it's obvious that some of the sources used were better than others. One thing that you will be aware of when hearing these records is the very high-energy that was captured to give most of the tracks a refreshing almost 'live' feel. Performances by the group back in those days must surely have got the audience up on their feet as it's difficult even more than 40 years later to keep from tapping your feet! Fans and collectors of 1960s British groups of that era will not be disappointed with this CD.
On a sad note, The Talismen's drummer Trevor Cook passed away recently following a battle with lung cancer. The group had enjoyed a revival of sorts during the last few years with a successful re-union of the original band members and gaining an increasing number of bookings for their live shows. The tremendous drumming performances on the tracks of this CD stands as a tribute to Trevor who will be greatly missed and whose loss will leave the future of The Talismen in some doubt.
To see more about The Talismen and their Back in Style CD including details on how to order a copy, visit the official Talismen web site at: www.thetalismen.co.uk
In terms of significance, the Band of Joy are highly rated in West Midlands rock music history. Many fans of Led Zeppelin will know that both Robert Plant and John 'Bonzo' Bonham were part of the Band of Joy line-up but amazingly, very little is known or has been written about this legendary group until now.
Just published in 2010 is the book 'The Band of Joy' by Harry Barber. This is the first book I know of to be dedicated to a group that has over the years achieved a status of near mythical proportions. It's a story that would have been difficult to write by any one of the former band members - especially when you consider the number of different line-ups that existed. Fortunately, Harry Barber is more than qualified to write such a book as he was involved as roadie with the group in almost all its different incarnations.
Harry Barber (who was also drummer for 1960s Brum group Paint), spent five years researching and writing The Band of Joy story - drawing from his own gig diary, collection of press cuttings, and a remarkable memory of his time on the road with the band. Each of the different line-ups is fully documented - no easy task as he says there were six distinct versions of the band during the 1960s "...and at one time, two versions with the same name at the same time"!
Harry Barber's Band of Joy is well recommended to fans of Led Zeppelin and of course anyone else who is interested in the West Midlands music scene of the 1960s. Copies of the book are available on eBay or go to Harry Barber's Band of Joy web site at: http://bandofjoy.com. To read a full review of The Band of Joy book, click HERE or see the Brum Beat REVIEWS page.
DAVE MASON - rare record
If you are a fan of Dave Mason, you may be interested in this very rare 45 rpm single from 1963. Dave Mason, who along with Steve Winwood, Jim Capaldi, and Chris Wood, formed the legendary Brum group Traffic who had world-wide success in the 1960s & 70s.
Dave Mason later had a successful solo career of his own but few fans may be aware that his first recording was with a young Worcester band called The Jaguars before he joined forces with Jim Capaldi in The Hellions. The Jaguars recorded an original song written by Dave. It was a catchy instrumental number titled 'Opus To Spring' and sounded very much in the same vein as 'The Shadows'. Dave's guitar virtuosity on the recording is evident even back then. The single's B-side 'The Beat' was co-composed by Dave with the group's drummer Roger Moss.
The Jaguars did not have a recording contract, but paid for the recording themselves and had singles pressed on the Worcester-based 'Impression' label. The group then sold the records to fans at their gigs. It was an unusual method of promotion for a band back in those days but is common practice for un-signed groups today. As can be imagined, original copies of The Jaguars 45 are now highly prized by record collectors and examples in un-played or 'mint' condition are rarer still.
Terry Thomas has owned and operated 'Mister Tees Records' shop - based in Kidderminster for more than 30 years. He recently acquired some original copies of The Jaguars Opus To Spring 45. Terry says: "Not a large quantity, just a few from the widow of the record shop owner who issued it in the early sixties. They are nearly 50 years old and in their original box unplayed". If you are interested in purchasing one of these rare singles, Terry can be contacted by phoning 01562 515291 days, or by e-mail terry@mrteerecords.co.uk.
Probably the first great British rock song ever written, Shakin' All Over is one of the most covered songs of the 1960s by groups all over the world. Though not originating from a BrumBeat group, the song's influence to many aspiring guitarists was profound thus making the story behind it more than worthy of including on this web site.
In the event, a veritable legion of Brum bands had "Shakin' All Over" included in their sets. Previous to this, only songs by American bands and artistes were considered worthy of covering by most of the rapidly emerging rock 'n' roll and beat groups forming all over the U.K. in the early 1960s.
I don't know how he did it but BrumBeat insider Bulls Head Bob managed to recently interview Brian Gregg - former member of Johnny Kidd and The Pirates and co-writer of Shakin' All Over. Brian's story of the writing and recording of Shakin' All Over is an inspirational one. In fact the song almost never happened at all but for the talent and tenacity of the group members and a few contributions by 'the hand of fate' along the way as you will see.
To read Brian Gregg's exclusive story of Shakin' All Over as told to Bulls Head Bob 'In The Snug', click HERE or see it listed on the Brumbeat FEATURES page.
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KEITH FARLEY Book - They Rocked, We Rolled!
Sad news in early 2010 concerned the loss of author Keith Farley whose contribution to the documentation of West Midlands music history has been considerable. Keith's last book entitled 'They Rocked, We Rolled!' was published recently and is described as "A personal and oral account of Rock 'n' Roll in and around Wolverhampton and the West Midlands 1956-1959".
Keith Farley had previously written the book 'N Between Times that was first published in 2001 (see BRUM BEAT REVIEWS 'N Between Times). As far as I know, 'N Between Times was the first book ever to document Wolverhampton's 1960's music scene. 'They Rocked, We Rolled!' was completed by Keith just before his death in March 2010. Keith was well known locally as a school teacher, historian and music fan who had a number of books published. He was also the first official chairman of the Wolverhampton History and Heritage Society. Dave Cant who was a long-time friend of Keith's, has provided a good description of They Rocked, We Rolled! as follows:
In this book, Keith has taken a more general view of the 50/60s 'experience' - the importance to us then of the right hairstyle, the clothes and the all important knowledge of the latest releases, as discussed in the school playground. Both Keith and I went from council estate primaries to the local Grammar school and many of our experiences there are recalled in the book (including enrolling the Headteacher in The Teen & Twenty Disc Club!). The book again allows the band members of the time to tell us what actually happened in their own words and provides a fascinating pattern of musicians moving from one band to another in search of fame and fortune!
Keith writes of his many visits to gigs at local venues, such as the Lafayette, the Park Hall, the Ship & Rainbow, further afield to Old Hill Plaza and Willenhall Baths and even ventures as far away as Birmingham (!) to see the early stars of rock and roll. This is brought nicely full circle through seeing what he describes as "three elderly gentlemen" - Chuck Berry, Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis - at the Wolverhampton Civic Hall in recent years! Having earlier written a book on Wolverhampton cinemas, 'At The Flicks', there is also a section on seeing the early rock and roll films like 'The Girl Can't Help It' and 'Rock Around The Clock' and teenage reaction to shows like 'Six Five Special' and 'Oh Boy'.
Copies of Keith Farley's They Rocked, We Rolled! are available from Dave Cant 07730965009 at 74 Bellencroft Gdns, Merry Hill, Wolverhampton WV3 8DU
Price: £12.99 (or £14.99 inc pp) Please make cheques payable to 'M Manley'
It's only Rock 'n' Roll - but they like it!
From the ashes of the award winning show Brum Rocks 'Live' flies the fiery phoenix that is "It's Only Rock 'n' Roll" - a brand new show that takes the concept of Brum Rocks and adding to it.
Featuring Bev Bevan, Trevor Burton, Raymond Froggatt, Hartley Cain, Geoff Turton and Danny King the cast is bigger and there's more content. Show producer Brian Yeates said; "We wanted to build on the success of Brum Rocks Live! and take that great cast into this new idea which will include some of the old songs but a lot of brand new songs that have been huge rock 'n' roll hits over the years. We also knew that a lot of theatres around the UK wanted the Brum Rocks show but were concerned having 'Birmingham' in the title might hinder the shows appeal (it should really enhance the appeal in my opinion! - JRW). So what we have now is a new name, bigger cast of stars, bigger show and a tour that takes in three times as many shows as Brum Rocks, so it is a winner for everyone".
"It was important that when we put the cast together we had people that loved rock 'n' roll, and that is exactly what we got, a cast that have been performing great music all over the world for nearly half a century. We gave them an opportunity to perform Chuck Berry, Elvis, Johnny Kidd, Roy Orbison, and Spencer Davis Group songs - and they all jumped at it. And when you see the enthusiasm and fun that is happening on stage, it just washes over an audience, it's a truly wonderful thing to experience".
Pictured are (left to right) Trevor Burton, Bev Bevan, Raymond Froggatt, Geoff Turton, and Danny King. Both Trevor Burton and Bev Bevan are founding members of influential Birmingham hit group The Move who went on to world-wide success in the 1970s as the Electric Light Orchestra (ELO). Raymond Froggatt - the legendary West Midlands singer/songwriter who along with guitarist Hartley Cain and Trevor Burton toured as the Raymond Froggatt Band. Geoff Turton is lead singer for The Rockin' Berries - one of the first Brum bands to have big hit records. Danny King is known as Birmingham's first 'pop star' and one of the founding fathers of the Brum music scene having fronted several significant local bands since the 1950s.
For tour dates and more information about "It's Only Rock 'n' Roll", go to the Brian Yeates Associates web site at www.brianyeates.co.uk
I'm happy to report that retired Moody Blues founding member Ray Thomas now has his own web site and it's well worth the visit!
Fans of The Moody Blues will be well aware of Ray Thomas' former role in the group as flute-player, vocalist, and composer of such group classics as The Morning, Legend Of A Mind, and Dear Diary. Ray left the group in 2003 due to health concerns.
In conjunction with the re-mastering and re-release of Ray's two 1970s solo albums, this new web site is packed with information and rare photos that illustrate all the stages of Ray's music career and up to the present day. Of particular interest to this reader are Ray's early bands from the pre-Brumbeat "skiffle" era; 'Saints and Sinners' from 1958 and 'El Riot and The Rebels' formed in 1959 (whose line-up also included future Moody Blues members Mike Pinder and John Lodge).
The web site for Ray Thomas can be accessed at www.raythomas.me
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The Montanas
One of the great BrumBeat mysteries of the 1960s is why The Montanas never had a big hit record in the U.K. This Wolverhampton-based group were very well known performers locally with a line-up to include some of the area's best musicians. The band even cracked the American charts so who knows what would have happened if their management had arranged for them to tour there.
After forming during the mid 1960s from members of top local groups, The Montanas secured an enviable recording contract with well-known producer Tony Hatch who had composed hit records for both The Searchers and Petula Clark. The Montanas cut a succession of high-quality, radio-friendly singles capitalizing on their strong vocal harmonies and instrumental ability. Despite this, national success eluded them although they built up a strong live following that proved the group to be more than just a studio creation.
The Montanas may now be gone but they are certainly not forgotten as you will see. Veteran BrumBeat musician and historian Brian Nicholls recently interviewed former Montanas member Jake Elcock and with his full co-operation has put together what is probably the first authorized biography of the group. I am grateful to Brian Nicholls and Jake Elcock for permission to show The Montanas story that can now be read exclusively on the Brumbeat web site!
To read Brian Nicholls' story of The Montanas click HERE or see them listed in the Brum Beat MAIN INDEX.
The Chads
This Birmingham group developed from an earlier band called The Sundowners who formed in the late 1950s. In 1964, The Sundowners became The Chads and changed their format to an American blues-based sound, thus joining some of the first local groups to play this style of music. The Chads will be forever immortalized in classic rock history as one of the earliest bands to feature future E.L.O. front-man Jeff Lynne.
Mick Adkins who was lead guitarist in The Chads, had preserved the history of the group on his own website in the 1990s - one of the first sites to be dedicated to a 1960s Brum group who were known only locally. Sadly, Mick passed away in June of 2007 from lung cancer caused by exposure to asbestos dust during his long career as an electrician.
Mick was very helpful to me during the early days of the BrumBeat.net web site in answering many questions I had about the 1960s Birmingham music scene. His e-mails to me were as funny as they were informative and he was a very down-to-earth character. It is only fitting then that The Chads and Sundowners biography on this web site is dedicated to the memory of Mick who I'm sure is missed by all who knew him.
To read the biography of The Chads, click HERE or see them listed in the Brum Beat MAIN INDEX.
To hear a short sound clip of Mick Adkins and The Chads, click HERE
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The Moody Blues - GO NOW
Possibly the most important Brum Beat record ever made, 'Go Now' was the first song recorded by a West Midlands group to gain international recognition and finally establish Birmingham on the world's pop music map. Although a couple of other local groups such as The Applejacks and Rockin' Berries had charted earlier, their success was confined mainly to the UK without impact on the all-important North American market.
While bands from other cities in the UK - Liverpool, London, Manchester and even lowly Newcastle - had spearheaded the famous 1960s "British Invasion", Britain's second city had to wait until an obscure local group known as The Moody Blues made it to the top spot with their version of a little-known R&B composition. Although The Moody Blues did not write the song, they made Go Now as much their own in the same way The Animals had done with House Of The Rising Sun.
The Moody Blues' classic version of Go Now is very well known but the story behind the making of that record is not. Brumbeat insider Bulls Head Bob recently interviewed former Moody Blues manager and record producer Alex Wharton who told Bob the story of that legendary recording session. This fascinating story exclusive to BrumBeat.net, can now be read by clicking the link HERE or see it listed on the Brumbeat FEATURES page.
Bulls Head Bob's blog can also be seen at www.bullsheadbob.blogspot.com
Deep Feeling - PRETTY COLOURS
One of the great "lost" groups to emerge from the West Midlands music scene of the 1960s, Deep Feeling have at last received recognition with the release of a CD to document and preserve their recorded legacy. Known as an exciting live act, Deep Feeling evolved from The Hellions beat group who formed in Worcester.
To fans of the legendary band Traffic, Deep Feeling will be remembered as the group that Jim Capaldi fronted before joining Steve Winwood, Dave Mason, and Chris Wood for their critically acclaimed journey to international stardom. While Deep Feeling could indeed have been considered as the "blueprint" for Traffic, their line-up of Jim Capaldi, Gordon Jackson, Luther Grosvenor (Spooky Tooth/Mott The Hoople), Dave Meredith, and Poli Palmer (Blossom Toes/Family) combined much individual musical talent in their own right.
For an exclusive in-depth review of Deep Feeling's Pretty Colours CD, see the BrumBeat REVIEWS page or click HERE. For additional information visit the Sunbeam Records web site at at: www.sunbeamrecords.com
Rock 'n' Roll at Smethwick Baths
What do The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Kinks, and The Who have in common? Well for one, they all performed at Smethwick Swimming Baths (Thimblemill Baths) during the 1960s along with loads of local bands such as Carl Wayne and The Vikings, The Brumbeats, The Uglys and many more. The baths were one of Birmingham's top venues for hosting events in the 1950s and 60s.
After more than 70 years in operation, the baths continue to be a valuable asset to the community. As one of the former top entertainment venues in the city, concerts, dances, and even boxing tournaments used to be held at the baths. For special events, the water from the main bath would be drained and a specially sprung maple dance floor would be assembled over the empty pool. Andy Moore who is the Duty Manager at Smethwick Swimming Centre (Smethwick Baths, Thimblemill baths) has been doing some research into the bath's colourful history.
Andy says the management at the baths are actively trying to keep the history of the centre alive. "Some things we have done so far are Backstage Tours of the baths for the public (you get to see the plant room, secret tunnel, and WWII air raid shelter), and ghost hunts (we are one of the most active locations in the country with 11 ghosts on site). There's also arranged tours of the baths for the local schools. The next step for us is to inform people of the great musical heritage that the baths has. From the tours that we have done so far, we have many stories from the public about the gigs they saw at the baths and this info needs recording with pictures to help bring it alive for the younger generation."
If you have any photos or posters/memorabilia of bands or artistes performing at Smethwick Baths, Andy Moore would love to hear from you. Please e-mail him at: andrew_moore@sandwell.gov.uk or phone 0121 429 1421.
Phil Myatt Remembered
It is with great regret that we announce the sad news about Brumbeat agent Phil Myatt who passed away on November 15, 2008. One of Birmingham's top promoters, Phil will be remembered as the driving force behind the legendary 'Mothers', formerly The Carlton Club, Erdington. Read Bulls Head Bob's dedication to Phil on the December blog page at: www.bullsheadbob.blogspot.com
Jimmy Powell - INTERVIEW
When Jimmy Powell's recording of 'Sugar Babe' was released in 1962, few would have realized the significance of it as the first pop music single by a Birmingham vocalist. This historic event began a flood of great records by Brum bands and performers that continues to this day. Now, more than 40 years later, Jimmy Powell talks about those early days and recalls some of the highlights of his amazing career in music.
Jimmy Powell is one of the great underrated vocalists to come out of Birmingham and one whose considerable popularity as a live performer was never reflected in the sales of his records. Well-known around the 1960s London blues scene as 'Jimmy Powell and The 5 Dimensions' his backing group at one time included a young and then-unknown Rod Stewart. I had the great privilege to recently interview Jimmy Powell and ask him questions about his music career and what he has been doing since those heady days of the 1960s.
To see the Jimmy Powell interview exclusive to BrumBeat.net, click HERE or see it listed on the BrumBeat FEATURES page.
Hearing the grass grow - THE MOVE REMASTERED
The year 2007 was an incredibly good one for fans of Birmingham's legendary group The Move. It was a year that marked the 40th anniversary of the band's first chart success in the 1960s with a handful of hit singles that placed them at the cutting edge of innovative pop music as that decade reached its creative peak. 2007 was also the year of the group's first official re-union with a series of well-received concerts in the U.K.
October of 2007 also saw the high-quality re-issue of The Move's original 1960s albums on CD as part of the definitive collection documenting their recorded legacy.
Following in the steps of the brilliant re-issue of their 'Message From The Country' album (EMI 0946 3 30342 28) in 2005, this definitive set comprising The Move's first two albums along with substantial bonus material (including all their 1960s singles) is by far the best collection ever assembled of this significant Brum group. In addition, their 1970 album 'Looking On' has also gotten the re-master treatment as of April of 2008. Though there have been some well-meaning attempts in the past to re-issue Move recordings on the Compact Disc format, the audio quality was generally disappointing and included some significant errors that have now been corrected.
To see a detailed review of the Move 40th Anniversary Remasters click HERE or go to the BrumBeat REVIEWS page.
The Breakthru ALBUM REVIEW
The Circle Records company has released an album of previously un-issued 1960s recordings by the West Midlands group Breakthru. Until now, the band's recorded legacy was known only by a rare single 45 release from 1968. The group was never happy with the single as it was not a good representation of what their sound was like at the time.
Breakthru were known for performing exciting music while providing their own psychedelic light show to further enhance a larger-than-life image on stage and create for their audience a truly memorable experience. The group were certainly used to playing in front of large audiences as they performed at a number of outdoor music festivals during the latter part of the 1960s. Breakthru were denied having an album of their own released despite all the members contributions of original songs - many of which were recorded by the group in various sessions between 1967 and 1970. Now - for the first time - you can hear these recordings in a wonderfully prepared package titled "Breakthru - Adventures Highway".
To see an in-depth review of Breakthru's 1960s recordings now released on Circle Records, click HERE for the Brum Beat "Reviews" page on this web site or visit the Circle Records web site at at: www.circlerecords.co.uk
Where did OZZY go to work?
Do you remember going to the wonderful old Birmingham Museum of Science & Industry located on Newhall Street in downtown Brum? I used to spend many fascinating hours there exploring the halls and exhibits - everything from working steam engines to motorbikes and loads of old industrial equipment and electronics (including musical instruments), much of it made in Birmingham - and it was FREE admission too!
A dedicated group has been formed to promote Birmingham's industrial heritage and hopefully make more of the old museum's fantastic collection available to the public. MADE IN BIRMINGHAM - Birmingham's Industrial History Website, provides information about the once-thriving factories and businesses of which most are only a memory today. If you can think of anything, it was probably made in Birmingham at one time or another and it's little surprise that products from Birmingham and the West Midlands found their way to all parts of the world. Many of the future Brum Beat stars also had day-jobs working in the local factories. Even Ozzy Osbourne used to work at a factory that made car parts!
The MADE IN BIRMINGHAM web site is operated by Jon Price and he would be happy to hear from anyone who would like to contribute information concerning Birmingham's industrial past. You can subscribe to the site's free newsletter and participate in discussions that may be of interest to you. There's also lots of links there to other related websites.
You can visit the MADE IN BIRMINGHAM website at: www.madeinbirmingham.org
Jim Onslow INTERVIEW
Brum Beat veteran performer Jim Onslow was recently interviewed by Roy Wood super-fan Martin Kinch. Jim was at the center of the Birmingham music scene during the 1960s when he played in bands that included future members of the Moody Blues and The Move - later to become The Electric Light Orchestra (E.L.O.)
One of Jim's earliest bands was Gerry Levene and The Avengers who were known throughout the West Midlands during the early 1960s. The band's drummer was Graeme Edge who helped to form The Moody Blues and with whom he remains to this day. Jim Onslow, along with Graeme Edge and the rest of The Avengers, recorded a rare single called "Doctor Feelgood" in 1964. This record is significant as the earliest known recording to be released that has Graeme Edge on drums and Roy Wood on guitar. Roy was part of the Avengers line-up for a few months before joining Mike Sheridan's Nightriders. Jim's connection to The Moody Blues and E.L.O. didn't end there as he later joined future Move/E.L.O. drummer Bev Bevan in The Diplomats as replacement for Denny Laine - also a founding member of The Moody Blues.
Martin Kinch (shown on the left in the photo) is likely the leading source of knowledge on the amazing Move/E.L.O./Wizzard founder Roy Wood. He operates the excellent "Cherry Blossom Clinic" website which is dedicated to Roy and many of the talented musicians he has worked with over the years. Jim Onslow (who is still an active performer today) also operates his own website at jimonslow.bizland.com but has not spoken much about his involvement in the early Brum music scene until now.
To read Martin Kinch's exclusive interview of Jim Onslow, click on the link http://martinkinch.members.beeb.net/jim.html or visit the Cherry Blossom Clinic web site at www.cherryblossomclinic.freeserve.co.uk
Mike Sheridan - keeps on rockin'
As one of the original founding fathers of the Brum Beat scene and with a career in music spanning 40-plus years, Mike Sheridan has seen it all. Still going strong today as one half of a performing duo alongside his wife Suzie, Mike Sheridan recently launched his very own web site that he hopes will help clear up much of the mis-information that has been written about him over the years.
"I was so fed up of reading all of the other (web sites), some of which were completely wrong, so I thought I'd put it right" says Mike. For those who don't know, Mike Sheridan fronted the legendary Brum band The Nightriders who along with Carl Wayne's Vikings and the Spencer Davis Group, were one of the top-rated performing bands in the West Midlands during the first half of the 1960s. The various respected guitarists in The Nightriders over the years included Roy Wood and Jeff Lynne - both to find fame in the hit groups The Move and Electric Light Orchestra (E.L.O.) respectively. Though not to reach the charts himself, Mike Sheridan was very much involved in the developing Birmingham music scene and has a long list of recordings to his credit. He even appeared on Top Of The Pops as a member of Roy Wood's chart-topping band Wizzard!
You can now visit Mike Sheridan's very informative web site at www.mikesheridan.org.uk "The Official Mike Sheridan Website" that details his career starting at his musical roots in Brum and up to the present day. Also included is latest information on where you can catch Mike on-stage still performing the great rock 'n' roll classics that inspired himself and so many others.
Note: Mike Sheridan's wife Suzi is also in business designing professional quality websites. To find out more, write to suzisheridan@btinternet.com
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