Introducing the Band - Suede

There was a Rock 'n' Roll treat in store for us all last night, but before setting off there was another as we sat and watched the local news channel. My next 'port of call' will be to visit the family Dampney at Parley Court, Christchurch which I am looking forward to with great delight.

Something of a surprise then when family member Zara appeared before us on the TV screen being interviewed

during a return visit to her first school near Bournemouth, Dorset. Zara is one half the Women's Olympic Beach Volleyball Team, and as I well know totally committed to the challenge that will soon be upon her. We all wish you and team mate Shauna Mullin the very best for a Golden Future! By 20:00 we had all mustered at the

 

Albert Road, Southsea a venue we are all most familiar with. Over the years we have seen many bands here including Wishbone Ash, Chicken Shack, Steve Hackett et al while our last visit together (some years ago now) was to witness the electrifying King Pleasure and the Biscuit Boys.

This was also the first time I have seen the family in its entirety for long enough including Paul, Tess, Jenny, Emma along with son and drummer Noel who tonight was to be the star of the show.

Within, the scene was set for a Battle of the Bands

while the girls waited in anxious anticipation for the gig to start and for me to get the drinks in. The latter could be a little late in arriving!

First up, the embryonic Escape the Race

with an adoring audience of Mum, Dad, Sisters and 'Uncle' Bagsy, are

Josh Britcher Lead Guitar,

composer, Guitar and Vocals Joe Miller,

 

on Bass Guitar Daniel Parham and the lad himself

Noel Lifton on drums.

Under the close scrutiny of the adjudicators

and audience, all of whom would had a vote, the band launched into a seven song set of original material all penned by 'front man' Joe

and careful balance from the Mixing Desk.

List of Saints were next up, but had much to follow,

while the Lifton's enjoyed a celebratory drink,

then joined by moi!

We left the 'boys in the band' to continue enjoying their evening

as the bands played on!

I arrived at Parley Court little more than an hour ago, and already slaving over a 'hot laptop, hoping for another adventure to unfold tomorrow either around the farm or elsewhere.