26/06/2025
WELCOME BACK THE RACONTEURS - FOLK MUSIC AT ITS VERY BEST
One of Tamworth’s most successful female vocalists, Tina McBain, has relaunched her highly regarded and respected folk and acoustic trio The Raconteurs.
Tamworth has a few high profile singers - Phil Bates, Julian Cope, Rebekah Ryan and Tina McBain. Her mother was a talented opera singer and as a small child Tina would sometimes sing a few songs at her mom’s local concerts but that was the extent of her musical experience. Then in the late eighties she wanted to give her father something nice when he decided to move to live in Spain. I suggest she made a tape of her singing so I booked a day in Expresso Bongo recording studio In Tamworth which was owned by former Dexy's Midnight Runners member Paul Spear. She did three songs Country Roads, Leaving On A Jet Plane and Easy Like A Sunday Morning.
I was employed at Tamworth Arts Centre at the time and we had a benefit concert planned for Oxfam. At that time I was managing a local band Present From Margate whose frontman a very talented singer songwriter and guitarist Jem McAuley. He also happened to be going out with Tina’s daughter. I asked him if he would accompany Tina doing the three songs she had done for her father’s tape at the concert. He agreed and that was her first ever concert. They enjoyed working together so much they formed a duo together called The Raconteurs.
Because of my connections I quickly got them some good shows all around the Midlands including support shows with Davy Arthur, Julie Felix, Show Of Hands, Fairport Convention, to name but a few. They recorded their first album Rachante which featured songs written by Jem McAuley. They got the support slot on former ELO Part 2 star Phil Bates' first ever solo tour.
By then they had recruited another talented local musician, Martin Kelly to join their ranks. But because of Jems commitments to his indie band (he had joined the highly regarded Yogots by that time) and The Raconteurs first incarnation came to an end.
She then asked Tamworth singer songwriter Barry Hunt if he would like to be in The Raconteurs and he agreed. They quickly became well known in folk clubs and pubs in and around the Midlands. They were now a trio, Nigel Bullock had now become the third member. They released an album called Pure And Simple which featured many of Barry Hunts own compositions and a few nice covers. The album sold really well all one thousand copies pressed which were sold mainly at gigs. They also were featured on two compilation albums Homebrew and Mantra both CDs featuring the Barry Hunt song “The Thought Of Losing You”.
Their reputation had grown and they were now getting booked to play concerts further afield and in arts centres, theatres and festivals. This continued until Barry Hunt decided he wanted to pursue his solo career, although he did agree to honour their booked commitments and at the first ever Bridgnorth Folk Festival she found Barry’s replacement the highly regarded Sutton Coldfield based musician Andy Bole. They continued to be booked at venues across the UK for several years. Notable support shows they played included support shows with Bob Geldof, Fairport Convention, Lindisfarne, Kate Rusby amongst others.
Tina then became a member of the highly respected touring band, The Eleanor Rigby Experience who specialised in the reworked songs of Lennon, McCartney and Harrison. The band featured some notable players in its various lineups including ELO Part 2 singer and guitarist Phil Bates, Jethro Tull's original drummer Clive Bunker, Fairport Convention multi instrumentalist Maartin Alcock, Soft Machine's Fred T Baker, Andy Bole and former New Bushberry Mountain Daredevils member Brian Bannister. They did three very successful theatre tours of the UK .They released one self-titled album and Tina released her own Silly Loves Songs album. Both sold well on the internet her career was now in full swing.
During this time Tina was paid a considerable amount of money by White Stripes star Jack White so he could use the name The Raconteurs (they agreed to share the right to the name in the UK and Europe and Jack would have solo rights in North American territories). Tina invited Tamworth musician ELO Part 2 member Phil Bates to be their guest at their Christmas concert at Tamworth Castle. The sold out show was fabulous all decorated with Christmas regalia the atmosphere was magical. This lit a fire in Phil Bates mind and he returned a year later and did his own concert at Tamworth Castle which was recorded and released. The album title was “A Little Light On An Electric Night “ with his ELO Part 2 colleagues Bev Bevan, Kelly Groucutt and Mik Kaminski. It sold well all over the world thanks to the internet and the worldwide ELO fan base.
By this time Phil and Tina were regularly doing duo shows together in between Phil’s working commitments with ELO Part 2. They held a regular Christmas show at Middleton Hall near Tamworth and fans would regularly travel from all parts of the UK to attend. They played as a duo far and wide. Then Phil came up with his Beatles, Blues and Blue Violin project and asked former ELO / ELO Part 2 violinist Mik Kaminski and former Eleanor Rigby Experience vocalist Tina McBain to join him in the band. They quickly became a very popular touring band and did three very successful UK theatre and arts centre tours. They played Liverpool's famous Cavern on several occasions . Tina recorded a track called “Sheldon“ written by Tamworth based singer songwriter Eamonn Galbraith for the Help The Heroes Charity. The name from the untitled song came about when they visited the National Arboretum when they gOt to the remembrance wall they decided whatever name was 15th on the wall that’s what they would call the song the name was Sheldon.
Tina was finding touring and all that goes with it had become tOo much for her with her arthritis and decided to call time on her singing career performance-wise. She continues to record with Jem McAuley who was the first person she played with but haven’t done so since lockdown. Jem is very busy working both at Tamworth Assembly Rooms and with Bob Geldof’s solo band and The Boomtown Rats as he his BG’s guitar technician ( a job we put him forward for ) touring all over the place in the UK and abroad.
Tina met up with Eamonn in August last year for a catch up and Eamonn asked her if she might like to do a few songs with him and she agreed so it was a welcome return to the stage for Tina McBain. Then on Friday 23rd August 2024, at the intimate Helping Hand Cafe in Tamworth, Tina & Eamonn played their first show together as a duo. At the end of the show she announced she would re reforming The Raconteurs. The line-up is Tina McBain vocals & Eamonn Galbraith. They say good news travels fast and soon the gig diary was bulging.
It’s just two years since Tina McBain reformed her band The Raconteurs but they are now one of the busiest folk duo’s on the Midlands folk circuit. Vocalist Tina McBain and outstanding singer songwriter Eamonn Galbraith are always looking for new venues to play. Their set consists mainly of original songs written by Eamonn Galbraith, but Tina also like to include some of her favourite cover songs and then gives them a unique folky twist.
RACONTEURS 2025 DATES
Sunday 29th June 2025 -The Fox, Dosthill, Tamworth
Wednesday 2nd July 2025 - Erdington Folk Club
Tuesday 1st July - Abbey Theatre Nuneaton TBC
Saturday 5th July - Helping Hands Cafe - 12 Noon
Monday 28th July - Upstairs Lounge, Helping Hand Cafe, Tamworth
Sunday 3rd August - Heather Folk Festival, Leicestershire
Monday 25th August - Helping Hands Folk Club, Tamworth based.
Friday 29th August - Tamworth Songwriters, Tamworth Tap
Friday 12th September - Bird In Hand, Stafford
Saturday 13th September - Gamecock Inn, Birchmoor.
Sunday 14th September - The Donkey Leicester
Saturday 20th September - Helping Hand Cafe Afternoon Show
Sunday 21st September - Fairfield Village Hall, Bromsgrove
Thursday 25th September - The Robin2 Bilston
Friday 26th September - Marrs Bar, Worcester
Saturday 27th September - Scared Heart Church, Tamworth
Saturday 11th October - Brimfield Village Hall, Brimfield, Herfordshire
Wednesday 15th October - Huntingdon Hall, Worcester
Thursday 16th October - Globe Theatre, Hay On Wye
Friday 17th October - St Peter’s Church, Huddersfield
Saturday 18th September - Elford Village Hall, Tamworth
Thursday 23rd October - Kitchen Garden Cafe, Birmingham
Thursday 30th October - St Mary’s Church, Twyford, Berkshire
Saturday 1st November - Helping Hand Cafe - 12 Noon
Saturday 22nd November - Edingale Village Hall, Near Tamworth
Friday 28th November - Owen Street Community Theatre, Atherstone
Saturday 6th December - Elford Village Hall, Tamworth
Saturday 20th December - Helping Hand Cafe, Tamworth Afternoon
RACONTEURS 2026 DATES
Saturday 17th January 2026 - Erdingale Village Hall, Near Tamworth
Sunday 18th January - Colton Village Hall, Rugeley
Friday 23rd January - Stonnall Village Hall, Walsall
Saturday 31st January - British Legion Club, Sutton Coldfield
Friday 6th February - Neither Whitacre Village Hall, Birmingham
Saturday 7th February - Standfields Pumping Station, Lichfield
Saturday 28th February - St Editha’s Church, Tamworth
Saturday 2nd May - Stoke Golding Village Hall, Nuneaton
Saturday 9th May - Linton Village Hall, Swadlincote
Friday 15th May - UB12 Urban Village Hall, Birmingham
Friday 15th May - Chadworth Village Hall Cheltenham
Friday 22nd May - Aston Cantlow Village Hall,Henley In Arden
Saturday 23rd May - Twycross Village Hall, Atherstone
Friday 29th May - Twyford Village Hall, Melton Mowbray
Saturday 30th May - Quinney Hall, Sutton Coldfield
Sunday 31st May - Brimfield Village Hall, Ludlow
Saturday 7th November -The Globe Theatre, Hay On Wye
Sunday 8th November - Abbey Theatre, Nuneaton
Friday 13th November - The Churchill Theatre Bromley
Saturday 14th November - Mackadown Club, Birmingham
Friday 20th November - Cromer Community Arts Centre, Cromer
Saturday 21st November - Metfield Village Hall And Community Bar
Friday 27th November - Westbury On Trim Village Hall
Saturday 28th November - Woolton Village Club, Liverpool
Friday 4th December - The Owen Street Arts Centre, Atherstone
Saturday 5th December - West Malvern Social Club
Sunday 6th December - Hexagon Theatre MAC, Birmingham
Saturday 12th December -The Village Pump, Trowbridge
Friday 18th December - The White Horse Inn, Duns Tew, Bicester
Saturday 19th December - Crawford Memorial Hall, Bidford-On- Avon
To book The Raconteurs For Your Venue Contact Ian Gibbons IMG Music [email protected]
WELCOME BACK THE RACONTEURS - FOLK MUSIC AT ITS VERY BEST
One of Tamworth’s most successful female vocalists, Tina McBain, has relaunched her highly regarded and respected folk and acoustic trio The Raconteurs.
Tamworth has a few high profile singers - Phil Bates, Julian Cope, Rebekah Ryan and Tina McBain. Her mother was a talented opera singer and as a small child Tina would sometimes sing a few songs at her mom’s local concerts but that was the extent of her musical experience. Then in the late eighties she wanted to give her father something nice when he decided to move to live in Spain. I suggest she made a tape of her singing so I booked a day in Expresso Bongo recording studio In Tamworth which was owned by former Dexy's Midnight Runners member Paul Spear. She did three songs Country Roads, Leaving On A Jet Plane and Easy Like A Sunday Morning.
I was employed at Tamworth Arts Centre at the time and we had a benefit concert planned for Oxfam. At that time I was managing a local band Present From Margate whose frontman a very talented singer songwriter and guitarist Jem McAuley. He also happened to be going out with Tina’s daughter. I asked him if he would accompany Tina doing the three songs she had done for her father’s tape at the concert. He agreed and that was her first ever concert. They enjoyed working together so much they formed a duo together called The Raconteurs.
Because of my connections I quickly got them some good shows all around the Midlands including support shows with Davy Arthur, Julie Felix, Show Of Hands, Fairport Convention, to name but a few. They recorded their first album Rachante which featured songs written by Jem McAuley. They got the support slot on former ELO Part 2 star Phil Bates' first ever solo tour.
By then they had recruited another talented local musician, Martin Kelly to join their ranks. But because of Jems commitments to his indie band (he had joined the highly regarded Yogots by that time) and The Raconteurs first incarnation came to an end.
She then asked Tamworth singer songwriter Barry Hunt if he would like to be in The Raconteurs and he agreed. They quickly became well known in folk clubs and pubs in and around the Midlands. They were now a trio, Nigel Bullock had now become the third member. They released an album called Pure And Simple which featured many of Barry Hunts own compositions and a few nice covers. The album sold really well all one thousand copies pressed which were sold mainly at gigs. They also were featured on two compilation albums Homebrew and Mantra both CDs featuring the Barry Hunt song “The Thought Of Losing You”.
Their reputation had grown and they were now getting booked to play concerts further afield and in arts centres, theatres and festivals. This continued until Barry Hunt decided he wanted to pursue his solo career, although he did agree to honour their booked commitments and at the first ever Bridgnorth Folk Festival she found Barry’s replacement the highly regarded Sutton Coldfield based musician Andy Bole. They continued to be booked at venues across the UK for several years. Notable support shows they played included support shows with Bob Geldof, Fairport Convention, Lindisfarne, Kate Rusby amongst others.
Tina then became a member of the highly respected touring band, The Eleanor Rigby Experience who specialised in the reworked songs of Lennon, McCartney and Harrison. The band featured some notable players in its various lineups including ELO Part 2 singer and guitarist Phil Bates, Jethro Tull's original drummer Clive Bunker, Fairport Convention multi instrumentalist Maartin Alcock, Soft Machine's Fred T Baker, Andy Bole and former New Bushberry Mountain Daredevils member Brian Bannister. They did three very successful theatre tours of the UK .They released one self-titled album and Tina released her own Silly Loves Songs album. Both sold well on the internet her career was now in full swing.
During this time Tina was paid a considerable amount of money by White Stripes star Jack White so he could use the name The Raconteurs (they agreed to share the right to the name in the UK and Europe and Jack would have solo rights in North American territories). Tina invited Tamworth musician ELO Part 2 member Phil Bates to be their guest at their Christmas concert at Tamworth Castle. The sold out show was fabulous all decorated with Christmas regalia the atmosphere was magical. This lit a fire in Phil Bates mind and he returned a year later and did his own concert at Tamworth Castle which was recorded and released. The album title was “A Little Light On An Electric Night “ with his ELO Part 2 colleagues Bev Bevan, Kelly Groucutt and Mik Kaminski. It sold well all over the world thanks to the internet and the worldwide ELO fan base.
By this time Phil and Tina were regularly doing duo shows together in between Phil’s working commitments with ELO Part 2. They held a regular Christmas show at Middleton Hall near Tamworth and fans would regularly travel from all parts of the UK to attend. They played as a duo far and wide. Then Phil came up with his Beatles, Blues and Blue Violin project and asked former ELO / ELO Part 2 violinist Mik Kaminski and former Eleanor Rigby Experience vocalist Tina McBain to join him in the band. They quickly became a very popular touring band and did three very successful UK theatre and arts centre tours. They played Liverpool's famous Cavern on several occasions . Tina recorded a track called “Sheldon“ written by Tamworth based singer songwriter Eamonn Galbraith for the Help The Heroes Charity. The name from the untitled song came about when they visited the National Arboretum when they gOt to the remembrance wall they decided whatever name was 15th on the wall that’s what they would call the song the name was Sheldon.
Tina was finding touring and all that goes with it had become tOo much for her with her arthritis and decided to call time on her singing career performance-wise. She continues to record with Jem McAuley who was the first person she played with but haven’t done so since lockdown. Jem is very busy working both at Tamworth Assembly Rooms and with Bob Geldof’s solo band and The Boomtown Rats as he his BG’s guitar technician ( a job we put him forward for ) touring all over the place in the UK and abroad.
Tina met up with Eamonn in August last year for a catch up and Eamonn asked her if she might like to do a few songs with him and she agreed so it was a welcome return to the stage for Tina McBain. Then on Friday 23rd August 2024, at the intimate Helping Hand Cafe in Tamworth, Tina & Eamonn played their first show together as a duo. At the end of the show she announced she would re reforming The Raconteurs. The line-up is Tina McBain vocals & Eamonn Galbraith. They say good news travels fast and soon the gig diary was bulging.
It’s just two years since Tina McBain reformed her band The Raconteurs but they are now one of the busiest folk duo’s on the Midlands folk circuit. Vocalist Tina McBain and outstanding singer songwriter Eamonn Galbraith are always looking for new venues to play. Their set consists mainly of original songs written by Eamonn Galbraith, but Tina also like to include some of her favourite cover songs and then gives them a unique folky twist.
RACONTEURS 2025 DATES
Sunday 29th June 2025 -The Fox, Dosthill, Tamworth
Wednesday 2nd July 2025 - Erdington Folk Club
Tuesday 1st July - Abbey Theatre Nuneaton TBC
Saturday 5th July - Helping Hands Cafe - 12 Noon
Monday 28th July - Upstairs Lounge, Helping Hand Cafe, Tamworth
Sunday 3rd August - Heather Folk Festival, Leicestershire
Monday 25th August - Helping Hands Folk Club, Tamworth based.
Friday 29th August - Tamworth Songwriters, Tamworth Tap
Friday 12th September - Bird In Hand, Stafford
Saturday 13th September - Gamecock Inn, Birchmoor.
Sunday 14th September - The Donkey Leicester
Saturday 20th September - Helping Hand Cafe Afternoon Show
Sunday 21st September - Fairfield Village Hall, Bromsgrove
Thursday 25th September - The Robin2 Bilston
Friday 26th September - Marrs Bar, Worcester
Saturday 27th September - Scared Heart Church, Tamworth
Saturday 11th October - Brimfield Village Hall, Brimfield, Herfordshire
Wednesday 15th October - Huntingdon Hall, Worcester
Thursday 16th October - Globe Theatre, Hay On Wye
Friday 17th October - St Peter’s Church, Huddersfield
Saturday 18th September - Elford Village Hall, Tamworth
Thursday 23rd October - Kitchen Garden Cafe, Birmingham
Thursday 30th October - St Mary’s Church, Twyford, Berkshire
Saturday 1st November - Helping Hand Cafe - 12 Noon
Saturday 22nd November - Edingale Village Hall, Near Tamworth
Friday 28th November - Owen Street Community Theatre, Atherstone
Saturday 6th December - Elford Village Hall, Tamworth
Saturday 20th December - Helping Hand Cafe, Tamworth Afternoon
RACONTEURS 2026 DATES
Saturday 17th January 2026 - Erdingale Village Hall, Near Tamworth
Sunday 18th January - Colton Village Hall, Rugeley
Friday 23rd January - Stonnall Village Hall, Walsall
Saturday 31st January - British Legion Club, Sutton Coldfield
Friday 6th February - Neither Whitacre Village Hall, Birmingham
Saturday 7th February - Standfields Pumping Station, Lichfield
Saturday 28th February - St Editha’s Church, Tamworth
Saturday 2nd May - Stoke Golding Village Hall, Nuneaton
Saturday 9th May - Linton Village Hall, Swadlincote
Friday 15th May - UB12 Urban Village Hall, Birmingham
Friday 15th May - Chadworth Village Hall Cheltenham
Friday 22nd May - Aston Cantlow Village Hall,Henley In Arden
Saturday 23rd May - Twycross Village Hall, Atherstone
Friday 29th May - Twyford Village Hall, Melton Mowbray
Saturday 30th May - Quinney Hall, Sutton Coldfield
Sunday 31st May - Brimfield Village Hall, Ludlow
Saturday 7th November -The Globe Theatre, Hay On Wye
Sunday 8th November - Abbey Theatre, Nuneaton
Friday 13th November - The Churchill Theatre Bromley
Saturday 14th November - Mackadown Club, Birmingham
Friday 20th November - Cromer Community Arts Centre, Cromer
Saturday 21st November - Metfield Village Hall And Community Bar
Friday 27th November - Westbury On Trim Village Hall
Saturday 28th November - Woolton Village Club, Liverpool
Friday 4th December - The Owen Street Arts Centre, Atherstone
Saturday 5th December - West Malvern Social Club
Sunday 6th December - Hexagon Theatre MAC, Birmingham
Saturday 12th December -The Village Pump, Trowbridge
Friday 18th December - The White Horse Inn, Duns Tew, Bicester
Saturday 19th December - Crawford Memorial Hall, Bidford-On- Avon
To book The Raconteurs For Your Venue Contact Ian Gibbons IMG Music [email protected]
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02/06/2024
JLELOVetsAid
JLELOVetsAid
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02/06/2024
OrchBielandPeruvidz
OrchBielandPeruvidz
02/06/2024
RenRecsnewPt2vinyl
RenRecsnewPt2vinyl
02/06/2024
NewHuxcd
NewHuxcd
02/06/2024
ELOLive72 cd
ELOLive72 cd
02/06/2024
MoveShazamcd
MoveShazamcd
02/06/2024
ShindigMoveSpecial
ShindigMoveSpecial
02/06/2024
NewELOBookvol2Amazon
NewELOBookvol2Amazon
02/06/2024
NewQuillcd
NewQuillcd
02/06/2024
RWGin
RWGin
02/06/2024
JLELO
JLELO
02/06/2024
DSM
DSM
02/06/2024
Mike de
Mike de
02/06/2024
Thanks to Louis Clark Jnr. for an insight into his Dad, Louis Clark's original orchestral works for the ELO album 'Out Of The Blue' from original cassette recordings and his Dad's original handwritten scores. Amazing - enjoy this 12 minutes of stunning orchestral work, the 'Out Of The Blue Instrumental Medley 2' - Youtube video here.
Thanks to Louis Clark Jnr. for an insight into his Dad, Louis Clark's original orchestral works for the ELO album 'Out Of The Blue' from original cassette recordings and his Dad's original handwritten scores. Amazing - enjoy this 12 minutes of stunning orchestral work, the 'Out Of The Blue Instrumental Medley 2' - Youtube video here.
10/12/2023
I have just received some amazing information about the unreleased 1980 solo album by Eric Troyer. The album called 'String Of Pearls' was recorded back in 1980 and was to be released on the Chrysalis label, but sadly it has remained unreleased. A single from the album, 'Mirage / Meet Me At Midnight' was released and reached the lower end of the U.S. Billboard charts.
The album contained 9 tracks - Saturday Night, Burning, Meet Me At Midnight, String Of Pearls, In The Long Run, Jack, Mirage, Fair Light and Over Again.
Apparently a few demo copies of the album were issued but I personally have never seen a copy (but I have heard the songs from the album).
Now, the good news. I have recently been contacted by a former record company A&R representative who is currently downsizing his own personal collection and he has a MINT vinyl promotional test pressing of Eric's solo album (see images of the item below). He is open to selling this rare item preferably to a fan before putting it on an auction site. If anybody wants the contact details of the seller then please email me and I will forward information. Please note I have no connection with the seller.
I have just received some amazing information about the unreleased 1980 solo album by Eric Troyer. The album called 'String Of Pearls' was recorded back in 1980 and was to be released on the Chrysalis label, but sadly it has remained unreleased. A single from the album, 'Mirage / Meet Me At Midnight' was released and reached the lower end of the U.S. Billboard charts.
The album contained 9 tracks - Saturday Night, Burning, Meet Me At Midnight, String Of Pearls, In The Long Run, Jack, Mirage, Fair Light and Over Again.
Apparently a few demo copies of the album were issued but I personally have never seen a copy (but I have heard the songs from the album).
Now, the good news. I have recently been contacted by a former record company A&R representative who is currently downsizing his own personal collection and he has a MINT vinyl promotional test pressing of Eric's solo album (see images of the item below). He is open to selling this rare item preferably to a fan before putting it on an auction site. If anybody wants the contact details of the seller then please email me and I will forward information. Please note I have no connection with the seller.
27/07/2023
Former ELO Part 2 and The Orchestra vocalist and lead guitarist, Phil Bates has announced dates for his 'Up Close & Personal' UK solo tour throughout 2023 and into 2026. Full list of dates can be found on the Gigs page, where you can download the latest list (updated 2nd June 2024).
Former ELO Part 2 and The Orchestra vocalist and lead guitarist, Phil Bates has announced dates for his 'Up Close & Personal' UK solo tour throughout 2023 and into 2026. Full list of dates can be found on the Gigs page, where you can download the latest list (updated 2nd June 2024).
27/07/2023
Quill (ft Bev Bevan) are celebrating 50 years of the band with a final tour planned for October through to December 2023. Full details can be found at their Official Quill Website.
Quill (ft Bev Bevan) are celebrating 50 years of the band with a final tour planned for October through to December 2023. Full details can be found at their Official Quill Website.
11/03/2023
The Orchestra (ft Former Members of ELO & ELO Part 2) have a new official website at www.theorchestraband.com. The site features band history, gallery, tour dates and a store.
The Orchestra (ft Former Members of ELO & ELO Part 2) have a new official website at www.theorchestraband.com. The site features band history, gallery, tour dates and a store.
09/02/2023
Former ELO member, Dave Scott Morgan has finally released the 'Secret Album' by Morgan Cleary on vinyl and cd (with bonus tracks). The album was produced by former ELO keyboard player Richard Tandy. The songs were recorded over 40 years ago, but the album itself was never officially released until now. Full details at Dave Scott Morgans website shop here.
Former ELO member, Dave Scott Morgan has finally released the 'Secret Album' by Morgan Cleary on vinyl and cd (with bonus tracks). The album was produced by former ELO keyboard player Richard Tandy. The songs were recorded over 40 years ago, but the album itself was never officially released until now. Full details at Dave Scott Morgans website shop here.
08/02/2023
Former ELO and The Move drummer, Bev Bevan has two shows at the Kitchen Garden Cafe, Birmingham on Thursday 16th February where he chats to Des Tong about his career and future plans and also features music, video footage and an audience Q&A session. The evening show at 7:30pm is sold out and there are just a few tickets left for the extra 5pm show here.
Former ELO and The Move drummer, Bev Bevan has two shows at the Kitchen Garden Cafe, Birmingham on Thursday 16th February where he chats to Des Tong about his career and future plans and also features music, video footage and an audience Q&A session. The evening show at 7:30pm is sold out and there are just a few tickets left for the extra 5pm show here.
07/02/2023
Parthenon Huxley has a new album on the way - "I'm excited to announce that today (7th February) I've launched a Kickstarter for my almost completed new album As Good As Advertised! If you're familiar with Kickstarter and would like to go straight to my page, here's the link:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/newphux/help-p-hux-finish-his-new-album-as-good-as-advertised?ref=1leh4s
I've worked for three years on these recordings and my co-producer Mark Williams says As Good As Advertised may be the best album I've ever done. I'm beginning to think he's right! I can't wait for you to hear it!
My Kickstarter will be live for the next 30 days only. I hope you'll make a generous pledge and become my co-producer. Rewards include CDs, downloads, T shirts, guitar lessons, signed guitars, house concerts and more. Please click the link. Thanks! Once you've made a pledge, please tell a friend!"
Parthenon Huxley has a new album on the way - "I'm excited to announce that today (7th February) I've launched a Kickstarter for my almost completed new album As Good As Advertised! If you're familiar with Kickstarter and would like to go straight to my page, here's the link:
https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/newphux/help-p-hux-finish-his-new-album-as-good-as-advertised?ref=1leh4s
I've worked for three years on these recordings and my co-producer Mark Williams says As Good As Advertised may be the best album I've ever done. I'm beginning to think he's right! I can't wait for you to hear it!
My Kickstarter will be live for the next 30 days only. I hope you'll make a generous pledge and become my co-producer. Rewards include CDs, downloads, T shirts, guitar lessons, signed guitars, house concerts and more. Please click the link. Thanks! Once you've made a pledge, please tell a friend!"
06/02/2023
Former ELO Part 2 and The Orchestra vocalist/guitarist Phil Bates is busy touring Europe throughout 2023 with his Phil Bates Band and the Berlin String Ensemble at many of the shows. Back in December, Phil and his band along with the Kaunas Symphony Orchestra performed three arena shows in Lithuania, which looked amazing. Lots of great footage from the shows can be found at the following Youtube channels - www.youtube.com/@lv9970/videos and www.youtube.com/@edithkoett1701/videos.
Former ELO Part 2 and The Orchestra vocalist/guitarist Phil Bates is busy touring Europe throughout 2023 with his Phil Bates Band and the Berlin String Ensemble at many of the shows. Back in December, Phil and his band along with the Kaunas Symphony Orchestra performed three arena shows in Lithuania, which looked amazing. Lots of great footage from the shows can be found at the following Youtube channels - www.youtube.com/@lv9970/videos and www.youtube.com/@edithkoett1701/videos.
03/12/2022
The Orchestra performed a wonderful concert at the Christmas Sessions event at the Kongresshaus, Biel, Switzerland on 24th November 2022. The concert was pro-filmed and has been made available to view and download here.
The Orchestra performed a wonderful concert at the Christmas Sessions event at the Kongresshaus, Biel, Switzerland on 24th November 2022. The concert was pro-filmed and has been made available to view and download here.
15/10/2022
The Orchestra will be performing their only 2022 European gig at the Congress House, Biel, Switzerland on Thursday 24th November as part of the annual Christmas Sessions event. Tickets are on sale now via Seetickets/Startickets. More details of the Christmas Sessions series of concerts can be found on the Official Christmas Sessions website and Facebook page.
The Orchestra will be performing their only 2022 European gig at the Congress House, Biel, Switzerland on Thursday 24th November as part of the annual Christmas Sessions event. Tickets are on sale now via Seetickets/Startickets. More details of the Christmas Sessions series of concerts can be found on the Official Christmas Sessions website and Facebook page.
15/08/2022
Renaissance Records USA are releasing a remastered edition of The Orchestra's 2001 album 'No Rewind' on 19th September 2022 with pre-orders being taken now. The initial release will be on cd and will feature the original 10 tracks all fully remastered along with a hidden bonus track that was only previously included on the original limited edition release back in 2001. There are plans to release the album on vinyl for the first time in Spring 2023. Full details here.
Renaissance Records USA are releasing a remastered edition of The Orchestra's 2001 album 'No Rewind' on 19th September 2022 with pre-orders being taken now. The initial release will be on cd and will feature the original 10 tracks all fully remastered along with a hidden bonus track that was only previously included on the original limited edition release back in 2001. There are plans to release the album on vinyl for the first time in Spring 2023. Full details here.
22/06/2022
Great review and superb photos from The Orchestra's first show at the Tel Aviv Culture Centre (Charles Bronfman Auditorium), Israel on Wednesday 1st June 2022 here. Great live interview and acoustic performance by The Orchestra on Kan Reshet Bet radio in Tel Aviv, Israel on 31st May 2022. Hux, Eric, Glen, Cliff and Mik appeared on the show and performed three songs, 'Evil Woman', 'Livin Thing' and 'Don't Bring Me Down'. Click here to view the performance.
Great review and superb photos from The Orchestra's first show at the Tel Aviv Culture Centre (Charles Bronfman Auditorium), Israel on Wednesday 1st June 2022 here. Great live interview and acoustic performance by The Orchestra on Kan Reshet Bet radio in Tel Aviv, Israel on 31st May 2022. Hux, Eric, Glen, Cliff and Mik appeared on the show and performed three songs, 'Evil Woman', 'Livin Thing' and 'Don't Bring Me Down'. Click here to view the performance.
18/05/2022
Sad news that former Wizzard and The Move bassist, Rick Price, passed away on 17th May 2022.
Sad news that former Wizzard and The Move bassist, Rick Price, passed away on 17th May 2022.
11/02/2022
The Orchestra have 4 concerts coming up in Israel in June 2022 (rescheduled from January 2022).......
Wednesday 1st June 2022 (rescheduled from 16th January 2022) – Tel Aviv Culture Centre (Charles Bronfman Auditorium), Tel Aviv, Israel
Thursday 2nd June 2022 (rescheduled from 17th January 2022) – Tel Aviv Culture Centre (Charles Bronfman Auditorium), Tel Aviv, Israel
Sunday 5th June 2022 (rescheduled from 19th January 2022) – Haifa Congress Centre, Haifa, Israel
Monday 6th June 2022 (rescheduled from 18th January 2022) – Binyanei Hauma, Jerusalem, Israel
The band also have the following concerts in Florida, USA next month........
Saturday 19th March 2022 – Florida Theatre, Jacksonville, FL, USA (with the Jacksonville Rock Symphony Orchestra). [Tickets to the original show dates of March 14th 2020 and July 11th 2020 will be honoured]. Details here.
Friday 25th March – Monday 28th March 2022 - Garden Rocks Concert Series, Epcot, FLA, USA. Details here.
The Orchestra have 4 concerts coming up in Israel in June 2022 (rescheduled from January 2022).......
Wednesday 1st June 2022 (rescheduled from 16th January 2022) – Tel Aviv Culture Centre (Charles Bronfman Auditorium), Tel Aviv, Israel
Thursday 2nd June 2022 (rescheduled from 17th January 2022) – Tel Aviv Culture Centre (Charles Bronfman Auditorium), Tel Aviv, Israel
Sunday 5th June 2022 (rescheduled from 19th January 2022) – Haifa Congress Centre, Haifa, Israel
Monday 6th June 2022 (rescheduled from 18th January 2022) – Binyanei Hauma, Jerusalem, Israel
The band also have the following concerts in Florida, USA next month........
Saturday 19th March 2022 – Florida Theatre, Jacksonville, FL, USA (with the Jacksonville Rock Symphony Orchestra). [Tickets to the original show dates of March 14th 2020 and July 11th 2020 will be honoured]. Details here.
Friday 25th March – Monday 28th March 2022 - Garden Rocks Concert Series, Epcot, FLA, USA. Details here.
11/02/2022
Former Electric Light Orchestra guitarist and vocalist, Dave Scott-Morgan has a solo show on Saturday 26th March 2022 at Allens Cross Community Association, 24 Tinkers Farm Road, Birmingham (rescheduled from 18th December 2021). Also featuring in the line-up will be Morganisation and Martin Smith (former ELO member). Ticket details here.
Former Electric Light Orchestra guitarist and vocalist, Dave Scott-Morgan has a solo show on Saturday 26th March 2022 at Allens Cross Community Association, 24 Tinkers Farm Road, Birmingham (rescheduled from 18th December 2021). Also featuring in the line-up will be Morganisation and Martin Smith (former ELO member). Ticket details here.
05/11/2021
Former Electric Light Orchestra guitarist and vocalist, Dave Scott-Morgan has a solo show on Saturday 18th December 2021 at Allens Cross Community Association, 24 Tinkers Farm Road, Birmingham. Also featuring in the line-up will be Morganisation and Martin Smith (former ELO member). Ticket details here.
Former Electric Light Orchestra guitarist and vocalist, Dave Scott-Morgan has a solo show on Saturday 18th December 2021 at Allens Cross Community Association, 24 Tinkers Farm Road, Birmingham. Also featuring in the line-up will be Morganisation and Martin Smith (former ELO member). Ticket details here.
04/11/2021
The Orchestra have 3 concerts coming up in Israel in January 2022. Details to follow.
The Orchestra have 3 concerts coming up in Israel in January 2022. Details to follow.
04/11/2021
Quill have a new album 'Riding Rainbows' out now. The band of course feature former Electric Light Orchestra drummer Bev Bevan with three of the tracks featuring the Maverick Strings orchestrated by Louis Clark Jnr. The cd can be ordered from the bands official website here. The title track from the album also has a wonderful video, which can be seen on Youtube here.
Quill have a new album 'Riding Rainbows' out now. The band of course feature former Electric Light Orchestra drummer Bev Bevan with three of the tracks featuring the Maverick Strings orchestrated by Louis Clark Jnr. The cd can be ordered from the bands official website here. The title track from the album also has a wonderful video, which can be seen on Youtube here.
21/10/2021
The Orchestra have a few concerts coming up over the next few weeks...
Thursday 28th October 2021 – Coastal Carolina Fair, Ladson, SC, USA
https://www.coastalcarolinafair.org/
Thursday 4th November 2021 - The Des Plaines Theatre, 1476 Miner Street, Des Plaines, IL 60016
https://desplainestheatre.com/events/
Saturday 6th November 2021 – Rivers Casino & Resort, Schenectady, NY, USA
https://www.riverscasino.com/schenectady/entertainment/event-center/the-orchestra-starring-former-members-of-elo
The Orchestra have a few concerts coming up over the next few weeks...
Thursday 28th October 2021 – Coastal Carolina Fair, Ladson, SC, USA
https://www.coastalcarolinafair.org/
Thursday 4th November 2021 - The Des Plaines Theatre, 1476 Miner Street, Des Plaines, IL 60016
https://desplainestheatre.com/events/
Saturday 6th November 2021 – Rivers Casino & Resort, Schenectady, NY, USA
https://www.riverscasino.com/schenectady/entertainment/event-center/the-orchestra-starring-former-members-of-elo
21/10/2021
Renaissance Records USA are releasing a 2cd Anthology by Electric Light Orchestra 2 & The Orchestra on 21st November 2021. This recording was originally self-released by The Orchestra back in 2009, shortly after Kelly Groucutt's passing and was available at gigs only. This release has new updated artwork and commentary, plus an extra track 16 on cd2 called 'In Honor Of Kelly Groucutt'.
Click here to view full details of this new release.
Renaissance Records USA are releasing a 2cd Anthology by Electric Light Orchestra 2 & The Orchestra on 21st November 2021. This recording was originally self-released by The Orchestra back in 2009, shortly after Kelly Groucutt's passing and was available at gigs only. This release has new updated artwork and commentary, plus an extra track 16 on cd2 called 'In Honor Of Kelly Groucutt'.
Click here to view full details of this new release.
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05/08/2021
Former Trickster, ELO Part 2 and The Orchestra vocalist and lead guitarist Phil Bates, has a solo gig at The Keys in Huddersfield, UK on Saturday 9th October. Details are as follows....
PHIL BATES live at The Keys, Huddersfield
Former ELO Part 2 Frontman
Saturday 9th October 8pm (doors open 7:30pm)
Tickets £17 inc pie and peas
BOOK ONLINE NOW!!! https://togo.uk.com/viewevent/25734
Telephone Bookings 01484 516677
UPDATED 01/10/2021 - Show Cancelled
Former Trickster, ELO Part 2 and The Orchestra vocalist and lead guitarist Phil Bates, has a solo gig at The Keys in Huddersfield, UK on Saturday 9th October. Details are as follows....
PHIL BATES live at The Keys, Huddersfield
Former ELO Part 2 Frontman
Saturday 9th October 8pm (doors open 7:30pm)
Tickets £17 inc pie and peas
BOOK ONLINE NOW!!! https://togo.uk.com/viewevent/25734
Telephone Bookings 01484 516677
UPDATED 01/10/2021 - Show Cancelled
Phil Bates
05/08/2021
The Orchestra's concert at the Parque Juan Ceada (Zafra) in Huelva, Spain on Friday 30th July was filmed by an audience member and can be seen on Youtube here.
The Orchestra's concert at the Parque Juan Ceada (Zafra) in Huelva, Spain on Friday 30th July was filmed by an audience member and can be seen on Youtube here.
The Orchestra (ft Former ELO Members) live on stage in Huelva, Spain. Photo (c) Julio Skimy
24/06/2021
The Orchestra will be performing live at the Parque Juan Ceada (Zafra) in Huelva, Spain on Friday 30th July. Tickets for the show are on sale now from Huelva Tickets.
The Orchestra will be performing live at the Parque Juan Ceada (Zafra) in Huelva, Spain on Friday 30th July. Tickets for the show are on sale now from Huelva Tickets.
24/06/2021
Renaissance Records USA are releasing remastered editions of the two Electric Light Orchestra Part 2 albums from the early 1990's. Both albums feature bonus tracks and are being released on cd this week and on vinyl in the autumn. Links for the albums are as follows.....
Electric Light Orchestra Part 2 - 'Electric Light Orchestra Part 2' cd / vinyl
Electric Light Orchestra Part 2 - 'Moment Of Truth' cd / vinyl
Renaissance Records USA are releasing remastered editions of the two Electric Light Orchestra Part 2 albums from the early 1990's. Both albums feature bonus tracks and are being released on cd this week and on vinyl in the autumn. Links for the albums are as follows.....
Electric Light Orchestra Part 2 - 'Electric Light Orchestra Part 2' cd / vinyl
Electric Light Orchestra Part 2 - 'Moment Of Truth' cd / vinyl
09/07/2019
The new album, 'Seven' by former Electric Light Orchestra member, Dave Scott-Morgan and Morganisation was released on 7th July. The album features seven songs plus a bonus track. The songs have been collated by Dave from his long career and includes a track featuring the late, former Move singer Carl Wayne on vocals. More details on the album can be found at Dave's official website and up-to-date news and gossip via Dave's Morganisation Facebook page.
The new album, 'Seven' by former Electric Light Orchestra member, Dave Scott-Morgan and Morganisation was released on 7th July. The album features seven songs plus a bonus track. The songs have been collated by Dave from his long career and includes a track featuring the late, former Move singer Carl Wayne on vocals. More details on the album can be found at Dave's official website and up-to-date news and gossip via Dave's Morganisation Facebook page.
New album by Morganisation, 'Seven' is out now.
09/07/2019
Parthenon Huxley has a new album out now called 'This Is The One' (by P. Hux). The Orchestra's lead guitarist and vocalist has released this superb new album of tuneful pop tracks and can be purchased on cd or download. Highly recommend. Check out Hux's Official site for more details on the album and to purchase at Hux's Official Shop.
Parthenon Huxley has a new album out now called 'This Is The One' (by P. Hux). The Orchestra's lead guitarist and vocalist has released this superb new album of tuneful pop tracks and can be purchased on cd or download. Highly recommend. Check out Hux's Official site for more details on the album and to purchase at Hux's Official Shop.
17/01/2017
Two new Trevor Burton Band cd's, 'Best Of Volume 1' and 'Best Of Volume 2', will be available from 22nd January at Trevor's live gigs and also via email at [email protected].
Two new Trevor Burton Band cd's, 'Best Of Volume 1' and 'Best Of Volume 2', will be available from 22nd January at Trevor's live gigs and also via email at [email protected].
17/01/2017
27th January sees the release of a new cd+dvd package by The Move, Magnetic Waves Of Sound - The Best Of The Move'. The dvd sees the first official time that the complete BBC Colour Me Pop broadcast from 1968 featuring the band. Amazon.
27th January sees the release of a new cd+dvd package by The Move, Magnetic Waves Of Sound - The Best Of The Move'. The dvd sees the first official time that the complete BBC Colour Me Pop broadcast from 1968 featuring the band. Amazon.
17/01/2017
The Ancient Order Of Froth Blowers feature ex-ELO and Wizzard's Bill Hunt and Hugh McDowell, and they have released a double b-side single inspired by early ELO and Roy Wood. I received my 7" beer coloured vinyl of this fantastic release last week. If you like Roy Wood and early ELO, this is a must buy.
Official video for 'El Original Brew' - Vimeo / Youtube.
Fan video for 'The Kentish Town Song' - Youtube.
Official Website Link - Website.
Official Facebook Page - Facebook.
The Ancient Order Of Froth Blowers feature ex-ELO and Wizzard's Bill Hunt and Hugh McDowell, and they have released a double b-side single inspired by early ELO and Roy Wood. I received my 7" beer coloured vinyl of this fantastic release last week. If you like Roy Wood and early ELO, this is a must buy.
Official video for 'El Original Brew' - Vimeo / Youtube.
Fan video for 'The Kentish Town Song' - Youtube.
Official Website Link - Website.
Official Facebook Page - Facebook.
Bill Hunt (ex-ELO and Wizzard) and his nephew Miles Hunt (Wonderstuff). [Photo taken from the AOOFB Facebook Page].
14/02/2015
Phil Bates will be performing at The Marina, Liverpool on Thursday 12th March.
"This gig represents an overdue and very welcome return to Liverpool by Phil Bates, a guitarist/singer/songwriter of exceptionable ability. His impressive pedigree includes being a key member of ELO Part 2 and a leading component of other ELO-related projects. Phil has played alongside an impressive array of artistes including Duane Eddy, Black Sabbath, Robert Plant, Paul Carrack and Billy Ocean, appearing on many major stages of the world – not least, Madison Square Garden and Carnegie Hall. As a solo performer, Phil boasts enviable versatility, mixing excellent original material with highly inventive versions of songs by a diverse range of composers encompassing Robert Johnson, Hendrix, Lennon & McCartney, Stevie Wonder and Bob Dylan. But all of his arrangements reflect his love and mastery of traditional blues roots music and never fail to enthral and delight his audiences in equal measure. The combination of Phil’s artistry and the wonderful ambience of the Marina promises to produce another magical evening."
Venue : Liverpool Marina map.
Tickets : £11 Advance, £12 Door.
Door : 8:00pm.
Starts : 8:45pm.
More details, and to purchase tickets in advance, visit Johnny's Blues Club Website.
Phil Bates will be performing at The Marina, Liverpool on Thursday 12th March.
"This gig represents an overdue and very welcome return to Liverpool by Phil Bates, a guitarist/singer/songwriter of exceptionable ability. His impressive pedigree includes being a key member of ELO Part 2 and a leading component of other ELO-related projects. Phil has played alongside an impressive array of artistes including Duane Eddy, Black Sabbath, Robert Plant, Paul Carrack and Billy Ocean, appearing on many major stages of the world – not least, Madison Square Garden and Carnegie Hall. As a solo performer, Phil boasts enviable versatility, mixing excellent original material with highly inventive versions of songs by a diverse range of composers encompassing Robert Johnson, Hendrix, Lennon & McCartney, Stevie Wonder and Bob Dylan. But all of his arrangements reflect his love and mastery of traditional blues roots music and never fail to enthral and delight his audiences in equal measure. The combination of Phil’s artistry and the wonderful ambience of the Marina promises to produce another magical evening."
Venue : Liverpool Marina map.
Tickets : £11 Advance, £12 Door.
Door : 8:00pm.
Starts : 8:45pm.
More details, and to purchase tickets in advance, visit Johnny's Blues Club Website.
25/01/2015
Martin Kinch of the Cherry Blossom Clinic announced on his Facebook page today news of the sad passing of former Electric Light Orchestra violinist, Wilf Gibson back in October 2014.
Martin Kinch of the Cherry Blossom Clinic announced on his Facebook page today news of the sad passing of former Electric Light Orchestra violinist, Wilf Gibson back in October 2014.
04/01/2015
Phil Bates has one of his rare solo gigs at The Jamhouse in Birmingham on Tuesday 3rd February which is free entry too. Details here.
Phil Bates has one of his rare solo gigs at The Jamhouse in Birmingham on Tuesday 3rd February which is free entry too. Details here.
27/12/2014
ELO Books section updated with news of a new Roy Wood book now available via Amazon for Kindle and in paperback.
ELO Books section updated with news of a new Roy Wood book now available via Amazon for Kindle and in paperback.
15/09/2014
Concert Photos section updated with screen shots taken from the television coverage of the Radio 2 Festival In A Day live in Hyde Park concert on Sunday 14th September, featuring Chrissie Hynde, Bellowhead, Kacey Musgraves, Gregory Porter, Paloma Faith, Billy Ocean, Blondie and headliners Jeff Lynne's Electric Light Orchestra with the BBC Concert Orchestra.
Concert Photos section updated with screen shots taken from the television coverage of the Radio 2 Festival In A Day live in Hyde Park concert on Sunday 14th September, featuring Chrissie Hynde, Bellowhead, Kacey Musgraves, Gregory Porter, Paloma Faith, Billy Ocean, Blondie and headliners Jeff Lynne's Electric Light Orchestra with the BBC Concert Orchestra.
09/09/2014
Apologies for the lack of news and updates in recent months, but keep checking back for lots of updates over the coming weeks including news, reviews and photos from Jeff Lynne's appearance at Radio 2's live show at Hyde Park on Sunday 14th September with Jeff headlining with the BBC Concert Orchestra. Plus I will be visiting Berlin in early October and will be attending the Teltow Festival where the headline act on Friday 3rd October will be Phil Bates & Band performing Electric Light Orchestra classics so lots of photos and videos of that event will be posted shortly afterwards.
Apologies for the lack of news and updates in recent months, but keep checking back for lots of updates over the coming weeks including news, reviews and photos from Jeff Lynne's appearance at Radio 2's live show at Hyde Park on Sunday 14th September with Jeff headlining with the BBC Concert Orchestra. Plus I will be visiting Berlin in early October and will be attending the Teltow Festival where the headline act on Friday 3rd October will be Phil Bates & Band performing Electric Light Orchestra classics so lots of photos and videos of that event will be posted shortly afterwards.
08/03/2014
Jeff Lynne has been a very busy man this week here in the U.K. On Wednesday he was honoured by Birmingham City University by being presented with an honorary doctorate at a ceremony in Birmingham Symphony Hall. Read the report in the Birmingham Mail. You can also watch part of the ceremony on Youtube.
Jeff was also a guest on the Chris Evans Breakfast Show on BBC Radio 2 on Friday. It was an early start for Jeff. Chris is a huge Jeff Lynne / E.L.O. fan and they spent a lot of time chatting about Jeff's career and even trying to get Jeff to commit to some U.K. gigs. Check out the photos on the BBC Radio 2 Website. To listen to Jeff's interview, Nicolas has this available on his Discovery Website.
Jeff also appeared again on the BBC tv's 'The One Show' on Friday evening as the main guest. The show was hosted by Chris Evans and again had Jeff chatting about his career, future plans and there was a nice featurette with clips of E.L.O.'s best-known hits sang 'karaoke-style' by various members of the public. Jeff also played 'When I'm Cleaning Windows' on a ukelele. Jeff's appearance on the show can be viewed on Youtube. All images below (c) the various websites - BBC, Associated Press.
Jeff Lynne has been a very busy man this week here in the U.K. On Wednesday he was honoured by Birmingham City University by being presented with an honorary doctorate at a ceremony in Birmingham Symphony Hall. Read the report in the Birmingham Mail. You can also watch part of the ceremony on Youtube.
Jeff was also a guest on the Chris Evans Breakfast Show on BBC Radio 2 on Friday. It was an early start for Jeff. Chris is a huge Jeff Lynne / E.L.O. fan and they spent a lot of time chatting about Jeff's career and even trying to get Jeff to commit to some U.K. gigs. Check out the photos on the BBC Radio 2 Website. To listen to Jeff's interview, Nicolas has this available on his Discovery Website.
Jeff also appeared again on the BBC tv's 'The One Show' on Friday evening as the main guest. The show was hosted by Chris Evans and again had Jeff chatting about his career, future plans and there was a nice featurette with clips of E.L.O.'s best-known hits sang 'karaoke-style' by various members of the public. Jeff also played 'When I'm Cleaning Windows' on a ukelele. Jeff's appearance on the show can be viewed on Youtube. All images below (c) the various websites - BBC, Associated Press.
08/03/2014
Phil Bates returns to the U.K. next week for some solo gigs and also with his Acoustic Trio (Phil Bates, Jo Bates and Susanne Filep) who perform E.L.O. tracks and much more. Dates and venues as listed below (I will be attending the gigs in Huddersfield and Bilston, so looking forward to seeing Phil again, as it has been 18 month since last seeing him over here in the U.K.).
March 13th - Phil Bates solo, Leek Acoustic Club, Leek, Staffs (Ticket Details).
March 15th - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Keys Restaurant, Huddersfield (Ticket Details).
March 16th - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Robin 2, Bilston (Ticket Details).
March 18th - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Middleton Hall nr Tamworth (Ticket Details).
March 20th - Phil Bates solo, Ruthin All-Styles Music Club, Clwyd (Ticket Details).
March 22nd - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Baskerville Arms, Clyro, Hay-On-Wye (Ticket Details).
Phil Bates returns to the U.K. next week for some solo gigs and also with his Acoustic Trio (Phil Bates, Jo Bates and Susanne Filep) who perform E.L.O. tracks and much more. Dates and venues as listed below (I will be attending the gigs in Huddersfield and Bilston, so looking forward to seeing Phil again, as it has been 18 month since last seeing him over here in the U.K.).
March 13th - Phil Bates solo, Leek Acoustic Club, Leek, Staffs (Ticket Details).
March 15th - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Keys Restaurant, Huddersfield (Ticket Details).
March 16th - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Robin 2, Bilston (Ticket Details).
March 18th - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Middleton Hall nr Tamworth (Ticket Details).
March 20th - Phil Bates solo, Ruthin All-Styles Music Club, Clwyd (Ticket Details).
March 22nd - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Baskerville Arms, Clyro, Hay-On-Wye (Ticket Details).
08/03/2014
The Orchestra performed three gigs here in the U.K. last weekend. 28th February at The Plug, Sheffield, 1st March at Fats Sams, Dundee and on 2nd March at The Ironworks, Inverness. Here's hoping for some more U.K. dates later this year. The Sheffield gig was fantastic with a lively audience. Check out the Video Section for videos from the gig and also Concert Photos 2014 page for lots of photos and a short review.
The Orchestra performed three gigs here in the U.K. last weekend. 28th February at The Plug, Sheffield, 1st March at Fats Sams, Dundee and on 2nd March at The Ironworks, Inverness. Here's hoping for some more U.K. dates later this year. The Sheffield gig was fantastic with a lively audience. Check out the Video Section for videos from the gig and also Concert Photos 2014 page for lots of photos and a short review.
23/02/2014
Jeff Lynne will be awarded with his own star at the Broad Street Walk of Stars, Birmingham on Thursday 13th March, and a week earlier on 5th March, Jeff will be awarded an honorary doctorate degree by Birmingham City University.
More details can be found at the following links -
Birmingham Post
ELO Biz - the Offical Jeff Lynne & E.L.O. Website
Birmingham Mail
Jeff Lynne will be awarded with his own star at the Broad Street Walk of Stars, Birmingham on Thursday 13th March, and a week earlier on 5th March, Jeff will be awarded an honorary doctorate degree by Birmingham City University.
More details can be found at the following links -
Birmingham Post
ELO Biz - the Offical Jeff Lynne & E.L.O. Website
Birmingham Mail
21/02/2014
Next weeks Top Of The Pops from 1979 to be broadcast on BBC4 on Thursday 27th February at 7:30pm, repeated full programme Friday 1:45am and Sunday 00:45am will feature Mik Kaminski with Violinski performing 'Clog Dance'.
Full show run-down...
1-3-79: Presenter: Mike Read
(29) THE CARS – Just What I Needed (and charts)
(20) THE SKIDS – Into The Valley
(4) GLORIA GAYNOR – I Will Survive (video)
(46) THIN LIZZY – Waiting For An Alibi
(23) GARY’S GANG – Keep On Dancin’ (danced to by Legs & Co)
(28) QUEEN – Don’t Stop Me Now (video)
(25) CHIC – I Want Your Love
(40) VIOLINSKI – Clog Dance
(8) LENE LOVICH – Lucky Number
(26) BONEY M – Painter Man (video)
(55) DAVID ESSEX – Imperial Wizard
(1) THE BEE GEES – Tragedy (danced to by Legs & Co)
(24) THE SEX PISTOLS – Something Else (and credits)
Next weeks Top Of The Pops from 1979 to be broadcast on BBC4 on Thursday 27th February at 7:30pm, repeated full programme Friday 1:45am and Sunday 00:45am will feature Mik Kaminski with Violinski performing 'Clog Dance'.
Full show run-down...
1-3-79: Presenter: Mike Read
(29) THE CARS – Just What I Needed (and charts)
(20) THE SKIDS – Into The Valley
(4) GLORIA GAYNOR – I Will Survive (video)
(46) THIN LIZZY – Waiting For An Alibi
(23) GARY’S GANG – Keep On Dancin’ (danced to by Legs & Co)
(28) QUEEN – Don’t Stop Me Now (video)
(25) CHIC – I Want Your Love
(40) VIOLINSKI – Clog Dance
(8) LENE LOVICH – Lucky Number
(26) BONEY M – Painter Man (video)
(55) DAVID ESSEX – Imperial Wizard
(1) THE BEE GEES – Tragedy (danced to by Legs & Co)
(24) THE SEX PISTOLS – Something Else (and credits)
17/02/2014
Ron Elkman is a photographer for ABC Miami who attends numerous events photographing tv, sport, political and musical events. He recently took some stunning photos at the Alan Parsons Project & The Orchestra gig at Hard Rock Live, Seminole Resort, Florida and these can be viewed at Ron's website and also at Local 10.
Ron Elkman is a photographer for ABC Miami who attends numerous events photographing tv, sport, political and musical events. He recently took some stunning photos at the Alan Parsons Project & The Orchestra gig at Hard Rock Live, Seminole Resort, Florida and these can be viewed at Ron's website and also at Local 10.
16/02/2014
Concert in the Park : Southend Priory Park -: 28th June 2014
Louis Clark will be conducting a Hooked on Classics programme, playing many of the hits from this legendary album series with a Proms finish and firework finale!
On June 28th 2014 The Concert in the Park is returning to Priory Park after a two-year break.
Launched in 1996, the concert ran for 15 consecutive years before a congested summer schedule in 2012 and financial concerns forced a two-year break. Concert chairman, Roger Allan, said: “We all feel more assured about the financial situation now and are delighted to be putting it on again."
The concert will feature the English Pops Orchestra playing a mix of hits from the legendary Hooked on Classics album series plus some additional music from films, the Beatles and a very special ELO hit arranged specially for tonight’s show!
PLUS of course the Last Night of the Proms finale. Regularly attracting crowds of up to 5,000, the concert is fun for the whole family and raises vital money for charities, including Southend Hospital.
What should we bring?
Food and drink
Tables and chairs
Lanterns (no naked flames!)
Flags to wave! These can be bought on site.
Jacket or Sweater (after the sun sets, the temperature can drop and you'll be happy to have it).
Mobile phones are a good way to help you find your friends.
Blankets to sit on (a bin bag makes a great liner between your blanket and the moist ground and you can leave your rubbish in it after the concert).
A camera. Note that filming of the performance is prohibited.
Are there car parking facilities?
There is ample car parking space but it can take a little time to empty the car park after the performance. we ask you to be patient.
Will there be food?
Yes, this year we will have new concessionaires.
Is alcohol allowed at the Concerts?
Of course! You can bring your own or purchase wine and beer on site.
Are large umbrellas & gazebos allowed at the Concerts?
No.
Are barbecues allowed?
No. Because of safety considerations no barbecues or naked flames are allowed on site.
Check out the Concert In The Park Website and Music in Southend Blog for further updates.
Concert in the Park : Southend Priory Park -: 28th June 2014
Louis Clark will be conducting a Hooked on Classics programme, playing many of the hits from this legendary album series with a Proms finish and firework finale!
On June 28th 2014 The Concert in the Park is returning to Priory Park after a two-year break.
Launched in 1996, the concert ran for 15 consecutive years before a congested summer schedule in 2012 and financial concerns forced a two-year break. Concert chairman, Roger Allan, said: “We all feel more assured about the financial situation now and are delighted to be putting it on again."
The concert will feature the English Pops Orchestra playing a mix of hits from the legendary Hooked on Classics album series plus some additional music from films, the Beatles and a very special ELO hit arranged specially for tonight’s show!
PLUS of course the Last Night of the Proms finale. Regularly attracting crowds of up to 5,000, the concert is fun for the whole family and raises vital money for charities, including Southend Hospital.
What should we bring?
Food and drink
Tables and chairs
Lanterns (no naked flames!)
Flags to wave! These can be bought on site.
Jacket or Sweater (after the sun sets, the temperature can drop and you'll be happy to have it).
Mobile phones are a good way to help you find your friends.
Blankets to sit on (a bin bag makes a great liner between your blanket and the moist ground and you can leave your rubbish in it after the concert).
A camera. Note that filming of the performance is prohibited.
Are there car parking facilities?
There is ample car parking space but it can take a little time to empty the car park after the performance. we ask you to be patient.
Will there be food?
Yes, this year we will have new concessionaires.
Is alcohol allowed at the Concerts?
Of course! You can bring your own or purchase wine and beer on site.
Are large umbrellas & gazebos allowed at the Concerts?
No.
Are barbecues allowed?
No. Because of safety considerations no barbecues or naked flames are allowed on site.
Check out the Concert In The Park Website and Music in Southend Blog for further updates.
14/02/2014
The Orchestra have announced lots of gigs for 2014, confirmed dates so far include three dates here in the U.K. (www.theorchestra.net/gigs.html).
February 28th - The Plug, Sheffield (Ticket Details).
March 1st - Fat Sams, Dundee (Ticket Details).
March 2nd - The Ironworks, Inverness (Ticket Details).
The Orchestra have announced lots of gigs for 2014, confirmed dates so far include three dates here in the U.K. (www.theorchestra.net/gigs.html).
February 28th - The Plug, Sheffield (Ticket Details).
March 1st - Fat Sams, Dundee (Ticket Details).
March 2nd - The Ironworks, Inverness (Ticket Details).
19/01/2014
Phil Bates is extremely busy touring around Europe with his ELO Klassik, Acoustic Trio and Music of ELO ventures during 2014. But during March he returns to the U.K. to for some solo gigs and also with his Acoustic Trio (Phil Bates, Jo Bates and Susanne Filep) who perform E.L.O. tracks and much more.
March 13th - Phil Bates solo, Leek Acoustic Club, Leek, Staffs (Ticket Details).
March 15th - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Keys Restaurant, Huddersfield (Ticket Details).
March 16th - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Robin 2, Bilston (Ticket Details).
March 18th - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Middleton Hall nr Tamworth (Ticket Details).
March 20th - Phil Bates solo, Ruthin All-Styles Music Club, Clwyd (Ticket Details).
March 22nd - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Baskerville Arms, Clyro, Hay-On-Wye (Ticket Details).
Phil Bates is extremely busy touring around Europe with his ELO Klassik, Acoustic Trio and Music of ELO ventures during 2014. But during March he returns to the U.K. to for some solo gigs and also with his Acoustic Trio (Phil Bates, Jo Bates and Susanne Filep) who perform E.L.O. tracks and much more.
March 13th - Phil Bates solo, Leek Acoustic Club, Leek, Staffs (Ticket Details).
March 15th - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Keys Restaurant, Huddersfield (Ticket Details).
March 16th - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Robin 2, Bilston (Ticket Details).
March 18th - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Middleton Hall nr Tamworth (Ticket Details).
March 20th - Phil Bates solo, Ruthin All-Styles Music Club, Clwyd (Ticket Details).
March 22nd - Phil Bates ELO Acoustic Trio, Baskerville Arms, Clyro, Hay-On-Wye (Ticket Details).
19/01/2014 (Updated 23/01/2014)
The Orchestra have announced lots of gigs for 2014, confirmed dates so far include three dates here in the U.K. (www.theorchestra.net/gigs.html).
February 28th - The Plug, Sheffield (Ticket Details).
March 1st - Fat Sams, Dundee (Ticket Details).
March 2nd - The Ironworks, Inverness (Ticket Details).
The Orchestra have announced lots of gigs for 2014, confirmed dates so far include three dates here in the U.K. (www.theorchestra.net/gigs.html).
February 28th - The Plug, Sheffield (Ticket Details).
March 1st - Fat Sams, Dundee (Ticket Details).
March 2nd - The Ironworks, Inverness (Ticket Details).
25/11/2013
The Big Christmas Reunion single, a cover of the Roy Wood & Wizzard classic, 'I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday will be released in the U.K. on December 16th.
The Big Christmas Reunion single, a cover of the Roy Wood & Wizzard classic, 'I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday will be released in the U.K. on December 16th.
25/11/2013
THE MOVE - On Tour 2014 - 35 Live Concerts
MARCH
12 YARDBIRDS, GRIMSBY 07771 520374
14 PLOUGH ARTS CENTRE, TORRINGTON 01805 624624
18 THE JAZZ CAFÉ, CAMDEN, LONDON 0844 847 2514
20 THE OCTAGON, KEIGHLEY 01274 562252
23 BLACKFRIARS ARTS CENTRE, BOSTON 01205 363108
27 THE GLOBE, CARDIFF 07590 471888
28 MARR'S BAR, WORCESTER 01905 613336
29 BANBURY CLUB – MEMBERS ONLY
APRIL
6 EMPIRE THEATRE, HALSTEAD 07778 025490
7 KINGS THEATRE, PORTSMOUTH 02392 828282
8 ARTS CENTRE, SWINDON 01793 614837
9 BOOTLEGGERS, KENDAL, CUMBRIA 01539 723824
11 THE ROADHOUSE, BIRMINGHAM 0121 246 2273
12 VIVAZ VENUE, SCARBOROUGH 01723 368222
27 THE TROPIC, RUISLIP 020 8707 2256
30 BEECHWOOD CLUB, MIDDLESBOROUGH 01642 316065
MAY
2 BACKSTAGE @ THE GREEN, SCOTLAND 01577 863467
3 MARSDEN MECHANICS HALL, HUDDERSFIELD 01484 844587
14 THE DIAMOND, SUTTON IN ASHFIELD 01623 456617
15 THE MUSICIAN, LEICESTER 01162 510080
16 TOUCHLINE, HULLBRIDGE, ESSEX 07775 761406
17 HALF MOON, PUTNEY, LONDON 0208 780 9383
19 SHANKLIN THEATRE, ISLE OF WIGHT 01983 868000
22 THE HORNS, WATFORD 01923 225020
23 THE CROWN, NANTWICH 01270 625283
24 THE PORTISHEAD, BRISTOL 01275 842428
25 THE BROOK, SOUTHAMPTON 02380 555366
29 THE BEAVERWOOD CLUB, CHISLEHURST 0208 300 1385
30 THE BOOM BOOM CLUB, SUTTON, SURREY 0208 761 9078
31 ARTS CENTRE, SHAFTESBURY 01747828397
JUNE
5 ROBIN 2, BILSTON, WOLVERHAMPTON 01902 401211
6 THE RAILWAY, BOLTON 01204 306450
7 FIBBERS, YORK 01904 651250
20 WAREHOUSE 13, WAKEFIELD 01924 724523
21 THE BRINDLEY, RUNCORN 0151 907 8360
THE MOVE - On Tour 2014 - 35 Live Concerts
MARCH
12 YARDBIRDS, GRIMSBY 07771 520374
14 PLOUGH ARTS CENTRE, TORRINGTON 01805 624624
18 THE JAZZ CAFÉ, CAMDEN, LONDON 0844 847 2514
20 THE OCTAGON, KEIGHLEY 01274 562252
23 BLACKFRIARS ARTS CENTRE, BOSTON 01205 363108
27 THE GLOBE, CARDIFF 07590 471888
28 MARR'S BAR, WORCESTER 01905 613336
29 BANBURY CLUB – MEMBERS ONLY
APRIL
6 EMPIRE THEATRE, HALSTEAD 07778 025490
7 KINGS THEATRE, PORTSMOUTH 02392 828282
8 ARTS CENTRE, SWINDON 01793 614837
9 BOOTLEGGERS, KENDAL, CUMBRIA 01539 723824
11 THE ROADHOUSE, BIRMINGHAM 0121 246 2273
12 VIVAZ VENUE, SCARBOROUGH 01723 368222
27 THE TROPIC, RUISLIP 020 8707 2256
30 BEECHWOOD CLUB, MIDDLESBOROUGH 01642 316065
MAY
2 BACKSTAGE @ THE GREEN, SCOTLAND 01577 863467
3 MARSDEN MECHANICS HALL, HUDDERSFIELD 01484 844587
14 THE DIAMOND, SUTTON IN ASHFIELD 01623 456617
15 THE MUSICIAN, LEICESTER 01162 510080
16 TOUCHLINE, HULLBRIDGE, ESSEX 07775 761406
17 HALF MOON, PUTNEY, LONDON 0208 780 9383
19 SHANKLIN THEATRE, ISLE OF WIGHT 01983 868000
22 THE HORNS, WATFORD 01923 225020
23 THE CROWN, NANTWICH 01270 625283
24 THE PORTISHEAD, BRISTOL 01275 842428
25 THE BROOK, SOUTHAMPTON 02380 555366
29 THE BEAVERWOOD CLUB, CHISLEHURST 0208 300 1385
30 THE BOOM BOOM CLUB, SUTTON, SURREY 0208 761 9078
31 ARTS CENTRE, SHAFTESBURY 01747828397
JUNE
5 ROBIN 2, BILSTON, WOLVERHAMPTON 01902 401211
6 THE RAILWAY, BOLTON 01204 306450
7 FIBBERS, YORK 01904 651250
20 WAREHOUSE 13, WAKEFIELD 01924 724523
21 THE BRINDLEY, RUNCORN 0151 907 8360
25/11/2013
The Orchestra - 'Evil Woman' and 'Rock N Roll Is King' live at the bands final gig of their 2013 Eastern Europe tour in Krakow, Poland on 18th November 2013.
The Orchestra - 'Evil Woman' and 'Rock N Roll Is King' live at the bands final gig of their 2013 Eastern Europe tour in Krakow, Poland on 18th November 2013.