ELO BEATLES FOREVER

RECOMMENDED: THE MOVE: LIVE AT THE FILLMORE 1969

2012-02-14T22:47:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! You could call it good timing that: "The Move: Live At The Fillmore 1969" as pre-released by RightRecordings.com [#RIGHT116] duly arrived in the post today ... to on Valentines Day!

This 2CD; 14 track collection of the long lost recordings by: 'The Move' restored; remastered and released in memory of Carl Wayne under the auspices of Sue Wayne gives the listener a real glimpse of what raw power 'The Move' [before their Jeff Lynne phase] were as a live act as we are "Looking On" from Yours Truly 2012.

As well as a ten [10] minute audio recollection by Bev Bevan of that first - and last - US tour by: 'The Move'; there are surprisingly varied song writing credits included within this release. You will find those class Roy Wood compositions: "Hello Susie"; "I Can Hear the Grass Grow"and two [2] performances of : "Cherry Blossom Clinic Revisited" [over 7 minutes long each!] here as well as covers of Todd Rundgren [specifically the 'Nazz' era]; Tom Paxton; Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil amongst others [the latter who would share the "Joyride" OST credits in 1977 with Jeff Lynne and ELO].

Track listing: CD1

"Open My Eyes" [6:55]; "Don't Make My Baby Blue" [5:53]; "Cherry Blossom Clinic Revisited" [7:45]; "The Last Thing On My Mind" [8:37]; "I Can Hear the Grass Grow" [10:03]

Track listing: CD2

"Fields Of People" [16:59]; "Goin' Back" [5:57]; "Hello Susie" [6:22]; "Under The Ice" [14:15]; "Introduction" [0:16]; "Don't Make My Baby Blue" [5:30]; "Cherry Blossom Clinic Revisited" [7:31]; "The Last Thing On My Mind" [8:08]; "The Move's 1969 USA tour recalled by Bev Bevan" [10:42]

The whole album oozes the rich vocal texture of Carl Wayne; the sublime guitar work and multi-instrumentalism of Roy Wood; the power drumming of Bev Bevan and driving bass of Rick Price. The twelve 12] CD booklet is attractive; informative and well researched. My personal highlights have to be: "Hello Susie"; "I Can Hear The Grass Grow" and both cuts of "Cherry Blossom Clinic Revisited". The whole album is truly an experience. It really is difficult to write more about this impressive glimpse into pre-ELO history without heartily recommending that you buy it and listen to it your good selves!

You can still order this excellent release directly from RightRecordings.com thus as pre-orders now appear to been despatched and/or you can still pre-order against the 'official' CD release date of Monday 5th March 2012 from amazon.co.uk thus:

www.rightrecordings.com/the-move-live-at-fillmore

www.amazon.co.uk/the-move-live-at-fillmore

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommends and fully endorses: "Live At The Fillmore 1969" by 'The Move' to all music fans who like the: ELO; 'Beatles' and 'Move' genres in particular.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 14-Feb-2012

INTRODUCING: RIVER CITY PORTRAIT

2012-02-12T12:20:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Did you know that the duo formerly known as: "Groucutt and Haynes" are now a group named: "RIVER CITY PORTRAIT"? Yes, the dazzling duo have been joined by Robin's brother Steve Groucutt on bass guitar. This seems to me to be most apt as we see the Groucutt clan following on in the steps of the late, great and much-missed Kelly Groucutt, especially as we approach the third anniversary of his passing. Whilst we await the unveiling the groups new percussionist, the band have been busy working on a new album; a new web site and a new single entitled: "Living On The Inside" which can be viewed below or at: ELOBF @ YouTube:

An acoustic version of another new RCP song: "Made It Through The Last Time" has also been made available on their web site for you to listen to as well as the aforementioned new single: "Living On The Inside" - which will be available to download from tomorrow [Monday 13th February 2012] both from: "RIVER CITY PORTRAIT" and 'SoundCloud'. This does indeed looks like another exciting project for ELOBF to support and monitor the progress of thereof.

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommend and endorse: "RIVER CITY PORTRAIT" to all music fans who like the: ELO; 'Move' and 'Beatles' genres in particular.

Until next "Time" in the ELO universe ... KJS ... 12-Feb-2012

RECOMMENDED: THE DUCKWORTH LEWIS METHOD

2012-02-11T22:30:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Have you ever meant to buy an album but didn't at the time and when you finally did you asked yourself that immortal question: "Why?"

Well folks, that is how it is with this very belated post regarding this great cricket themed album from 2009; the eponymously entitled: "The Duckworth Lewis Method" [DLM] who are Thomas Walsh [from: 'Pugwash'] and Neil Hannon [from: 'The Divine Comedy']. I remember DLM doing an interview on BBC Breakfast News back in 2009 promoting the album and they caught my attention then. Hence; I decided - after my recent review of : "The Olympus Sound" by 'Pugwash' and the ensuing ELOBF interview with Thomas Walsh - to buy this album as well as a couple of tickets for the 'Pugwash' gig at The Borderline in London on Saturday 31st March.

This twelve [12] track homage to the game of cricket by two great musicians wholly influenced by the music of Jeff Lynne and ELO was literally pipped to the "Ivor Novello Award" in 2010 by Paolo Nutini and is more than worthy of any music industry recognition

Track listing: [1] "The Coin Toss"; [2] "The Age of Revolution"; [3] "Gentlemen and Players"; [4] "The Sweet Spot"; [5] "Jiggery Pokery"; [6] "Mason on the Boundary"; [7] "Rain Stops Play"; [8] "Meeting Mr. Miandad"; [9] "The Nightwatchman"; [10] "Flatten The Hay"; [11] "Test Match Special"; [12] "The End of the Over"

With the ELO influence apparent in not a few tracks, most notably: "The Nightwatchman", one can hear sweet music within this recording reminiscent of: 'The Beatles'; and 'The Byrds' amongst others. The whole CD could be termed a concept album but it is more than that on many levels. The love of the game of the cricket espoused by Thomas and Neil is intermingled with catchy, foot-tapping musical constructions that are an aural delight. The good news is that you can still purchase: "The Duckworth Lewis Method" for just £4.49 from amazon.co.uk here:

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Duckworth-Lewis-Method

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommend and endorse: "The Duckworth Lewis Method" to all music fans who like the: ELO; 'Move' and 'Beatles' genres in particular. My entertaining interview with Thomas Walsh for ELOBF will be published soon in time for this exciting release.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 11-Feb-2012

RECOMMENDED: THE OLYMPUS SOUND

2012-02-09T22:21:00.003Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Back in November 2011; I reviewed the latest release by that great Dublin based band - who are heavily influenced by Jeff Lynne and ELO - namely: "The Olympus Sound" by PUGWASH:

ELOBF REVIEW: THE OLYMPUS SOUND

At that time; I reviewed the original Irish CD release on: 1969 Records but now the UK release has been confirmed for Monday 19th March on Lojinx Records. This 2012 edition is be available both on vinyl [with the original track listing] and in an expanded CD format which includes three [3] additional bonus tracks: "Heal Me"; "Happy Again" and "Waltz With Me". Pre-orders are being taken by amazon.co.uk [amongst others] who are offering the LP @ £14.39 each and the CD @ £9.64 each thus:

THE OLYMPUS SOUND [VINYL]

THE OLYMPUS SOUND [CD]

PUGWASH will be playing at: The Borderline in London on Saturday 31st March to celebrate the UK release of: "The Olympus Sound". Tickets are priced at just £10 each and are still available thus:

http://www.hmvtickets.com/events/5361?REFID=MAMA_BORDERLINE
http://www.ticketweb.co.uk/Pugwash 310312

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommend and endorse: PUGWASH and their latest album: "The Olympus Sound" to all music fans who like the: ELO; 'Move' and 'Beatles' genres in particular. My entertaining interview with Thomas Walsh for ELOBF will be published soon in time for this exciting release.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 09-Feb-2012

HERE IS THE NEWS [9]

2012-02-08T21:48:00.001Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! There seems to be a lot of activity going on the ELOBF [and related artistes] universe:

[1] How the Brits Rocked America featuring Jeff Lynne and Bev Bevan

Here in the UK; the BBC are currently broadcasting an excellent three [3] part documentary series entitled: "How The Brits Rocked America: Go West" with those episodes titled: [1] "How The West Was Won"; [2] "Stairway To Heaven" and [3] "We're The Kids In America". The second of those programmes was broadcast last Friday [3rd February] and featured short interviews with Bev Bevan recalling trans-American touring with: 'The Move' and the ELO spaceship as well as Jeff Lynne recalling his initial experiences of Los Angeles [and that spaceship!] with ELO. Our friends over at: ELO Discovery.com have also recently posted this four [4] minute long YouTube summary of the above clips:

[2] Debra Dee's Roy Wood Exhibition
Regular visitors to ELOBF will be aware of Debra Dee's Exhibition of Roy Wood Portraits which runs at: St. Pauls Gallery; Birmingham up until 23rd February. Fellow attendee Martin Kinch - who is Chief Medical Officer over at: Cherry Blossom Clinic - has just just published a near seven [7] minute montage of footage from this wonderful event:

[3] ELO Again!

News has reached ELOBF Towers of another ELO tribute act who are called: "ELO Again" and appear to be based in South Wales. ELOBF continues to support ELO tribute bands whose ethos is to perform; interpret and keep the ELO sound alive and live! So - whilst we await details of gigs at the time of writing - this is what the band are saying about themselves on their web site at: ELO Again:

"This group of talented musicians have performed on many TV spectaculars including: "Top of the Pops" and have toured extensively around the globe in productions that have seen them perform to sell-out audiences in New York; Nashville; South Africa; Hong Kong; Japan; Singapore; Thailand; Dubai; Egypt; Morocco; France; Spain; Portugal; Malta; Switzerland; Germany; Scandinavia; Latvia and Russia. They have performed over 1,200 shows to date including theatre venues in the UK plus TV and radio appearances ..." [end quote]

It promises to be an interesting and fruitful year in the ELOBF [and related] universe. There are an array of exciting gigs to look forward to such as: Hooked On Classics - Live plus the belated 2CD release of: The Move - Live at The Fillmore - 1969; the forthcoming 180g vinyl re-releases of: "A New World Record" and "Out Of The Blue" by 'Music On Vinyl'; EMI's 40th anniversary LP/2CD edition of ELO debut album: "The Electric Light Orchestra" - and not a few others!

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 08-Feb-2012

ELOBF GIG GUIDE [8]

2012-02-05T18:24:00.006Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Winter into Spring 2012 continues to shape up as a great gig fest for ELO and Beatles related gigs here in the Midlands of England. Here are some selected dates for you to peruse and consider your attendance at:

Trevor Burton

Trevor Burton will be performing regularly at various venues in the Midlands with: "The Trevor Burton Band". Catch Trevor @ 'The Actress and Bishop' in Birmingham on most Wednesday nights too:

http://www.thetrevorburtonband.co.uk/

Thursday 23rd February 2012

"The ELO Experience" @ 'The Assembly Rooms'; Derby

Tickets: £16.50 each

http://www.derbylive.co.uk/Public_Event.aspx?ID=1312

Saturday 25th February 2012

"The ELO Experience" @ 'The Palace Theatre'; Redditch

Tickets: £18.00 each

http://www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk/shows+on/25-02-2012/THE+ELO+EXPERIENCE

Thursday 1st March 2012

"The ELO Experience" @ 'The Swan Theatre'; Worcester

Tickets: £16.50 each

http://www.worcesterlive.co.uk/events_review.asp?eid=453056702

Friday 9th March 2012 [a]

"The Abbey Road Experience" @ 'The Gatehouse Theatre'; Stafford

Tickets: £12.00 each

http://www.staffordgatehousetheatre.co.uk/whats-on/music/Abbey-Road-Experience

Friday 9th March 2012 [aa]

"The ELO Experience" @ 'Theatre Severn'; Shrewsbury

Tickets: £18.00 each

http://www.theatresevern.co.uk/WhatsOn_focus.asp?ShowId=874&sC=page10

Friday 23rd March 2012

"The Abbey Road Experience" @ 'The Feathers Inn'; Lichfield

Tickets: Free

http://feathersinn.co.uk/?page_id=8&yr=2012&month=3&dy=

Saturday 24th March 2012

"The Abbey Road Experience" @ 'The Horse and Jockey'; Walsall Wood

Tickets: Free

http://www.marstonstaverns.co.uk/Walsall/HorseandJockey

Sunday 25th March 2012

"The Abbey Road Experience" @ 'The Roadhouse'; Stirchley

Tickets: £5.00 each

http://www.theroadhousebirmingham.com/?q=node/322

Monday 2nd April 2012

Judie Tzuke @ 'Huntingdon Hall'; Worcester

Tickets: £22.50 each

http://www.worcesterlive.co.uk/events_review.asp?eid=453056715

Friday 13th April 2012

"Band On The Runn" @ 'The Kingfisher'; Kingswinford

Tickets: £5 each

http://bandontherunn.com/gigs.html

Saturday 21st April 2012

"The ELO Experience" @ 'The Wulfrun Hall'; Wolverhampton

Tickets: £18.50 each

http://www.wolvescivic.co.uk/index.asp?loc=whatsonshow&woid=101241

Sunday 27th May 2012

"Hooked On Classics - Live" @ 'The New Alexander Theatre'; Birmingham

Tickets: from £23.50 to £56.00 each

http://www.atgtickets.com/Louis-Clarks-Hooked-on-Classics-Tickets/242/1955/

"The BeatBack Brothers"

Those "BeatBack Brothers" who feature Craig Whale and Adam Willetts from: "Band On The Runn" will be performing regularly at various venues in the West Midlands and Black Country thus:

http://www.myspace.com/beatbackbrothers

"The Lemuns"

"The Lemuns" who feature Ian Hammond and [from time to time] Dave Cottle from: "Band On The Runn" will also be performing regularly at various venues in the West Midlands and beyond thus:

http://www.myspace.com/thelemuns

"Paul Parker and All the Right Friends"
"Paul Parker And All The Right Friends" will also be performing regularly at various venues in Shropshire and beyond thus:
http://www.paulparkerandfriends.co.uk/Gigs-2012.html

All of the above artistes and shows are endorsed and recommended by: ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF]. Undoubtedly, I shall be updating and modifying this post over the next few months up until the end of May as new events come up. . I'm also hoping to interview some of the above artistes in the coming months for ELOBF. It would be great to make your acquaintance at one or three of the above gigs. See you there?

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 05-Feb-2012

RECOMMENDED: SYMPHONIC BEATLES - LIVE

2012-02-04T13:29:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Louis Clark is already busy as an active member of: 'The Orchestra' [former members of ELO and ELO Part II] and because he is bringing his world renowned: "Hooked On Classics" genre back to life this Spring; as covered in this previous ELOBF article from Christmas Day 2011:

But the ELO string arranger and orchestral composer now has another musical project that he is bringing back to the live stage this year too. "Louis Clark's 25th Anniversary Symphonic Beatles - Live" will soon be gracing the stage at a theatre near you soon too. To this writer; this looks like another fantastic opportunity to hear the natural fusion of Beatles song craft [intertwined with those lush orchestral arrangements] that was the original inspiration for: 'The Electric Light Orchestra [ELO]':

http://www.beatlephonic.com/

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] fully recommends and endorses Louis Clark as well as both his: "Hooked On Classics - LIVE" and "Symphonic Beatles - Live" projects to all music fans who enjoy the ELO; 'Move' and Beatles music genres. See you there?

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 04-Feb-2012

REVIEW: DEBRA DEE'S EXHIBITION OF ROY WOOD ART

2012-02-03T19:56:00.001Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! The last time that I bumped into music legend Roy Wood - co-founder of: 'The Move' and ELO as well as founder of 'Wizzard' - was at the 50th birthday bash in Wolverhampton for the much-missed Kelly Groucutt back in September 1995. Hence I was so very appreciative of the invitation that I received from Australian artiste Debra Dee for the private viewing and opening of her much anticipated exhibition of Roy Wood portraits at: St. Pauls Gallery in Birmingham last night - as mentioned in my previous ELOBF blog:

It was also great to touch base with: Jim Onslow [former band mate of Bev Bevan in: 'Denny Laine and The Diplomats' - amongst other notable 'Brumbeat' bands - and a fine solo artiste in his own right] who took the above photograph of Roy; myself and my daughter Rebekah]; Martin Kinch of: Cherry Blossom Clinic [who also displayed a selection of his fantastic Roy Wood; 'Move'; ELO and related memorabilia] and the inimitable Jeff Cooper too. I would like also extend my thanks to Gemma Wilson [Events Manageress] and Symon Bland [MD] at the gallery for their time and the tremendous courtesy extended to us during our visit. Look out for further news pertaining to ELOBF and St. Pauls Gallery in the near future.

This marvellous collection of Roy Wood centred art - which runs for just three [3] weeks up until Thursday 23rd February - features eight [8] paintings that are a credit to the talent and confidence of Debra Dee and her spotlight on one of THE musical icons of the UK - if not the world. ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] is proud to promote; support and endorse the artistry of Debra Dee. Please make the effort to visit the exhibition and support: Roy Wood; Debra Dee and: St. Pauls Gallery. See you there?

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 03-Feb-2012

ELOBF THIRD ANNIVERSARY TODAY!

2012-02-02T14:01:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Today [Thursday 2nd February 2011] is the third anniversary of the birth of my blog: ELO BEATLES FOREVER [ELOBF] .

Every visit is personally appreciated. And as we hurtle towards 100,000 visitors; may I take this opportunity to thank each and every visitor and reader and follower of this blog for taking the time to visit ELOBF and may you long continue to do so!

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 02-Feb-2012

CAUGHT LIVE [4]: BAND ON THE RUNN

2012-01-28T13:24:00.001Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! #300. I knew as soon I arrived at: 'The Kingfisher' in Kingswinford yesterday on a dark and cold night and was greeted by Hayley Parsons decked out in her resplendent dress that this latest gig by: 'Band On The Runn' [BOTR] was going to be a success! And indeed it was folks!

I drove the ten [10] miles or so to this BOTR performance with Christian '[July 2nd 1644]' Evans and Geoff Cook and we were not disappointed with yet another inspired and professional performance by this great Midlands based act who feature Craig Whale; Ian Hammond; Adam Willetts and Dave Cottle and who accurately reproduce - LIVE - the whole musical career of : Sir Paul McCartney with a specific focus on his time with: 'Wings'.

Without a doubt; every time that I go and see this band they improve folks. Superb drum work; keyboard wizardry; great guitar craft together with booming bass and driving vocals. The bands performance of their namesake song: "Band On The Run" and their cover of: "The Long And Winding Road" were sublime. But there was so much more to the BOTR set list than I can put in writing. You need to go see 'em yourself folks - especially as they are now starting to get local media coverage [see above].

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] endorse and recommend: 'Band On The Runn' to all music fans who like the ELO; The Move and The Beatles music genres in particular. The band are now taking bookings for gigs via their web site at: BAND ON THE RUNN or via mobile 'phone on: [07538] 102177.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 28-Jan-2012

FOLLOW ME? [3]

2012-01-25T17:19:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! To those of you who are regular visitors to: ELO BEATLES FOREVER [also known as ELOBF]; please consider 'following' my blog at:

ELO BEATLES FOREVER

You can then keep up-to-date with my latest postings et al. I'm thrilled by every visit; thankful for every comment and I value your feedback! Follow me?

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 25-Jan-2012

RECOMMENDED: ELECTRIC LIGHT ORCHESTRA [40th Anniversary Edition] [UPDATED]

2012-01-24T22:13:00.003Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Doubtless in the last few days you may have seen a fair few ELO fan sites and blogs publishing the preliminary details of the forthcoming '40th Anniversary Edition' of that seminal debut ELO release: "The Electric Light Orchestra" [also known as: "No Answer" in the United States] by EMI here in the UK. This must be the 10,538th re-issue of this material ... so I've waited a little while to post this blog whilst I check out one or three sources in order to collate as much pre-release information as possible! Our friends over at: Face The Music have provided this overview of the release whist we await pre-ordering information:

"To celebrate the 40th anniversary of ELO's first album 'Electric Light Orchestra', EMI are releasing both a CD/DVD and a 180 Gram Vinyl version on March 12th, 2012! The '40th Anniversary Edition' CD features the original album and has six [6] bonus tracks. The accompanying DVD features a Quad to 4.1 DTS 96/24 [taking the original 1973 Quad and adding a sub to create the 4.1] and a flat transfer of the original stereo analogue master from 1971 in 96kHz/24 bit PCM stereo. Sleeve notes for this release were written by Dom Lawson and the original "10538 Overture" promo clip is included as as a special bonus! The vinyl release will feature the original analogue stereo master." [end quote]

Whilst HMV @ Japan appear to be offering the release as an import on or about the 27th February [source: elodiscovery.com]; ELOBF has discovered that amazon.de [Germany] are offering this two [2] disc CD/DVD release on 24th February at the attractive pre-order price of: €14.99 [which equates to just approx. £12.50 at the time of writing] for these track listings:

CD #1

[1] 10538 Overture [2001 Remaster]

[2] Look At Me Now [2001 Remaster]

[3] Nellie Takes Her Bow [2001 Remaster]

[4] Battle Of Marston Moor [July 2nd 1644] [2001 Remaster]

[5] First Movement [Jumping Biz] [2001 Remaster]

[6] Mr. Radio [2001 Remaster]

[7] Manhattan Rumble [49th Street Massacre] [2001 Remaster]

[8] Queen Of The Hours [2001 Remaster]

[9] Whisper In The Night [2001 Remaster]

[10] 10538 Overture [Acetate]

[11] Mr. Radio [Take #9 Recorded 18/11/70]

[12] Nellie Takes Her Bow [Alternate Mix]

[13] Whisper In The Night [Take #1/Take #2 Edit Recorded 28/4/71]

[14] Mr Radio [7'' Single Version]

[15] 10538 Overture [for 'Top Of The Pops']

CD #2

[1] 10538 Overture [Quad To 4.1 DTS/96/24; Dolby Digital] [2012 Remaster]

[2] Look At Me Now [Quad To 4.1 DTS/96/24; Dolby Digital] [2012 Remaster]

[3] Nellie Takes Her Bow [Quad To 4.1 DTS/96/24; Dolby Digital] [2012 Remaster]

[4] Battle Of Marston Moor [Quad To 4.1 DTS/96/24; Dolby Digital] [2012 Remaster]

[5] First Movement [Quad To 4.1 DTS/96/24; Dolby Digital] [2012 Remaster]

[6] Mr. Radio [Quad To 4.1 DTS/96/24; Dolby Digital] [2012 Remaster]

[7] Manhattan Rumble [Quad To 4.1 DTS/96/24; Dolby Digital] [2012 Remaster]

[8] Queen Of The Hours [Quad To 4.1 DTS/96/24; Dolby Digital] [2012 Remaster]

[9] Whisper In The Night [Quad To 4.1 DTS/96/24; Dolby Digital] [2012 Remaster]

[10] 10538 Overture

[11] Look At Me Now

[12] Nellie Takes Her Bow

[13] Battle Of Marston Moor [July 2nd 1644]

[14] First Movement [Jumping Biz]

[15] Mr. Radio

[16] Manhattan Rumble [49th Street Massacre]

[17] Queen Of The Hours

[18] Whisper In The Night

[19] 10538 Overture [Original Promo Clip] [2012 - Remaster]

STOP PRESS: Latest Release News
It appears that the UK release date has now been confirmed for Monday 12th March as both the CD/DVD and vinyl LP editions are now being offered by amazon.co.uk who are now taking pre-orders attractively priced at £11.10 each and £17.93 each respectively thus:

Electric Light Orchestra - First Light CD/DVD - amazon.co.uk
Electric Light Orchestra - First Light LP - amazon.co.uk

Hence, whilst we await details of the UK release and pre-order information; this looks like an interesting release for the ELO completist especially when considered with the imminent re-release on vinyl of that classic 1974 ELO album: "Eldorado" [ELOBF: RETURN TO VINYL: ELDORADO].

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 24-Jan-2012

CAUGHT LIVE [3]: BAND ON THE RUNN

2012-01-21T13:15:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! I ventured out [again!] last night to go see one of those local bands in the ELO and Beatles universe who I thoroughly enjoy promoting and hearing: 'Band On The Runn' [BOTR] - who have previously featured on ELOBF thus:

INTRODUCING: BAND ON THE RUNN

RECOMMENDED: BAND ON THE RUNN

CAUGHT LIVE [1]: BAND ON THE RUNN

CAUGHT LIVE [2]: BAND ON THE RUNN

COMING UP: BAND ON THE RUNN

BOTR are Craig Whale; Ian Hammond; Adam Willetts and Dave Cottle and last night they performed a tremendous set list at the likeable Tackeroo venue at Hednesford near Cannock in tribute to the whole musical career of : Paul McCartney with a specific focus on his time with: 'Wings'.

Yours Truly KJS was joined in the audience yesterday with Pete Dicks [see above] - founder and broadcaster of that long running worldwide phenomenon known as: Beatles and Beyond Radi o [BBR]. We were joined by Peter March [a local; regular listener to BBR] and all three of us were mightily impressed by this relatively new band and the degree of professionalism and accuracy that they produced recreating the 50 year career of: Sir Paul McCartney live on stage. Highlights [for me] were: "The Long and Winding Road"; "My Love" and "C Moon" amongst many others.

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] endorse and recommend: 'Band On The Runn' to all music fans who like the ELO; The Move and The Beatles music genres in particular. The band are now taking bookings for gigs via their web site at: BAND ON THE RUNN or via mobile 'phone on: [07538] 102177. You can catch the band again next Friday 27th January 2012 at 'The Kingfisher' in Kingswinford in south Staffordshire - with tickets priced at just £10 each. See you there?

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 21-Jan-2012

RECOMMENDED: THE ABBEY ROAD EXPERIENCE

2012-01-18T22:37:00.001Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Regular visitors to ELOBF will doubtless be aware that back on 10th December 2011; I posted this blog about Phil Bates' new musical project entitled: 'The Abbey Road Experience':

HERE IS THE NEWS: THE ABBEY ROAD EXPERIENCE

The ethos of the band is to cover live - note by note - the whole of : 'The Beatles' final seminal 1969 album: "Abbey Road" including - of course - those classics: "Come Together"; "Here Comes The Sun" and "Something" .

The band also consist of two [2] current members of that superb 'Eagles' tribute band: 'Desperado' [http://www.desperadolive.co.uk] in Chris Brighton and Steve James plus ex-'Climax Blues Band' founder Derek Holt and latest addition Pete Hughes. Their new web site has just been launched and contains details of their first six [6] concerts in March 2012 [with more to follow!] wherein they intend to both gauge the amount of interest in the project and also develop their act. Here is the detail of those first few gigs for your perusal:

Thursday 8th March: Academy Theatre; Birdwell; Barnsley. Tel: [01226] 744442

Friday 9th March: Gatehouse Theatre; Stafford. Tel: [01785] 253595

Friday 16th March: The Diamond; Sutton-in-Ashfield. Tel: [01623] 456617

Friday 23rd March: Feathers Inn; Beacon Street; Lichfield. Tel: [01543] 417029

Saturday 24th March: The Horse and Jockey; Walsall Wood. Tel: [01543] 360703

Sunday 25th March: Roadhouse Rocks; Lifford Lane; Stirchley. Tel: [0121] 246 2273

You can view the new web site - including News, Band, Gigs and Media features - by clicking on this link:

http://www.abbeyroadexp.com/

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] supports; recommends and endorses: 'The Abbey Road Experience' to all music fans who like the ELO and Beatles genres in particular.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 18-Jan-2012

COMING UP: BAND ON THE RUNN

2012-01-17T19:54:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! It is indeed a great pleasure to be able to able to go out and about to hear; see and support local bands in the ELO and Beatles universe doing their thing. Last Saturday, I [again] checked out: 'Band On The Runn' [BOTR] - a new four [4] piece Midlands based Paul McCartney tribute act - as they fine tuned their extensive and impressive set list [amongst friends] in the Black Country. BOTR have previously featured on ELOBF thus:

INTRODUCING: BAND ON THE RUNN

RECOMMENDED: BAND ON THE RUNN

CAUGHT LIVE [1]: BAND ON THE RUNN

CAUGHT LIVE [2]: BAND ON THE RUNN

BOTR are Craig Whale; Ian Hammond; Adam Willetts and Dave Cottle and they will be playing two [2] much anticipated concerts in January 2012. It is my intention to attend both gigs in order to both support the band in their musical journey and appraise their development as a live act at these venues:

Friday 20th January 2012

'Band On The Runn' @ 'The Tackeroo'; Hednesford

Tickets: £5 each

http://bandontherunn.com/gigs.html

Friday 27th January 2012

'Band On The Runn' @ 'The Kingfisher'; Kingswinford

Tickets: £10 each

http://bandontherunn.com/gigs.html

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] endorse and recommend: 'Band On The Runn' to all music fans who like the ELO and Beatles genres in particular. The band are now taking bookings for gigs via their web site at: http://bandontherunn.com/ or via mobile 'phone on: [07538] 102177. See you there?

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 17-Jan-2012

RETURN TO VINYL: ELDORADO [UPDATED]

2012-01-15T18:13:00.001Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! As we put our footprint into 2012; the wheels are starting to slowly turn again in the ELO universe as we look forward to the many releases and gigs that are now coming into view. One of those releases is the impending re-release on "180 grams audiophile vinyl" of that classic 1974 ELO album: "Eldorado" in all its glory on the 'Music On Vinyl' label.

"Eldorado" is one of two superlative concept albums released by ELO; the other being: "Time" back in 1981 - both being two of my favourite ELO albums. Originally released on Warner Bros. Records [#K56090] and later re-released on Jet/United Artists [#UAG30092] and Jet/CBS Records [#JETLP203] whilst also being included in the 1978 boxed set: "Three Light Years" [#JETBX1] - it is most welcome to see the original album reproduced and re-released here in 2012 although we are not sure if it is from the original tapes or a later digital source.

And here is what amazon.co.uk are saying about the release: "'To pick up where "I Am The Walrus" left off' ... that was the goal when the Electric Light Orchestra formed in the early seventies. They wanted to steep different music styles in a rock tradition and mix in some Beatlesque pop, but it took Jeff Lynne and company until their fourth album "Eldorado" to get on the right track. Their most ambitious album to date, they decided to hire a 30-piece orchestra and choir to fill out their sound, and the investment paid off. With the unforgettable "Can't Get It Out Of My Head" as the lead single, "Eldorado" was a commercial, as well as a critical success, and it would achieve gold status in the US. 'The English guys with the big fiddles' had arrived." [end quote]

This LP [c/w insert] is priced at just £20.15 and is available on pre-order from amazon.co.uk with a release date of 30th January. This is a worthwhile purchase for the record [and CD] buying ELO connoisseur - even if you don't currently possess a turntable!

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 15-Jan-2012

INTRODUCING GEE RAY: "ELO My Favourite Band"

2012-01-13T17:12:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! I am always pleased to highlight those talented musicians out there in the ELOBF universe who either re-interpret or are influenced by or even compose music about [surprisingly enough!] ELO! And this week I have come across a great new tribute song to all things ELO by a Leeds based musician [and DJ] whose name is GEE RAY; who wrote a song last month entitled: "E.L.O. My Favourite Band" and performed it last week on the streets of Leeds. The whole thing was recorded on video and posted on YouTube the other day [see above] and Gee hopes to carry out a formal recording of the song soon. Here are Gee's [copyrighted!] lyrics for you to peruse:

"There was a band from Birmingham, They played classical rock,

Jeff Lynne wrote the songs, Bev played the drums,

Kelly was on the bass, Richard played the piano,

Mik Kaminski on the violin, Mel and Hugh on the cellos,

This is a song about my favourite band and they are called ELO.

They tour the world in their space ship all the way from Birmingham,

They toured the world and even played to uncle Sam,

They toured the world a classical band from Birmingham.

Roll Over Beethoven, Rock 'n' Roll Is King,

One Summers Dream, that's want Jeff sings,

Hold On Tight to that Livin' Thing,

There's gonna be a Showdown with that Wild West Hero,

Horace Wimp sent a Secret Message on the Telephone Line,

Just Shine A Little Love and you will be Above The Clouds,

Saying ELO Mr. Blue Sky, It was Xanadu,

This is a song about my favourite band and they are called ELO.

They tour the world in their space ship all the way from Birmingham,

They toured the world and even played to uncle Sam,

They toured the world a classical band from Birmingham.

I'm Alive, Don't Walk Away,

There's Confusion and Don't Bring Me Down,

I got a Ticket To The Moon and I Can't Get It Out My Head,

It's been 20 years since the band packed up,

Good music lives on and on and people still play their songs,

This a song of my favourite band and there called ELO

They tour the world in their space ship all the way from Birmingham,

They toured the world and even played to uncle Sam,

They toured the world a classical band from Birmingham."

I think you'll agree that Gee's song and lyrics are both truthful; ingenious and give great honour to Jeff Lynne and his ELO song legacy. ELOBF is happy to support and promote independent musicians like GEE RAY who ply their trade in the ELO [and related artistes] universe.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 13-Jan-2012

CAUGHT LIVE [5]: THE ELO EXPERIENCE

2012-01-08T21:47:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! As I travelled solo the 130 miles up to York yesterday afternoon to witness another concert of the: 'ELO Experience' - and to meet up with a few fellow ELO fans - I wondered what 2012 would bring in terms of how Andy Louis and the band would tweak their set for the New Year. And I need not have wondered folks!

Last night, the: 'ELO Experience' produced not only another superb and professional show at the fantastic Grand Opera House; they took their act up to the next level. Again backed by two [2] marvellous cellists; the band poured through those well-trodden ELO hits whilst paying a great deal of attention to the full scope of those classic songs composed and "Produced by Jeff Lynne" all those years ago.

Besides the new bespoke projector and the backdrop of ELO imagery; it would be pointless to cover old ground and discuss the impressive set list. What is of more interest are the changes to their set since my last gig in September. The band have truly pulled out a master stroke folks!

In place of: "Don't Walk Away" and "Calling America" the band are now seamlessly performing the first half of "Concerto For A Rainy Day" together in: "Standin' In The Rain" and "Big Wheels" ... and it was a triumphant tribute to that classic ELO sound. But the real clincher is their superb rendition of: "Latitude 88 North" from the OOTB 30th anniversary edition [2007]!

If I am moved by the music; lyrics and orchestration of: "Big Wheels" on the OOTB album; then to hear it live is simply beyond mere words. But to also hear: "Latitude 88 North" live really was the icing on the cake, proverbially speaking. The encore [final] song of the evening "Mr. Blue Sky" was fittingly dedicated to the late; great Kelly Groucutt to close out a truly superb concert. This band have truly matured both in terms of their production and presentation and now only really lack an eclectic violinist!

ELOBF endorses: 'The ELO Experience' to all music fans who like the ELO; 'Move'; 'Beatles' genres in particular. You really should seriously consider having an: 'ELO Experience' at a venue near you soon folks, especially as we still await the return to UK touring of: 'The Orchestra' and or Jeff Lynne/ELO! Please check out their web page and tour dates thus:

http://www.elotribute.com/giglist/search/search.php

http://www.elotribute.com/eloexperience.html

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 08-Jan-2012

RECOMMENDED: JUDIE TZUKE: LIVE 2012

2012-01-04T19:42:00.001Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! People that know me also know [apart from my [obvious] love of all things ELO] that I'm also a huge fan also of that marvellous songstress and musician: JUDIE TZUKE. Earlier today; I touched base with Judie regarding her upcoming Spring 2012 UK Tour and [inevitably!] the subject of our discourse came around to ELO and by extension: 'The Beatles'. I asked Judie one or two questions and she was gracious to respond thus:

KJS: "What would be your favourite 'Beatles' track and why?

Judie: "Of course ... "Hey Jude" because it's my name and I loved it and 'The Beatles' ... I always felt it was written for me as a child but obviously I know now it wasn't ... But I sang it anyway!"

KJS: "Do you also have a fave ELO track? ... and maybe a reason for that too?"

Judie: "Well! I do remember buying: "Evil Woman" and playing it over and over. Probably a bit of hairbrush miming and dancing on the bed went on too at that time! No particular reason but that it was a memorable time in my life ... but I didn't think that this song was written for me!"

Judie is touring the UK between Friday 9th March and Monday 2nd April 2012 to promote her latest [excellent!] album: "One Tree Less". I shall be at the final gig of the tour at Worcester in early April so here are all the tour venues. Full ticket information can be found on Judie's web site at: http://www.tzuke.com/:

Friday 9th March: Farncombe - St. John's Church

Sunday 11th March: Sheffield - Memorial Hall

Monday 12th March: Edinburgh - The Queens Hall

Tuesday 13th March: Gateshead - The Sage

Friday 16th March: Wimborne - Tivoli Theatre

Saturday 17th March: Burgess Hill - Martlets Hall

Monday 19th March: Bristol - St. George's

Tuesday 20th March: Maidstone - Hazlitt Theatre

Wednesday 21st March: Leeds - City Varieties

Friday 23rd March: London - Union Chapel

Thursday 29th March: Liverpool - Capstone Theatre

Friday 30th March: Milton Keynes - Stables

Sunday 1st April: Salford - Lowry

Monday 2nd April: Worcester - Huntingdon Hall

ELO Beatles Forever recommends and endorses: Judie Tzuke to all music fans who enjoy the music of: ELO and related artistes out there in the ELOBF universe!

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 04-Jan-2012

HERE IS THE NEWS [8]

2012-01-02T20:52:00.008Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Our friends over at: ELO Discovery.com have just posted an interesting eighteen [18] second YouTube clip of Brian Williams declaring on: "New Years Eve with Carson Daly" the other night on NBC TV in the United States that we can expect a "rare" release by Jeff Lynne in 2012. Let's hope his optimism is right. I think we should expect a Jeff Lynne branded release rather than a purely remixed; remastered and repackaged: "Zoom Tour Live" ELO release alone.

2012 promises to be an interesting and fruitful year in the ELOBF [and related] universe. I am in the process of arranging and constructing some exclusive interviews with not a few ELO and 'Move' related musicians as well as some ELO influenced artistes out there orbiting in the ELOBF universe. On top of that there are an array of exciting gigs to look forward to such as: Hooked On Classics - Live and some other great new and re-released albums too including: The Move - Live at The Fillmore - 1969 in 2012. So here's to the New Year and much ELOBF activity as we aim for 100,000 visits by year end!

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 02-Jan-2012

YOURS TRULY 2011: A YEAR IN REVIEW

2011-12-31T00:49:00.005Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! This is the third time in which I have attempted to write up my exploits with ELOBF in 2011. I simply didn't realise the amount of output this year. This is the 115th ELOBF blog of the year and first of all I would like to thank each and every visitor for taking the time to check out my writings and musings. 2011 was a year of many varied activities. Interviews; Reviews; Introductions; Recommendations and [of course!] Gigs et al. Hence - I've decided that the best way to cover the year is to simply list some of the highlights.

INTERVIEWS:

Mark Stanway ['Magnum']; 'BeatBack Brothers'; Rick Price ['The Move'; 'Wizzard']; Bob Lawton ['The Rockin' Berries']; Andy Louis ['ELO Experience']; Melvyn Gale [ELO]; 'Electric Live Orchestra'; Sean Mack Page ['Fragile X'; 'Imaginos']; 'Bubble Gum Orchestra' [Michael Laine Hildebrandt] and 'WelshMansHill' [Phil Hatton; Steve Turner; Phil Ridden]

REVIEWS:

"Live In London 1976" [ELO]; "The View From Here" ['Fay & Latta']; "Another Good Reason" ['Groucutt & Haynes']; "Earthrise" ['Morgan Tandy']; "Out Of This World" ['Bubble Gum Orchestra']; "Tape Recorders Changed Everything" ['Cult Of Wedge']; "The Olympus Sound" ['Pugwash']; "The Classic Albums Collection" [ELO]; "Music Book" [Roy Wood]; "Welcome To Soonville" and "The Neglected Gambit" [Maxi Dunn]

INTRODUCING:

'WelshMansHill'; 'Bubble Gum Orchestra' and 'Band On The Runn'

RECOMMENDED:

"LovePower and Peace"; 'Band On The Runn'; "It's Only Rock 'n' Roll"; Debra Dee's Exhibition of Roy Wood Art; David & Mandy Scott-Morgan; "The Move: Live At The Fillmore 1969" and "Hooked On Classics - Live" [Louis Clark]

CAUGHT LIVE:

'Electric Live Orchestra'; 'Beatles Blues and Blue Violin'; Bev Bevan's "Walk of Stars"; 'ELO Experience'; 'Band On The Runn'; 'The Trevor Burton Band'; 'Paul Parker & All The Right Friends'; "It's Only Rock 'n' Roll"; Roy Wood; Phil Bates & Tina McBain and 'The Lemuns'

Many thanx go to my concert cohort: Chris 'Joyride' Evans. I've so enjoyed meeting up with such great folks as: Andy Wood; Paul Richardson; Geoff Cook; Martin Kinch; Jeff Cooper; Tilly Bates; Jackee Whale; Ken Latta; Jim Hoban; Phil Hatton; Steve Turner; Phil Ridden; Graham Struggles and Bernie Toner amongst not a few others! So as you can see; it has been a great year and 2012 looks like being busy too. More interviews; more Reviews; more Introductions and even more gigs! Once again I truly thank you for your support and wish you a Happy; Peaceful; Prosperous and ELO-tastic New Year!

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 31-Dec-2011

RECOMMENDED: HOOKED ON CLASSICS - LIVE

2011-12-25T21:30:00.003Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! When Louis Clark isn't pulling the strings [literally!] in: 'The Orchestra' [former members of ELO and ELO Part II]; he is out and about either conducting other orchestras or he is involved with: 'Hooked On Classics' [HOC] - the musical phenomenon he created three [3] decades ago which has sold over 13 million copies worldwide and has now returned to the live format.

Indeed, I'm reliably informed that the concert at the BIC, Bournemouth on 22nd December was a sell-out and very well received by the Press; public and critics alike with a set list that included: "Hey Jude" and Louis' fantastic string arrangements on that classic ELO track: "Eldorado Overture".

The good news is that a new four [4] date Spring 2012 tour has been announced between Friday 25th and Monday 28th May next year wherein Lou Clark will again conduct the 'English Pops Orchestra' and take us through those classical classics a.k.a. 'Hooked On Classics - LIVE' in his own unique style. You can visit the HOC web site or view the official advert by clicking on the links below:

Official 'Hooked On Classics' web site

Hooked On Classics YouTube advert

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] fully recommends and endorses Louis Clark and 'Hooked On Classics - LIVE' to all music fans who enjoy the ELO; 'Move' and Beatles music genres. See you there?

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 25-Dec-2011

CAUGHT LIVE [1]: THE LEMUNS [UPDATED]

2011-12-24T21:32:00.004Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Without a doubt 2011 has been a great year for ELOBF and for attending not a few gigs! I'm delighted to also have the opportunity to promote and support local bands who ply their trade out on the periphery of the ELOBF universe. Now one of those new and upcoming bands that have been introduced to you this year are: 'Band On The Runn'. And co-founder of BOTR is a superb guitarist and oft vocalist Ian Hammond. I ventured over to 'The Royal Oak' pub in Wolverhampton with Christian 'Taxi' Evans last night to take a look at Ian's band: 'The Lemuns'; a three-piece unit that also features Gary Knight [Bass/Vocals] and Bryn Morris [Drums/Vocals] - although last night the guest percussionist was Dave Cottle from BOTR.

And those 'Lemuns' produced a great set last night covering blues and rock standards like: "Freebird"; "Get It On"; "Blockbuster"; "20th Century Boy"; "All Right Now"; "Hey Joe" and "Whiskey In The Jar" amongst not a few others - with maybe the promise of a few 'Beatles' and even an ELO tune in the future too. I did take the opportunity to suggest to Ian that "Ma Ma Ma Belle" or "Poker" were potential new songs that would suit the band. In the meantime - please feel free to peruse 'The Lemuns' Facebook and MySpace pages and check out this great local West Midlands band thus:

The Lemuns @ Facebook

The Lemuns @ MySpace

STOP PRESS: Latest 'The Lemuns' 2012 Gig List

Saturday 21st January: Shoulder of Mutton; Brownhills [20:00]

Saturday 28th January: Four Crosses Inn; Walsall [21:00]

Friday 17th February: Meadowlark; Dudley [21:00]

Saturday 18th February: Red Lion; Wednesfield [21:00]

Friday 9th March: Red Cow; Walsall [21:00]

Saturday 17th March: Ashmole Club; Hammerwich [21:00]

Saturday 31st March: Four Crosses Inn; Walsall [21:00]

Saturday 7th April: Old Royal Oak; Wednesbury [18:00]

Friday May 4th: Cross Keys Llandudno; North Wales [21:00]

Saturday May 5th: Town House; Llandudno; North Wales [21:00]

Saturday May 12th: Royal Oak; Wolverhampton [21:00]

Saturday May 19th: Boathouse; Rushall [21:00]

Friday May 25th: Meadowlark; Dudley [21:00]

Saturday May 26th: Four Crosses Inn; Walsall [21:00]

Saturday July 21st: Four Crosses Inn; Walsall [21:00]

Saturday September 15th: Four Crosses Inn; Walsall [21:00]

Saturday November 10th: Four Crosses Inn; Walsall [21:00]

Saturday December 8th: Boathouse; Rushall [21:00]

Wednesday December 26th: Meadowlark; Dudley [21:00]

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommends and endorses 'The Lemuns' to all music fans who exist in the ELO; 'Move' and Beatles universes and beyond - particularly in the Midlands of England!

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 24-Dec-2011

RECOMMENDED: THE MOVE: LIVE AT THE FILLMORE 1969 [UPDATED]

2011-12-21T18:55:00.002Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Here is news of an exciting new release for fans of the predecessors of ELO - 'The Move' [co-source: Face The Music]. Although only just released as a MP3 download via amazon.co.uk this week on Monday 19th December; the whole of their legendary set at The Fillmore West; San Francisco in October 1969 appears to now being released on Monday 5th March 2012 according to: amazon.co.uk in 2CD format - a full three [3] weeks later than the original date of 13th February.

"The Move: Live At The Fillmore 1969" is being released by RightRecordings.com [#RIGHT116] with the full backing of Sue Wayne; widow of the late; great Carl Wayne.

The 2CD edition has significantly greater content than the download edition including a 10:30 long version of: "I Can Hear The Grass Grow" as well as a near eleven [11] minute recollection of that US tour by Bev Bevan. Here is the edited text of the Press Release from RightRecordings.com:

"The Move were one of the 60’s most controversial and legendary groups and one of the most contradictory. A string of memorable hit singles, all written by pop genius Roy Wood, were set against a musically thrilling and often brutal live act, centred around lead singer Carl Wayne. The band achieved major recording success with UK and European hits including: "Blackberry Way"; "Fire Brigade"; "Curly"; "Night Of Fear"; "I Can Hear The Grass Grow" and "Flowers In The Rain" - the first ever record played on BBC Radio 1 ... Thought lost for over 30 years, the master tapes from The Move’s shows at the Fillmore West were saved by Carl Wayne but suffered technical problems and could not be released. Thanks to advances in studio technology, Carl began restoring the tapes in 2003. Sadly Carl died in 2004 and was never able to complete the live album he believed would show how incredible 'The Move' was as a live band. Now, with the full co-operation and permission of his wife - Sue Wayne - the tapes have been painstakingly restored, remastered and released in memory of The Move’s dynamic front man and lead singer." [end quote]

And here is some really great news ... all pre-orders for the 2CD are being despatched [prior to the above 'official' release date] from Wednesday 1st February 2012 [Ed: this date has obviously also slipped too!] onward. The basic set is attractively priced at just £10.99 each and you can also have the release signed by 'The Move' co-founder Bev Bevan [also supplied with a 'Collectors Edition' Move postcard] for just £15 each. A special edition T-Shirt [normally priced at £25] is also on offer with the 2CD [if ordered together] for just £20. Fans of 'The Move' should enter promotional code: Move1969 at the checkout stage for free worldwide postage. You can pre-order this excellent release directly from RightRecordings.com thus:

www.rightrecordings.com/the-move

ELOBF recommends and fully endorses: "Live At The Fillmore 1969" by 'The Move' to all music fans who like: ELO and 'The Beatles' genres in particular.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 21-Dec-2011

REVIEW: WELCOME TO SOONVILLE & THE NEGLECTED GAMBIT

2011-12-18T16:13:00.002Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Regular visitors to ELOBF will [hopefully!] remember my post on 9th November entitled: REVIEW: TAPE RECORDERS CHANGED EVERYTHING where I took a look at the new album by Peter Hackett [a.k.a. 'Cult Of Wedge'], who is a local performer, songwriter and producer heavily influenced by Jeff Lynne and [naturally] by extension ELO - especially if you have a listen to his new seasonal release: "Christmas On The Moon".

Now, one of the artistes that Pete Hackett produces is a superb singer songstress from Prescott near Liverpool whose name is Maxine 'Maxi' Dunn. Her first CD self-release in 2009 was the 14-track: "Welcome To Soonville" [WTS] which was followed in 2011 by the 12-track offering: "The Neglected Gambit" [TNG].

"Welcome To Soonville" is a collection of songs from Maxi that is part-produced by Pete Hackett [9 songs] and it ably demonstrates the full remit of Maxi Dunn's crystal clear voice and impressive song construction. Tracks such as the strong opener: "How Was I To Know" and sure fire foot tapper: "Always Be My Friend" are held in tension by the title track and a fine collection of songs of differing styles with the same theme of introspective regret and tentative forward steps.

And "The Neglected Gamble" is a progression from WTS that displays the same smouldering back glance, lyrically, of romantic angst but is a little more jolly and positive of yet future days. It is this second CD where the partnership between Maxi and Peter comes into its own. The 'big sound' of Mr. Hackett's ELO influenced production values and from the rock fuelled title track to musical gems such as: "Why Do I Want You?"; "Make It Better"; "You Took The Sunshine From My Heart"; "Weather Warning" and "Winter Ghost". On this CD you can hear flamenco in one song; Blues on the next and then a Beatlesque ditty after that! The layered backing vocals, for me, give away the influences of the producer - and beautifully support the song construction.

Folks that know me know that after ELO; I am a huge fan of ABC and Martin Fry too. Some of the bittersweet lovelorn angst of the songs on these two [2] Maxi Dunn albums really take me back to the heady days of 'The Lexicon Of Love' in 1982 with their tales of heart wrenching broken promises. It's a tremendous piece of work in the opinion of this particular writer and listener.

The CD versions of "Welcome To Soonville" and "The Neglected Gamble" are available direct from the official Maxi Dunn web site [see below]. You can also download some or all of her albums from: amazon.co.uk or iTunes.com:

Official Maxi Dunn web site

Maxi Dunn @ MySpace

ELOBF is proud to endorse; support and recommend independent artistes: Maxi Dunn [and Peter Hackett] who ply their trade from the musical heartlands of 'The Beatles' and ELO respectively.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 18-Dec-2011

CAUGHT LIVE [1]: PHIL BATES & TINA McBAIN

2011-12-11T22:12:00.001Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! In many respects; I had many thoughts as I travelled over to Middleton Hall [near Tamworth] with Christian 'Cloudbusting' Evans last night to attend and witness the much-anticipated: 'Phil Bates and Tina McBain Christmas Show'. I sensed that this seasonal gig signalled a kind of musical crossroads for Phil Bates; Tina McBain and the loyal fans there in attendance and, I believe, so it was.

Not only was it confirmed by Phil that his time with: 'The Orchestra' was over; we were also enlightened as to the formation of Phil's new project: 'The Abbey Road Experience' as he and Tina produced a show of immense musical variety and style which covered their past; present and yet future careers.

We heard old favourites; new favourites and some nice surprises too. It was quite surreal to see Phil sat up there solo on stage for the first half of the show as he fiddled with his gadgets [as well as his plaster cast!] and treated us to some of his own compositions; some ELO and 'Beatles' classics and even a 'Hollies' cover. I couldn't help thinking that Carl Wayne was singing their material not so long ago. The second half of the show saw Tina link up with Phil for a great set of songs with the odd spot of humour. And there were so many songs given special treatment during this concert.

"Empty Rooms" was a new song Phil has written about a house where its children have flown from the nest. That superlative tribute to the late great Kelly Groucutt in: "Midnight Blue" was also there to cherish again amongst the well over twenty [20] songs that were performed on the night. It was great to hear: "Bus Stop" and even a nice rendition of: "Time After Time" too. We also had the pleasure of hearing [amongst not a few others]: "It Doesn't Get Any Better Than This"; While My Guitar Gently Weeps"; "Can't Get It Out Of Head"; "Rock 'n' Roll Is King"; "If I Needed Someone" and "A Hard Days Night" during the evening.

The gig ended with the strange sight of of one one half of the act leaving the stage to rapturous applause whilst the other half stayed put! But what an encore it was as we first listened to a great acoustic version of that classic 'Move' track: "Blackberry Way" - with a nice nod to Roy Wood and Bev Bevan by Phil.

The real treat was that the final musical interpretation was of that John Lennon seasonal classic: "Happy Christmas [War Is Over]". It rounded off a fantastic gig by two [2] supremely talented musicians of whom we should take the time to listen and support in the months and years to come. Go see 'em in 2012 folks!

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 11-Dec-2011

HERE IS THE NEWS: THE ABBEY ROAD EXPERIENCE

2011-12-10T13:50:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Here's some exciting news regarding former Trickster; ELO Part II and 'The Orchestra' front man Phil Bates.

Regular visitors to ELOBF will doubtless be aware of Phil's recent decision to continue with his German projects in 2012: 'ELO Klassik' and 'The Music of ELO' as well as [of course] the 'Beatles Blues and Blue Violin Project' [BBBV] - but not as a member of: 'The Orchestra - former members of ELO and ELO Part II':

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/an appreciation of phil bates

And here is that news. Phil Bates announced on Wednesday 7th December that he has a new project in the works for 2012 entitled: 'The Abbey Road Experience':

http://www.phil-bates.co.uk/index.htm

This new band will cover live - note by note - the whole of : 'The Beatles' final seminal 1969 album: "Abbey Road" which -of course - includes those classic songs: "Come Together"; "Here Comes The Sun" and "Something" amongst others. Here is the text of Phil's announcement:

"I would like to tell you all about my new project - The Abbey Road Experience - which will seek to reproduce The Beatles Abbey Road album note for note, or as near as possible, on stage in a 'live' situation. Involved in this project are Chris and Steve from Eagles tribute 'Desperado', and Derek Holt from Climax Blues Band. In fact, the whole thing was Chris' idea ... it came to him in a moment of madness, I think ... As yet we haven't decided on a keyboard player, but this will happen soon. Rehearsals are under way, and first gigs will be in March 2012. Our main focus will be October 2012 for a tour ... the March dates will be largely to assess whether we have an audience for this, and to make sure it all works musically. Look at my gig page for details! Suffice to say, I am very excited about this project. It is a BIG challenge, but one I am very excited about. I hope you will come and support us." [end quote]

The new band will include two [2] members of that superb 'Eagles' tribute band: 'Desperado' [http://www.desperadolive.co.uk] in Chris Brighton and Steve James plus ex-'Climax Blues Band' [CBB] founder Derek Holt. A keyboard player will be announced in the near future. The band are planning to commence gigging in March 2012 looking towards an October 2012 tour. To this writer; it's an exciting new band to look forward to seeing and hearing! ELOBF will, of course, recommend; support and endorse: 'The Abbey Road Experience'.

Please note also those ever increasing and strengthening links between 'The Beatles' and ELO universes in that we have a new 'Beatles' flavoured project that features current BBBV and ex-ELO musician Phil Bates in tandem with former CBB member Derek Holt - who was himself also a former band mate of ELO Part II co-founder Pete Haycock. Watch that space folks!

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 10-Dec-2011

NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN MIKE EDWARDS CASE [3]

2011-12-08T23:02:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! I received yet another telephone call this evening from my roving reporter down in south Devon - Pete Reynolds - informing me that there has been another interesting development in the sad story of the unlucky and tragic demise of former ELO cellist Mike Edwards last year:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-devon-16010916

http://www.thisissouthdevon.co.uk/face-crown-court-ELO-musician-death

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/09/ mike-edwards-1

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/10/mike-edwards-2

The 'latest' news is that the two [2] defendants - farmer Brian Burden and agricultural contractor Russell Williams - have been given unconditional bail and the case has been committed to Crown Court in Plymouth on Monday 23rd January 2012. They have been charged with health and safety offences relating to operations on farm land at Halwell, near Totnes, in September 2010. The case continues.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 08-Dec-2011

CAUGHT LIVE [2]: BAND ON THE RUNN

2011-12-05T20:44:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! I travelled the ten [10] miles or so to Stourbridge last night [Sunday 4th December] in order to attend my second 'Band On The Runn' [BOTR] gig with Christian 'Frog Chorus' Evans at the marvellous 'River Rooms' venue at: http://www.theriverrooms.com/

BOTR are a relatively new West Midlands based act who perform a wide-ranging set covering most [if not all] of the musical career of Sir Paul McCartney and have been previously featured on ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] thus:

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/05/introducing-band-on-runn.html

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/10/recommended-band-on-runn.html

As mentioned before; it is a great pleasure of mine to be able to able to go out and about to hear; see and support local bands in the ELO and Beatles universe doing their thing. During the unbroken two [2] hour set last night, BOTR demonstrated a noticeable increase in maturity and looked a lot more comfortable in front of the appreciative audience. In short, I would say that the band graduated last night onto the next level of their musical journey.

The fine keyboard work of Adam Willetts ably supported the driving percussion of Dave Cottle whilst the sublime guitar work of Ian Hammond was a marvellous foil to lead vocalist; guitarist and piano tinkler Craig Whale as the band re-interpreted those classic compositions of Paul McCartney from the very first Beatles album right through his Wings career and beyond. All the familiar songs were there and the set hinged nicely around most of the : "Band On The Run" album.

It was a successful gig in this writers opinion but a band like this should be headlining venues on a Friday or Saturday night to maximize their potential and that of their potential fan base. A tight, accomplished performance produced great live versions of: "Jet"; "Flaming Pie"; "Hey Jude"; "Coming Up"; "Back In The USSR"; "Hey Jude"; "Let 'Em In"; "My Love"; "Live And Let Die"; "1985"; "Let It Be" and "Drive My Car" amongst not a few others. But for me - once again - my favourite song of the night was: "The Long And Winding Road".

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] endorse and recommend: 'Band On The Runn' to all music fans who like the ELO and Beatles genres in particular. Those many live music venues and promoters here in the Midlands of England should also take note! The band are now taking bookings for gigs via their web site at: http://bandontherunn.com/ or via mobile 'phone on: [07538] 102177. Go see 'em folks!

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 05-Dec-2011

RECOMMENDED: DAVID & MANDY SCOTT-MORGAN

2011-12-03T20:03:00.002Z

Hello again folks! It is with great pleasure that I present this film featuring David Scott-Morgan [former member of ELO between 1981-1986] in the above interview on 'YouTube' that covers his musical career and his gospel concert presentation with his wife Mandy:

http://www.daveandmandy.co.uk/

http://www.facebook.com/Dave-Mandy

It's interesting to hear excerpts of the interview as Dave talks about his Birmingham-based musical roots including his time with Danny King; the formation of 'The Move' and, of course, his time with ELO. Dave also mentions in the abridged interview that he covers "Mr. Blue Sky" and "Livin' Thing" during his concerts and also talks about his conversion to Christianity in 1988.

Regular visitors to ELOBF will be aware that Dave and former ELO keyboardist Richard Tandy re-released their: "Earthrise" concept album earlier this year to rave reviews:

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/08/review-earthrise.html

I'm also pleased to announce that I will be interviewing Dave and former ELO sound engineer Colin Owen about their music careers; testimonies and ministries in the next few weeks or months for ELOBF.

David and Mandy Scott-Morgan are recommended and endorsed by ELOBF to all music fans who like the genres of: ELO; 'The Beatles' and 'The Move' in particular.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 03-Dec-2011

RECOMMENDED: DEBRA DEE'S EXHIBITION OF ROY WOOD ART [UPDATED]

2011-12-03T14:19:00.004Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Debra Dee is a marvellous Australian artiste who has produced some excellent portraits of 'The Move' and ELO co-founder Roy Wood amongst others. You can see a glimpse of her standard of work if you visit: 'Woody's Bar' at the Robin2 in Bilston; Wolverhampton because you will find one of her Roy Wood portraits [unveiled back in June 2011] proudly displayed there:

http://www.expressandstar.com/news/2011/06/14/roy-woods-portrait-simply-wizzard/

I've been talking to Debra about her portfolio and have some exciting news pertaining to her work dedicated to Roy Wood. An exhibition of many of Debra's interpretive paintings of Roy Wood will open on Thursday 2nd February and run until Thursday 23rd February 2012 at St. Pauls Gallery [SPG] in Birmingham for three [3] weeks. And with painting titles such as: "Reflections"; "The Muse" and "White Magic" - one can only count down the days until the exhibition begins.

The opening night will see a host of 1960's and 1970's music personalities in attendance and hopefully Roy will be in attendance too. This whole three week event is a must for fans of Roy Wood; ELO; 'The Move' and 'Wizzard' to see not only these great paintings of Roy but also appreciate the talent and artistic licence of Debra. I hope to attend the premiere with Martin Kinch of 'Cherry Blossom Clinic' [CBC]. You can visit the CBC and SPG web sites and/or Facebook pages here:

CHERRY BLOSSOM CLINIC

Cherry Blossom Clinic @ Facebook
ST. PAULS GALLERY
St. Pauls Gallery @ Facebook

ELOBF is proud to promote; support and endorse the artistry of Debra Dee. Please make the effort to visit the exhibition next February to support Roy and Debra. See you there?

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 03-Dec-2011

SUPPORT YOUR LOCAL MUSIC VENUE!

2011-11-29T19:51:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Whilst driving to work today, I was reflecting upon the numbers of gigs that I have been to in the last calendar year. I then got to thinking on how many local music venues that I've visited too.

Hence; In these days of easy downloads and [so-called] TV talent shows; It has been a pleasure to have been able to not only promote ELOBF featured artistes on the road - but also to support those local music venues that provide a platform for live music here in the Midlands of England and beyond. Here is a selection of those local venues that I've frequented [with various personages] in the last twelve [12] months on that ELOBF trail:

Robin2 R 'n' B Club: http://www.therobin.co.uk/

The Range: http://www.therange.net/

The Tackeroo: http://www.tackeroo.com/

The River Rooms: http://www.theriverrooms.com/

Wolves Civic: http://www.wolvescivic.co.uk/index.asp?loc=home

Katie Fitzgeralds: http://www.katiefitzgeralds.co.uk/

And here is an idea for you to consider: Why not try and make sure that you get out and support your local live music venue at least once in the next year so as to keep the music live in your area too?

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 29-Nov-2011

CAUGHT LIVE [2]: ROY WOOD

2011-11-27T20:05:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! I made a last gasp decision last night to travel solo down to Bilston to go and see this years: 'Roy Wood Rock 'n' Roll Band "I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday" Midlands Extravaganza'. And a full house at the Robin2 was treated to another 60 minute trawl through Roy's 'The Move'; 'Wizzard' and solo "Music Book" - to coin a phrase and quote his latest release:

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/11/review-music-book.html

When you witness a Roy Wood gig; your memory is reignited about his legendary song writing treasure chest and the sheer magical; musical instrumental prowess of the co-founder of: 'The Move' and the 'Electric Light Orchestra' as well as founder of 'Wizzard' et al.

It really is superb to hear his four-piece brass section supplement his other musical troops as they plough through those well-known songs we all know and love like: "Blackberry Way"; "Flowers In The Rain"; "I Can Hear The Grass Grow"; "See My Baby Jive"; :Ball Park Incident"; "Angel Fingers" and - naturally - "I Wish It Could Be Christmas Every Day" as well as more recent compositions: "Big Girl Blues" and "New York City".

It was also great to see Roy get those bagpipes out again during: "Are You Ready To Rock?". Another highlight of the night was after telling the buzzing crowd that he had slipped two [2] discs and might utilize his stool ... until a member of his band asked if they were two of his golden ones! It was also nice to bump into Martin Kinch from 'Cherry Blossom Clinic' as well as Robin2 regular Paul Richardson; Andy 'Fruity Buckfoot' Wood and his wife Sue. I have to say it was a great night and well worth the wait for such a relatively short set.

And there is plenty of time for you to catch Roy live in the coming days! Roy Wood is touring with 'Status Quo' as part of their "Quofestive 2011" tour - also with Kim Wilde - during December:

http://www.livenation.co.uk/artist/status-quo-tickets?s_kwcid=TC|13337|quofest||S|b|11584301628

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 27-Nov-2011

REVIEW: MUSIC BOOK

2011-11-21T21:58:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Where I do I start with this review? I say this because listening to this new all-encompassing compilation a couple of times has reminded me [a] just how much of a musical song writing legacy Roy Wood has and [b] how much of his output I absolutely love!

Doubtless you are aware that Roy is the co-founder of: 'The Move' and ELO as well as being the founder of: 'Wizzard' and not a few other bands too! The thirty-six [36] track 2CD Roy Wood musical biography: "Music Book" just released by EMI/Harvest [#50999 731221 2 8] last 14th November 2011 covers all the bases that you would expect in a two [2] disc set - and more!

Yes, you will find the Roy Wood and 'Wizzard' back catalogue standards on here including: "Angel Fingers"; "See My Baby Jive"; "Ball Park Incident" and "Forever" et al. But there is so much of his other work crammed on here that the whole set comes over as a refreshing set of songs that do justice to Roy's near five [5] decade of multi-instrumentalism and song creation. The classic Rock 'n' Roll back beat influence is there as is that of the Phil Spector 'Wall Of Sound'.

The album commences with a live recording of Roy with his Rock 'n' Roll Band playing a brassed-up version of "California Man" but with an initial "Brontosaurus" flavour and this heralds a superb 'Greatest Hits and more' collection.Included in this set are two [2] covers of those 'Move' classics: "I Can Hear The Grass Grow" and "Flowers In The Rain" by none other than Roy's touring buddies 'Status Quo' and [believe it or not!] Nancy Sinatra!

It's also interesting that that class 'Move' track: "Beautiful Daughter" is listed on this CD as being by: 'Roy Wood with Carl Wayne vocals [String arrangement and Bass: Tony Visconti]'. I wonder whether this is a token of the rift that appears to exist between Roy and that of former band mates Bev Bevan and Trevor Burton as they continue perform and tour as: 'The Move'? One can only guess.

On the other hand there is much evidence of Mr. Wood's sense of humour as: "Are You Ready To Rock" is listed as: "R. U. RED E 2 ROCK"! A 2011 'Shed' version of "Fire Brigade" is here as well as his superb contribution from the debut ELO album: "First Movement" sub-listed as 'Roy playing Acoustic Guitar and Cello' - a real 'Bonus Track' me thinx - as if we didn't know!

Also included is a fantastic twenty [20] page CD booklet that includes Roy with his major collaborators over the years including: Jeff Lynne; Jimi Hendrix; Paul McCartney; George Martin and his daughter Holly amongst not a few others.

But what I really like about this album is this. I've been re-acquainted also with Roy's post-'Wizzard' material. Songs long ignored by [so-called] 'major' record labels to their absolute shame. I was thrilled to hear: "Oh What A Shame" and "Any Old Time Will Do" again on here from his "Mustard" period on Jet Records.

But if I had to select my favourite track on this CD it would have to be [just!] the new version of: "Blackberry Way" that Roy has produced and enhanced with extra strings [played by himself of course!]. This track alone is worth the experience. It makes me wonder what ELO with Roy Wood and Jeff Lynne in tandem might have developed into beyond: "No Answer". It's a tremendous adaption [in this writers humble opinion of course!] and oddly enough, it is followed by THE Christmas anthem. And with 'Yuletide' just a month away; it makes this release even more appealing to buy as a gift either to treat yourself or to assist someone you love who is in dire need of a musical re-education.

"Music Book" by Roy Wood is available from all reputable music outlets including: http://www.amazon.co.uk/Music-Book-Roy-Wood/ at just £9.46 at the time of writing.

ROY WOOD [and his many musical vehicles - including those 'Helicopters'!] is highly recommended and endorsed by ELOBF to all music fans who like the: ELO; 'The Move' [naturally!] and 'The Beatles' genres in particular.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 21-Nov-2011

REVIEW: THE CLASSIC [ELO] ALBUMS COLLECTION

2011-11-19T21:52:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! In a year when the long awaited new Jeff Lynne and/or ELO album or albums apparently did not see the light of day - but much hearsay and many rumours did - we did see an Autumn outbreak of more ELO compilations. And I am not complaining because the staple diet of any ELO fan and collector is the plethora of collections that have been released:

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/09/here-is-new-release-news.html

Back on October 10th; Sony released: "The Essential Electric Light Orchestra" - a 37 track; 2CD compilation that featured nearly all of the ELO UK single releases from "10538 Overture" to "Latitude 88 North". It included: "Do Ya"; "It's Over" and "Surrender" but not "Here Is The News" and "Getting To The Point" and it was a tidy and attractive package for ELO fans new and old. November 14th not only saw the release of: "Music Book" by Roy Wood [ELOBF to follow soon] but the second of Sony Legacy's 2011 ELO back catalogue resurrections in: "The Classic Albums Collection" [#88697873262].

This neatly and attractively packaged compact boxed set contains all eleven [11] ELO albums from 1971's self-titled release [a.k.a. "No Answer"] to 1986's "Balance Of Power". However, you will not find 1980's "Xanadu" or 2001's "Zoom" here. Not bad at all for around £30! There's a nice 28 page booklet summarizing all the remastered editions inside. As well as that, all the original single, gatefold and double album sleeves are replicated. Yes, you not only get all the original albums and their artwork, you get a full set of all the remastered, expanded editions we saw released between 2001 and 2006. This release is a great way to get associated with the full ELO brand and journey from their first French Horn blasts to their synthesized encore. "The Classic Albums Collection" is available from all reputable music outlets including: http://www.amazon.co.uk/classic-elo-album-collection for just £29.47 at the time of writing. And with Christmas around the corner ... need I say any more?

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 19-Nov-2011

AN APPRECIATION OF PHIL BATES

2011-11-18T17:09:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! It was today - Friday 18th November - that Phil Bates announced that he would no longer be touring with: 'The Orchestra - former members of ELO and ELO Part II' on his web site with these words:

"Many of you will be aware that I fell and broke my fibula and did ankle ligament damage a few weeks ago when I was with 'The Orchestra' in Uruguay. Trust me to do something like that 6,000 miles and a 14-hour flight away from home ... but I have always been an awkward sod. Anyway, I just wanted to give anyone interested an update. I have been in plaster now for 5 weeks and have 3 weeks more before I am free of this thing and able to scratch my leg. A long slow recuperation will follow, but I am hoping to be back to my fighting best in 2012 ... as early in the year as possible, though there will be no stage somersaults for a while! Just wanted to apologize to anyone expecting to see me in eastern Europe with 'The Orchestra'. I had planned to be with the boys over there, but my doctor and consultant refused to give me permission to fly, and in truth, it would have been impossibly difficult for me with the schedule and travel arrangements the band has. I am gutted to have not been able to be with the guys, especially as this was to be my last tour as part of 'The Orchestra'. I will miss all the guys in the band a tremendous amount. I love them all like brothers and wish them every success in the future ... but circumstances have forced me to concentrate on my German projects from 2012 onwards. OK ... love and best wishes to everyone and have a great Christmas and New Year. Hope to see a few of you at Middleton Hall on December 10th ..." [end quote]

Having witnessed a number of gigs with the original ELO Part II line-up that included Neil Lockwood and Pete Haycock back in 1991 and 1992; I did not know what to expect when Phil Bates joined the band and took over lead guitar duties from the two previous incumbents for the bands 1993 UK tour. It was at Wolverhampton Civic Hall on Saturday 12th June 1993 that we first witnessed Phil's guitar wizardry and vocal work. And we were not to be disappointed.

From 1993 to 2009 - during two separate spells with both ELO Part II and 'The Orchestra' - and in countless gigs at places including Chester; Derby; Birmingham; Colchester and Telford [and not a few more] - we saw Phil grow and excel in the challenge of transforming the ELO back catalogue into accurate live guitar and vocal performances.

It was the toughest of tasks to replicate the sonic genius of Jeff Lynne - but Phil pulled it off. In addition to that; we were also blessed to taste the song writing prowess of Phil with his contributions to the 1994 studio album: "Moment Of Truth" and the 1995 live album: "One Night - Live In Australia".

Doubtless we can all look forward to partaking in Phil's musical journey going forward starting with 'The Phil Bates and Tina McBain Christmas Show' on Saturday 10-Dec-2011. Phil will be busy in 2012 with his other projects that include: 'Beatles Blues and Blue Violin' [BBBV] and his German outfits: 'ELO Klassik - The Music of ELO performed by Phil Bates and the Berlin String Ensemble' and 'The Music of ELO - performed by Phil Bates and band'. Maybe we could also see the return of the fantastic: 'Wheels Of Fire' too; if interest and time permit. We can only hope!

Whilst I am tremendously sad to see Phil Bates second spell with ELO Part II and 'The Orchestra' come to an end; I wish to take the opportunity to wish Phil [and his wife Joanna] all the very best in their ongoing musical projects thereafter. Without a doubt Phil was a major player in both bands for the best part of two decades and it is for that role I am truly thankful to Phil. For his significant contribution in keeping the ELO sound live when others would not.

I hope to interview Phil for ELOBF in the months ahead. ELOBF endorses and recommends PHIL BATES and his many musical projects to all music fans who like the ELO and 'Beatles' genres.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 18-Nov-2011

REVIEW: THE OLYMPUS SOUND

2011-11-17T21:10:00.003Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Without doubt I owe my knowledge and appreciation of the eclectic but brilliant Dublin-based Irish quartet: 'PUGWASH' to my friend Mark Burrows. It was Mark who suggested that I take a somewhat belated listen to their fifth album; the August 2011 release: "The Olympus Sound" as well as their previous set: "Eleven Modern Antiquities" - being acutely aware of my interest in all things ELO and related.

I had heard the musical talents of Thomas Walsh from his close association with fellow ELO-inspired musical partner Neil Hannon [formerly of: 'The Divine Comedy' of course!] in their 'Ivor Novello' nominated and ingenious collaboration: 'The Duckworth Lewis Method' plus some YouTube footage of their ELO cover: "Mr. Blue Sky" et al. I contacted Thomas direct and he kindly emailed me the album as a download but I was more comfortable with actually buying and 'supporting' the band before I set about reviewing it in this particular case.

"The Olympus Sound" is truly a superb set of twelve [12] well-crafted examples of the real and true art of song writing. Almost all of those songs come from the pen of Mr. Walsh. I can honestly say that there is not a 'weak' track on this album. To quote the late, great Kelly Groucutt: "It's blummin' marvellous!". Add to that one song co-written with former XTC front man Andy Partridge and some very slick co-production by Thomas and co-band member Tosh Flood and you have something approaching the perfect pop album.

The albums comprises the titles: "Answers On A Postcard"; "There You Are"; "To The Warmth Of You"; "Fall Down"; "Be My Friend Awhile"; "Dear Belinda"; 15 Kilocycle Tone"; "I Don't Like It But I Gotta Do It"; Here We Go 'Round Again"; Such Beauty Thrown Away"; "See You Mine [Coda]" and "Four Days". And I'm struggling to name a favourite track! But if I had to it's the witty and uplifting guitar driven composition: "I Don't Like It But I Gotta Do It".

When you listen to the album a few times over [and you will do that!]; you not only recognize the influence of the ELO sound; song construction and arrangements of one Jeff Lynne. You also hear and feel 'The Beatles' and 'The Beach Boys' throughout the recording too. It really is like a kind of musical journey through the songsmithery of all those classic sixties and seventies artistes that we all cherish and their output of 'feel good' songs. I honestly believe that it would be better for you to listen to this CD yourselves rather than read my track-by-track commentary!

'PUGWASH' are: Thomas Walsh; Tosh Flood; Shaun McGee; Joey Fitzgerald

You can find out more about them and/or buy their albums on either CD or download format from these reputable sites:

http://www.pugwashtheband.com/
http://www.facebook.com/Pugwash
http://www.1969records.com
http://www.amazon.co.uk/PUGWASH
http://itunes.apple.com/pugwash

I'm also pleased to announce that I will interview Thomas Walsh in the near future for ELOBF. The fantastic ensemble that is: 'PUGWASH' and their latest album: "The Olympus Sound" [as well as their earlier projects and releases!] are recommended and endorsed by ELOBF to all music fans who like the: ELO and 'Beatles' genres in particular.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 17-Nov-2011

ELOBF GIG GUIDE [7]

2011-11-13T18:14:00.005Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Autumn into Winter 2011/2012 continues to shape up as a great gig fest for ELO and Beatles related gigs here in the West Midlands of England. Here are some selected dates for you to peruse and consider your attendance at:

Trevor Burton

Trevor will be performing regularly at various venues in the Midlands with 'The Trevor Burton Band' [TTBB] and as part of 'It's Only Rock 'n' Roll'. You can catch TTBB at 'The Actress and Bishop' in Birmingham most Wednesday nights.

http://www.thetrevorburtonband.co.uk/

Saturday 26th November 2011

'The Roy Wood Rock 'n' Roll Band' @ 'The Robin 2'; Bilston

Tickets: £15 [advance] or £16 [door]

http://www.therobin.co.uk/whats_on/giginfo.asp?gigid=2559

Saturday 3rd December 2011

'The BeatBack Brothers' @ the Goodyear Pavillion; Wolverhampton [Free]

http://www.myspace.com/beatbackbrothers

Sunday 4th December 2011

'Band On The Runn' @ 'The River Rooms'; Stourbridge

Tickets: £5 each

http://bandontherunn.com/gigs.html

Saturday 10th December 2011

'The Phil Bates and Tina McBain Christmas Show' @ Middleton Hall; Tamworth

Tickets: £13.50 each

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/09/welcome-to-phil-bates-and-tina-mcbain.html

Friday 16th December 2011
'The BeatBack Brothers' @ the Goodrich Club; Wolverhampton

Tickets: £5 each

http://www.myspace.com/beatbackbrothers

Saturday 24th December 2011

'The Cavern Beatles' @ 'The Robin 2'; Bilston

Tickets: £10 [advance] or £12 [door]

http://www.therobin.co.uk/whats_on/giginfo.asp?gigid=2692

Saturday 14th January 2012
'Band On The Runn' @ 'The White Hart'; Bilston [Free]
http://bandontherunn.com/gigs.html

Friday 20th January 2012

'Band On The Runn' @ 'The Tackeroo'; Hednesford

Tickets: £5 each

http://bandontherunn.com/gigs.html

Friday 27th January 2012

'Band On The Runn' @ 'The Kingfisher'; Kingswinford

Tickets: £10 each

http://bandontherunn.com/gigs.html

I am hoping to interview some [or even all!] of the above artistes in the coming months for ELOBF. It would be great to make your acquaintance at one or three of the above concerts. See you there?

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 13-Nov-2011

INTERVIEW: WELSHMANSHILL "'POPARAMA" SPECIAL

2011-11-12T23:54:00.679Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! This article and interview has been in the works for quite a time and comes to you after many long hours of research and effort! Back in May this year I travelled down to the suburbs of northern Birmingham to meet up with the threesome of extraordinary musicians who are also known as: WelshMansHill [WMH]:

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/03/introducing-welshmanshill.html

Phil Hatton [PH]; Steve Turner [ST] and Phil Ridden [PR] are: 'WelshMansHill' and when I made the return journey to the Birmingham heartland of ELO in October; an interview with the band on the then imminent release of their debut album: "Poparama" on 11/11/11 was recorded for ELOBF which [hopefully] will be broadcast soon [in full or in part] by Hamilton Radio; Radio BackTrack as well as the legendary 'Beatles and Beyond' radio programme hosted by Pete Dicks.

My interview with WMH comprised fifteen [15] questions and is now available on CD from ELOBF upon request. I have paraphrased those interview questions and answers below for your perusal!

KJS: WelshMansHill are Phil Hatton; Steve Turner and Phil Ridden [ably assisted by Graham Struggles]. First things first ... why the name “WelshMansHill”?

PH: It's a place where I parked my old 'Commer' camper van once and the name just came to me! It's a lovely place in Sutton Coldfield where we all live and it's a place that has inspired people for hundreds of years.

KJS: Phil Ridden and Steve worked with the late great Brian Connolly of ‘The Sweet’; Graham goes back a long way with ‘Heavyboots’ et al and Phil Hatton has worked with some of the true greats of music including Roy Orbison; most of the Beatles and, of course, Jeff Lynne. But how did Phil; Steve; Phil and Graham get together as WMH?

PR: We've been involved together for 33 years since our first sojourn together as a band to Jersey. We met up again at Phil's dad's funeral three or four years ago, got back in touch with each other; decided to get back into doing music and it's just taken off from there!

ST: Phil Hatton and I have been working together, writing songs and doing bits and pieces for fifteen years or so. We lost touch with Phil [Ridden] for a while, met him at the funeral and just continued from there really! We worked on some of the tracks that we'd got; developed them; got new tracks in and put proper drums on and it materialized into what it is now - the CD!

PH: Some of the ideas for a couple of the songs on: "Poparama" were thought of 33 years ago! Yes, some of the early stuff we did, just a couple of guitar riffs, we put them into a couple of these songs. It's taken a long time! Back then, we were on the ferry going over to Jersey in October to work there for a few months. While we were over there, we were offered a tour supporting 'Tavares' who were a big soul band who we had played with at the 'Top Rank Suite' in Birmingham. And they really liked us. That would have been good but unfortunately we were over in Jersey!

KJS: Who and what are your musical influences and/or heroes?

ST: Mine would be Jimi Hendrix; Led Zeppelin; Free; The Police but there are too many to mention really - but in terms of all-time heroes it has to be Hendrix and probably The Beatles.

PR: Definately the early Beatles/McCartney interest for me, later on in that period The Traveling Wilburys; the Jeff Lynne sort of stuff and the spin-offs with Bob Dylan - that's a big influence. And then up to people like John Hyatt - songwriter - I'm really quite appreciative of that. And even from the early stuff, anything from Black Sabbath onwards really. So really quite an eclectic mix!

PH: I think for me you've got Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett. Then you've got the old big bands, some of them were fantastic like Duke Ellington. What a great dancer and singer was Fred Astaire too! Buddy Rich was great too. All those greats like Nat King Cole - fantastic! Then you go into the Rock 'n' Roll era: Elvis; Buddy Holly ... then you've got The Beatles of course in the sixties and then there's Hendrix and ground breaking bands like Led Zeppelin, The Eagles - another great band, Roy Orbison of course. There such an amalgam of all these guys. You couldn't really pick one because without one, there wouldn't be the others - like dominoes I suppose. Any stuff that's good you can listen to! [Ed: but not Cliff Richard!]

KJS: So how long has “Poparama” been in the making?

WMH: As mentioned earlier; a couple of the riffs go back thirty years but most of the songs go back four or five years. It's a long time ... enough ... there's 'new' material there too!

PH: When you listen to the CD, you can see a lot of work has gone into it. You learn a lot from the best [Jeff Lynne] so you've got to try and make it sound like the best too.

ST: We wanted to be happy with it ourselves before we released it. Consequently that's why there's probably 10 versions of each song on this old computer 'ere! It's a case of fine tuning them week by week until we got to where we are now which is the best we can do!

PR: We've got to let the babies go now!

PH: Yes, we're happy with them all now and I think they all fit nicely with each other. I hope and feel sure that people will like them.

KJS: What then are your hopes for “Poparama”?
PH: We want listeners to like our music because it's something that is different and lasts - because all good tunes do that, really. The good ones last! We've got a load more songs that we're working on. We've got a couple of projects. One is 'The Himalayan Pilots' and the other, of course, is "Poparama II". We are working on those "Poparama II" songs right now - knocking them in to shape for release hopefully in twelve months. We've got some good tunes there.
ST: Basically we want to sell lots and lots of product to get us onto the next level of going around promoting "Poparama" and touring with it, based upon the reaction we get when it's available on November 11th.
PR: It'll be available to buy as a CD or a download via iTunes or amazon MP3.
PH: Yes, something to look forward to!
ST: Christmas number one - that's what we want!
KJS: The eleven [11] songs that make up “Poparama” are: "In Tomorrow's World"; "Alaska"; "Not Really A ..."; "Sunset In The Morning"; "Postmodernist Bluesman"; "Nobody Came"; "Catch A Train"; "When It Rains"; Wendy's Farm"; "Endorphic" and "Getcha". Can you tell us what lies beneath each track?
PH: "Tomorrow's World" is a song of hope and of having things to look forward to. It's a good intro to the album. It's a song to pick people up.
ST: And this is one of the songs where the main riff was stolen from one of those old 'Apathetics' tracks which went back 30 years. As we were working on it, I realized that that riff would fit and we kinda encompassed that as well. It was probably one of the first tracks we did.
PH: It was one of the first songs that we all wrote together. Original - getting away from all the funk stuff back in 1982. A good one to dance to!
ST: "Alaska" came from one of Phil's ideas when he had his camper van! It started as a basic four track thing that Phil put down with the words - I love the words in this song, they're especially good. This is another one of Phil's many songs written in his camper van that he brought to the studio where we developed it.
PH: It's about 'X Factor' and shows like that where you can be a star in a few weeks. And it's not always a good thing as many of them find out later.
PH: "Not Really A ..." is for all the chaps who have been on holiday to Thailand and found out that the girl that they have been talking to is "not really a" girl at all. A lady boy.
ST: It's pretty much tongue-in-cheek. "You're Not Really A Girl" is the full title.
PH: It rocks a long does this song. It's a good one to bang your head to ... especially if you've just been in the company of one of those 'ladies'.
PH: "Sunset In The Morning" ... me and Steve did most of the lyrics with this one. It's about rolling home at 8 'o clock in the morning with the bird song 'full on' and wishing you hadn't been out that night doing what you were doing. A song of regret.
PH: "Postmodernist Bluesman" ... funnily enough the title for that is from a chap I know from years ago from Birmingham when I used to play in a band called 'Heavyboots' with Graham Struggles at 'The Alambra'. I hadn't seen this chap for 40 years or something until I saw him in Erdington where "Mothers" used to be, a really famous nightclub where a lot of top groups played before they became famous. Led Zeppelin; Elton John; Black Sabbath; Moody Blues; ELO - lots of groups. Pink Floyd recorded an album there. This fellow was now a busker and had just come back from France. He gave me this tape recording and the name of this cassette was "Postmodernist Bluesman". We talked about where he had been and "Mothers" so this song is about that chap!
PH: "Nobody Came" is similar to the story about Van Gogh. It's about having a talent - in this case an artist who didn't sell a painting. Nobody got to seeing it. There were no red dots on the frame to show that it was sold and that's part of the song. It's about trying to do something and finding out that even if you've got lots of talent, nobody wants it. Maybe in years to come you'll be appreciated - but not now. But you've got to keep trying.
ST: "Catch A Train" ... another one of Phil's!
PH: It's actually quite a dark song because it's about being addicted to Class A drugs. I always say to stay away from them. because if you get amongst that stuff, it's going to kill you. I've worked with people over the last few years -when I'm not doing music - supporting and counselling people with addiction and mental health problems and I've seen what it does to people so this song tries to warn them off because there isn't a dock leaf to help take away that sting if you get involved with this stuff. So this is a song that will hopefully make people think before using that stuff. That's "Catch A Train".
WMH: So don't catch it!
PH: "When It Rains" ... we got the idea for this - funnily enough - when it was raining ... in Wales! - I was inside a tent at Shell Island ... beautiful place Mochras ... and I got the idea from listening to the rain coming down. "When It Rains" is really about remembering a loved one who isn't there any more and it's about time spent reflecting on that person. If a tear drop goes into a river and that river flows into the sea, that's all part of the rain that one day will fall down on you. And if it's the tear drop of that person, it's something to remind you and refresh your memory. It's a very spiritual song, Keith.
ST: "Wendy's Farm" ... Wendy is the sister of a friend who used to be a roadie with 'The Sweet'. there's no great depth to it - it's just that she had a farm over in Middleton and we went over there three or four years ago. There were some outbuildings that we thought could be a studio hence the name: "Wendy's Farm".
PH: We also thought that it could be a priory type place for people to come to and escape their demons. And that's where we got the idea of people going to "Wendy's Farm" from! "She's the only one that can help".
PH: "Endorphic" is another song that says don't go chasing that thing that you wish you hadn't gone chasing for because it doesn't always turn out right in the end. Whether it's money or love or whatever.
ST: I seem to remember that it was about chasing endorphins ...
PH: Yes ... the things that you get a buzz out of life. Once you've got that 'one', you'll never find it again.
ST: We think Phil has invented his own word in 'endorphic'!
PR: It's a little enjoyable ditty for the end of the album.
PH: The playing on the whole album by Phil and Steve is absolutely top notch. The last song is about lifting your spirits right up, just like the first song: "In Tomorrow's World" ... it's what we wanted to finish the album off with. Quite a few friends have been lifted when they've heard it.
ST: It's a bit of a ditty really ... we were unsure that we were going to include it originally as it didn't fit in with the other tracks but we thought it would be a good song to stick at the end of the album so that it finished on a high note after the 'heavy' tracks.
KJS: If you had to pick a favourite track - what would it be?
ST: I'll say "Sunset In The Morning".
PH: I'd say that as well.
PR: I'd go for "Wendy's Farm" because at the moment I like that production. Steve did a good job on the guitars on that one. Nice simple drumming but it's got a nice spacey, echoey kinda thing on the back end of the guitars ... there's just something else there! Whether it's your own imagination or not - that's my take!
KJS: It's a toss up for me between "Nobody Came" and "When It Rains".
KJS: In my personal opinion; this CD is one of the best I have heard for a very long time. The whole album hangs together very nicely. There is a depth to “Poparama”; a wide range of musical styles and song construction to be found here. I have received much positive feedback as to the songs. WMH appear to be building up a healthy fan base out there on Facebook and internet radio; especially at Hamilton Radio ... what responses have you received to your music?
PR: We've been fortunate in that we've had the same sort of response, people saying the same thing. They like it, they think it's a good album.
ST: Yes, we've had some great responses from people who have heard it at various stages. Also, people on a comparable basis to us who have had more success like Dave Morgan and Richard Tandy really like it.
PH: Richard Tandy phoned me up to say he really liked "Sunset In The Morning". I'm really chuffed that the people in America are 'getting' the music as well. They're not quite sure whether it's an American band or an English band so that's a good thing that maybe we can cross over. People are listening to it and then they are listening to it again and hearing something different every time! I've had a lot of people say that through Facebook and wmhmusic.com ... the interesting thing is that what we meant to do was to make the songs interesting and that's the feedback we are getting. Every time that they listen they are finding another guitar or a keyboard! Also the tunes are sticking in their heads. When you get feedback like that, you think to yourself: "Maybe it's working!"
PR: Yes, we're getting good feedback from other musicians. That's good.

KJS: Phil, I was moved to hear how so very proud you are of your father and “Poparama” is dedicated to him. Can you fill us in with the story of this special man?
PH: My dad passed away five years ago and during the Second World War he was a Royal Naval Commando. And very brave men they were. Only six of them got back from Elbe. My dad was injured and one of the lucky six who got back. Over the years he never used to speak about his time in the war but over the last ten or fifteen years of his life he got back together with the six that returned and they had an association that's finished now because unfortunately they've all passed away. We thought we'd put another song up this November 11th on our web site in support of the Poppy Appeal as last year we got some good coverage in the media here in Birmingham for what we were doing for the appeal. Which is trying to raise money for these brave men who've sacrificed so much.
PR: The guys in those situations don't actually talk about it much. My dad didn't speak about it much at all. He was in the RAF in India during the war. One of my uncles came back ... he was at Arnhem and on the beaches at Dunkerque. Again, it was very rare they spoke about such things. We forget they were a lot younger than we are now. They went through an awful lot. The guys still are.
PH: We're just helping and remembering them.
KJS: Steve and Phil, For me; Brian Connolly was a much under-rated musician and lacked the confidence his talent deserved. Please do tell me about your time working with BC on the road?
ST: How long have you got! It was a great experience because we were relatively young then. It was an eye opener to what it's like at the top level of fame, for the music business really!
PR: Yeah, and what a tough gruel touring can be - as well as fun! But there's lot of hard work there, people don't see what's behind the scenes.
ST: And of course everybody knows that Brian wasn't in the greatest of health when he started 'The New Sweet' or 'BC Sweet' . And of course Phil was the first drummer he had after the demise of the original 'The Sweet' and then we got involved about three months later - that's me and Gary Farmer, the bass player - and it was totally up and down. We'd be having great times one day and the next day would be absolutely dreadful either because of Brian's health or his moods or whatever.
PR: Yeah, and at the same time you tend to remember mainly the good times. Then you can remember we had some great fun! Like the one time in that Berlin hotel we told you about when we last met. We were moving things from one room to another for whatever reason. The roadie was going to sleep on a mattress in my room. Brian saw us all moving stuff about and the next thing we know, he's bringing in lampshades and he's dancing up and down the corridor and then he came in the room wearing the lampshade as a hat! When he joined in doing stuff like that, it was brilliant.
ST: And then there was the time he decided to become the chef when we were in a restaurant in Germany. It was his birthday. I think he was 44 or something like that. He decided to go into the kitchen and came out with the chef's hat on and the whole white gown and everything! He then started serving meals to everyone - that was that kind of guy when he was on form. He could be absolutely hilarious. And then the next day he could be in the absolute depths of depression. But I think what you started the question off with Keith was that underneath it all he was quite an insecure guy. Because of the fame and notoriety he'd experienced, he sort of put on a shell ... a mask ... but underneath I think he was a really nice guy, when you actually got through to the real man. He was a very talented bloke and a nice bloke as well. There's a taste of 'The Sweet' on some of the quicker tracks for sure that will interest all those 'Sweet' fans out there.
KJS: The inevitable question that always surrounds the release of an album is: “When are you guys touring or playing live?” – so what are the gigging plans for WMH?
PR: We're looking at getting other guys involved to actually do it but we've just got to work out in our way who is going to play what. Steve has obviously done a lot of the keyboards and guitars and he can't physically play both!
ST: I could try. I've done it before - very badly! Yes, I think what we're going to do at the moment is gauge what is going to happen when people start buying the album. Obviously then, If there is a demand or need for us to go out and actually start gigging, then we'll go through all the rigours of rehearsing and get other people involved. It's got to be a six piece band to reproduce "Poparama" to anywhere near to the standard of the recording s or anywhere close to it. We've got to do it justice!
PR: We wouldn't want to do it exactly the same as that will be the whole point of doing a live show.
PH: It would take a few weeks to knock a live band into shape but we could go out there and do it for them. If they want us to do it live, we'll be doing it for them. We've done loads of live gigs in our time - myself not for a few years - but Steve and Phil have. Yes, we look forward to going out and playing to people. If they ask us to, we're more than willing to come and play for them in their living rooms!
KJS: Regular visitors to 'ELO Beatles Forever' will doubtless expect a question or two in relation to your work with Jeff Lynne. Has Jeff provided any influence or guidance in the construction of the production or songs for the album - has he heard it?
PH: Yes, Jeff has heard a few of the tracks. He has mentioned that he like a couple of the tracks on there. You're bound to be influenced in some ways when you are working with and for someone like Jeff Lynne. I was Jeff's P.A. for quite a few years and I worked on a lot of recordings that Jeff made. George Harrison's "Cloud Nine", Roy Orbison's "Mystery Girl", both Traveling Wilburys albums, Del Shannon and Julianna Raye. Then again at the end there was The Beatles "Anthology" when Jeff produced "Free As A Bird" and "Real Love". The more recording you do and wherever you work, in a factory for instance, and you are working with the best tool maker, you're bound to pick something up from them. And hopefully we've learned something from Jeff. So when you are together doing your own recordings, you try and make it as good as people who are listening to it would like. As all the greats do, they keep working at it until it's just right. Whether it's the melody or it's the instrumentals - it has got to be just right before they let it out. And you learn all these things as you go along. And of course, when you're working with Jeff Lynne - who is one of the greatest, gifted musicians, producers, arrangers and vocalists - you've got to be very lucky; and a lovely bloke he is too.
KJS: You all go back quite a way in your lives before 'WelshMansHill' with the likes of Jeff Lynne; Brian Connolly and not a few others! But what was the absolute highlight of your music careers - if you had to pick one?
ST: Mine was when we did an album with a band called 'Blackfoot Sue' and we rehearsed for eight or ten weeks to showcase this album. We did a gig at 'The Astoria' in London in 1996 or 1997 and it was probably the best gig I ever did in terms of just the playing and the overall feeling when you come off stage. The buzz. I suppose the second one was a couple of festivals we did with 'BC Sweet' including over in Denmark at the Esbjerg festival, which was superb. A beautiful Summers day with about 40,000 people which was absolutely amazing ... better than sex!
PR: I can't actually think of just the one. Certainly some of the gigs with Brian. I did a couple of things working with some guys doing a David Bowie tribute band called 'Jean Genie'. We did a couple of great gigs at 'The Point' and the 'Olympia Theatre' in Dublin. I did a gig in Gibraltar with a band I was involved with called 'Ghost' - that was a great gig!
PH: I'd say there were a couple actually ... singing backing vocals with George Harrison and Jeff Lynne, Roy Orbison, Del Shannon, all these greats. That to me has been the highlight. I was very lucky to be able to do that and that is a real highlight for me.
KJS: Next - a question I always ask next when ‘interviewing’ for ELOBF: What are your personal favourite ELO tracks?
PR: There's a lot to choose from! Probably two that stand out for me personally. I like "Wild West Hero" because the arrangement, the orchestration and the thing that are going on in that song production wise and I think also the 'B' side to "Livin' Thing" which was "Fire On High" - which when it came out, I was young and thought it was stand alone at that time. It's hard! Not forgetting some of the later stuff with the Wilburys too.
ST: In terms of ELO material, I've got to go with "Mr. Blue Sky" even though I'm an Aston Vanilla fan! A great production and great song.
PH: It's a really difficult one for me, Keith! Going back from Jeff's first ELO album right up to his solo albums, but if you're talking about just ELO then "Midnight Blue" is a beautiful song - no doubt about that. And you've also got "Can't Get It Out Of My Head" - another great song - and I suppose "Strange Magic" has got to be up there - one of the best. But Jeff has done so many I couldn't really say! I could change my mind. And you know the great thing about it all? He writes it all; he produces it all and he arranges it all until he gets it just right. All that music. He's one of the best in the world - no doubt about it.
Graham Struggles: "Wild West Hero". Everybody wants to be a wild west hero. A good story song as much as anything.
KJS: I love "Can't Get It Out Of My Head" ... I love the imagery of "Eldorado" and "Time". But that and "21st Century Man" - just fantastic imagery and mood. On another day you could pick another album and many other ELO songs as your fave!
PH: And not forgetting "Lift Me Up" from "Armchair Theatre"!
KJS: You have kindly made some tracks on “Poparama” available for free download; and this has raised the bands profile somewhat. But please tell us about the ‘official’ release of “Poparama”. When can we expect to purchase the CD?
PR: It's available from our web site at: wmhmusic.com - so by the time this interview goes out; folks will be able to buy a copy as a CD or as a download via iTunes or amazon MP3.
KJS: I would just like to thank all four of you now for participating in this interview for ELO Beatles Forever - a little known blog in deepest; darkest Wolverhampton - signing off!

To summarize; you can buy: "Poparama" by 'WelshMansHill' as a CD from their web site or as a download from iTunes; amazon.co.uk or amazon.com et al. Here are the appropriate links for you to peruse and shop at you leisure and sonic pleasure:

http://wmhmusic.com
iTunes
amazon.co.uk
amazon.com

ELOBF endorses and recommends: "Poparama" as released by 'WelshMansHill' on Friday 11th November 2011 to all music fans who like the: ELO and 'Beatles' genres in particular. In this writers opinion; this is one of the best new albums of 2011.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 12-Nov-2011

BGO TO SPREAD WINGS WITH STEVE HOWARD

2011-11-12T00:49:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Regular visitors to ELOBF will know that quite recently I reviewed the new album by Bubble Gum Orchestra [alias the multi-talented Michael Laine Hildebrandt] entitled: "Out Of This World" and also published an interview with this fine songwriter; musician and producer too.

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/09/introducing-bubble-gum-orchestra.html
http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/10/review-out-of-this-world.html
http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/10/interview-bubble-gum-orchestra.html

Michael [MLH] has recently contacted me with some exciting BGO news that further cements those already strong links between the ELO and Beatles universes and he will be posting this news on his BGO web site and Facebook page soon:

http://bubblegumorchestra.com/fr_thenewsishere.cfm
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bubble-Gum-Orchestra/266337123397356

Former 'Paul McCartney and Wings' trumpet and flugelhorn player [1975-1980] Steve Howard [SH] has just confirmed that he will be performing on a new BGO song for their next new studio album which is due for release late 2012 or early 2013! SH will be recording using the actual horn he used all throughout the "Wings Over America" and "Wings over Europe" tours back in the seventies. This is also the horn he played at Abbey Road Studios for the studio recordings of those classic songs: "Silly Love Songs"; "Let 'Em In" and "Coming Up". The title of that new BGO song is: "Blowin' Away".

MLH told me that he is a personal friend of SH and that he now actually owns THE horn pictured above. The guys over at Blue Violin Studios sent me the above photograph of Paul and SH backstage in Atlanta; Georgia showing Mr. McCartney 'playing' said horn. And you can easily find multiple footage of SH playing the horn with Wings over on YouTube.

SH has recorded with many other great musicians through out his career. MLH told me that he has spent many hours with SH listening to all those great behind-the-scenes Wings stories. MLH also possesses a short video tape of SH recently playing: "Silly Love Songs"; "Let 'Em In" and "Live And Let Die" on that "Sacred Trumpet".

SH also recently guested on the European tour of: 'The Original Blues Brothers Band' during Summer 2011. His current band is entitled: 'The N'AWLINS Gumbo Kings' and you can check out their web site here too:

http://www.gumbokings.com/

MLH is over the moon that he is working with one of his musical heroes. It already is becoming apparent that the second BGO album will be something well worth waiting for! ELOBF endorses 'Bubble Gum Orchestra' to all music fans who like: ELO; 'The Move' and 'The Beatles' genres in particular.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 12-Nov-2011

CAUGHT LIVE [1]: IT'S ONLY ROCK 'N' ROLL

2011-11-11T19:59:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! It was my great pleasure last might to once again venture over to 'The Robin2 R 'n' B Club' in Bilston; Wolverhampton with Christian 'Movember' Evans to check out: "It's Only Rock 'n' Roll" for the very first time.

I have to admit that I didn't know what to expect at first. In my mind's eye I expected a kind of fifties and sixties variety show but what I witnessed was so much more. I think every kind of musical style that emerged from Birmingham in those halcyon days not a few decades ago was showcased last night!

Bev 'Bullfrog' Bevan; Raymond 'Froggie' Froggatt; Geoff Turton; Trevor Burton; Danny King; Hartley Cain; Tony Kelsey; Phil Tree and Brian Badhams contrived and combined to produce a superb musical spectacle where songs from Roy Orbison to Gary Puckett were on show.

Ultimately; the show was underpinned by the great percussion of Bev Bevan and the splendid guitar work of Trevor Burton and Tony Kelsey. But if I were to select my favourite performances of the night - they would be "Hey Joe"; "I Saw Her Standing There"; "I Can Hear The Grass Grow"; "Fire Brigade" and "Something Else".

However, the real peaks of an emotional night were the dedication of that great Buddy Holly song: "True Love Ways" to the late great Kelly Groucutt and the encore rendition of: "Blackberry Way" to the sorely missed Carl Wayne. Add to that fond recollections of great times with Jimi Hendrix and the recently departed Roger Hill and the night was complete.

ELOBF endorses and recommends: "It's Only Rock 'n' Roll" to all music fans who like the: ELO; 'The Move' and 'The Beatles' genres in particular. And should this fantastic show rolls into a venue or theatre near you - Go buy a ticket or three!

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 11-Nov-2011

REVIEW: TAPE RECORDERS CHANGED EVERYTHING

2011-11-09T17:49:00.001Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Whilst there advantages and disadvantages to being out and about over on Facebook [FB]; for me there are not a few positives. I have made some great friends and acquaintances on FB. I've also met some great musicians and one of those talented folks I have engaged with is one Peter Hackett.

http://www.reverbnation.com/cultofwedge
http://cultofwedge.blogspot.com/
http://www.myspace.com/84163472

Peter's debut album entitled: "Tape Recorders Changed Everything" with his musical project/band entitled: 'Cult Of Wedge' has just been released and you can download it via this link for just £4.99 [or individual tracks @ £0.69 each] on practically any format:

http://cultofwedge.bandcamp.com/album/tape-recorders-changed-everything

These words aptly describe the CD: "CULT OF WEDGE ... is the musical alter ego of Pete Hackett. It's a bit like a car crash involving members of: ELO; Genesis; Human League; Kraftwerk; Motorhead and Yes. With John Shaft and Starsky and Hutch being the first on the scene, with Beck and Air driving the ambulances" [end quote]

Ably supported on three [3] of the tracks by the sublime backing vocals of Maxine Dunn [http://www.maxidunn.info/], this ten [10] track album displays more than just the musical influence of our beloved ELO [and those other artistes cited above!]; I can indeed detect Jeff Lynne inspired melodies and arrangements but there is a dab of: 'The Beatles'; 10cc and even Pulp on here too - in this writers opinion. I have to say that this wide ranging and eclectic set of songs adds up to a great debut both in terms of content and production values. There's even a 'Stylophone' on here folks!

From the strong opening song: "The Lemon At The Centre Of The Universe" through to "Malevolent Black Snow" - we hear a set of compositions that are a delight to the ears. Especially after a couple of listens. There are different genres on show here but the beauty of this CD is that variety and those pleasing sonics.And you'd expect that with song titles like: "Christopher Walken"! My personal favourites are: "The Lemon At The Centre Of The Universe"; "Cabaret" [just how many band names can you fit in a song?]; "Tape Recorders Changed Everything" [an affectionate love song to the C-60 and C-90 et al but also a superb track!]; "St. George And The Dragon" and "The Birds And The Bees And Jaime".

I'm pleased to announce that ELOBF will interview Pete in the near future in order to support 'Cult Of Wedge' with this likeable new release. ELOBF recommends: "Tape Recorders Changed Everything" by 'Cult Of Wedge' to all music fans who like the: ELO and 'Beatles' genres in particular.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 09-Nov-2011

RECOMMENDED: IT'S ONLY ROCK 'N' ROLL

2011-11-02T23:05:00.000Z

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Earlier this evening; I nipped over to 'The Robin2 R 'n' B Club' in Bilston near Wolverhampton to grab a couple of tickets for an attractive; upcoming gig at said venue.

http://www.therobin.co.uk/whats_on/giginfo.asp?gigid=2646

"It's Only Rock 'n' Roll" rolls into Bilston on Thursday 10th November 2011 at 8:30PM and ELOBF shall be in attendance to witness the talents of [amongst other most notable Midlands musicians!] Bev Bevan and Trevor Burton. This two [2] hour show has arisen from the ashes of its predecessor: "Brum Rocks - Live!". It's a bigger band with more content and variety.

"We wanted to build on the success of "Brum Rocks" and take that great band 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. It was important that when we put the band together we had people that loved Rock 'n' Roll, and that is exactly what we got, a band 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 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". [Show producer Brian Yeates]

"It's Only Rock 'n' Roll" features: Bev Bevan [The Move - ELO - Black Sabbath]; Raymond Froggatt [Legendary UK Country and Folk Singer]; Geoff Turton [The Rockin’ Berries - Jefferson]; Trevor Burton [The Move - Steve Gibbons Band]; Hartley Cain [The Raymond Froggatt Band] and last but not least Danny King [Birmingham’s First 'Pop Star'] and is fully endorsed by ELOBF. See you there?

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 02-Nov-2011

CAUGHT ON CANVAS: BEV BEVAN by DEBRA DEE

2011-10-19T21:49:00.010+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Debra Dee is a fantastic Australian artiste who has produced this excellent portrait of our very own Bev Bevan - co-founder [of course!] of The Move; ELO and ELO Part II.

And "Here Is The News" folks: Debra has given me permission to publish this ELOBF article because the above Bev Bevan portrait is now available to purchase either as a Limited Edition 24" x 18" print on canvas or as an A4 sized print on quality cardboard.

Furthermore; the 24" x 18" print is limited to just fifty [50] pieces and comes with a Certificate of Authenticity. The larger print is priced at £250 or $500 [US/AUSD] plus postage and the A4 print is attractively priced at £25 or $50 [US/AUSD] plus postage. You can buy either or both options from Debra Dee at: debra-dee@bigpond.com

STOP PRESS: Debra Dee has just informed me that each of those 24" x 18" prints will be personally signed by the man himself - Bev Bevan! All the more reason to open up your cheque books for that special gift or forward-looking investment!

Debra is also planning further projects involving members of that classic ELO line-up. I will publish more news nearer the time. ELOBF is proud to support the artistry of Debra Dee.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 19-Oct-2011

INTERVIEW: BUBBLE GUM ORCHESTRA

2011-10-18T20:30:00.000+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! A very warm welcome to Michael Laine Hildebrandt [MLH] who is - to all intensive purposes - the 'Bubble Gum Orchestra' [BGO] - for this long-distance interview on ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF]! We are all impressed with your debut release: "Out Of This World" [OOTW] Michael. Whilst it cannot be said to be a parody of ELO’s "Out Of The Blue" [OOTB]; there are so many references to that album and ELO signature themes and immense back catalogue of songs!

KJS: So - for me - the first question has to be: Why is your project named 'Bubble Gum Orchestra'?

MLH: I thought the name: 'Bubble Gum Orchestra' was very unique and different. It captured everything I was wanting to write about. It really opened the flood gates of my imagination and creativity allowing me to compose songs based on the catchy semi-orchestrated pop rock that I truly love. I definitely believe the songs reflect and capture the name: 'Bubble Gum Orchestra'.

KJS: Hot on the heels of that question must be: Just who is ‘Agnes’?

MLH: I thought you might be asking me that one…seems to be a very popular question. OK, Here we go ... The names mentioned in: "Agnes Is Back" are my high school friends. We always loved all the ELO albums and were really mesmerized by the beginning of: "Fire On High” with all the backwards messaging. We knew it was saying something in reverse but did not know what?! So we thought the first words you hear in: "Fire On High” were saying: "Agnes, Agnes, Agnes ... In the odds of it all the servers in ... is in ebith”! Agnes became this [almost] "Livin' Thing” that meant great times with our friends while listening to ELO. Agnes will always live strong in every one of us!

!ereH saW namrehtaeL

KJS: Reading the liner notes on the album; it appears you play 95% of the instruments and that you have written all 17 tracks. That’s a huge undertaking! What was your personal inspiration for this project Michael?

MLH: I hear all the different parts of a song in my head when I am writing it. They are usually fighting to get from my brain to my fingers as fast as they can and then to whatever instrument I am recording. It comes natural for me to just go ahead, get in the studio and record the songs myself. Mr. Lynne has always been a big inspiration in my song writing. I am very much amazed on how he composed: "Out Of The Blue" in three weeks or so! Very mind blowing! This is why I composed 17 songs on this BGO album. I always wanted to see what it would be like to attempt such a big feat. You are right, it was a huge undertaking ... almost two years from start to finish. I always knew I would do it, and now just seemed like the right time to bring it all to life. 'McCartney I' was written and recorded all by Paul ... that was also very inspiring to me as well as the likes of Dave Grohl writing and recording his first CD by himself.

KJS: Where are you based? Can you tell us about any other members of contributors to BGO?

MLH: When the BGO Blue Violin Spaceship returns from a "Mission", it docks in Dallas, Texas, USA. There are no other BGO members at this time although a full blown band could happen at any moment if the stars all line up with the satellites. As of this interview, Michael Laine Hildebrandt is 'Bubble Gum Orchestra'!

KJS: We can all see your musical influences on this fantastic album. But are ELO at their peak and the song writing of Jeff Lynne your only inspirations musically and lyrically?

MLH: Mr. Lynne is obviously a huge inspiration. But there are many, many more artists and bands that I have been inspired by. The Beatles, The Carpenters, The Moody Blues, Queen, The Cars, Chicago, Toto, Charlie, Naked Eyes, The Bee Gees and Blanket Of Secrecy - just to name some. There are many more but this gives you a small window of what musically turns me on. When asked, I always say my favourite English band is ELO and my favorite American band is Boston.

KJS: And how did those musical influences shape: 'Bubble Gum Orchestra'?

MLH: Simply said, the common denominator of all my favourite bands and Bubble Gum Orchestra is the love of catchy melodies and lyrics that people can relate to.

KJS: A common interview question next! Which came first – the music or the lyrics?

MLH: Just depends ... I am an avid long distant runner/marathoner so I take a digital recorder out on long runs and usually come up with some lyrics and a melody. I get a pure, focused clarity when I run and the songs just start writing themselves. A lot of the tempos of the 17 BGO songs are at the speed in which I was running at the time. I composed about 70% of the songs on OOTW while out on the "Long and Winding Roads" of Texas. Sometimes I’ll sit down with an instrument, and write the music first ... violins, cellos and violas really get the ideas flowing!

KJS: "Out Of This World" is an ELO-esque treasure. Complete with synthesized strings and loads of backward [and forward!] "Secret Messages" ... this must have been a fun album to record Michael?

MLH: Absolutely ... I love to book the time and get into Blue Violin Studios, fire up all the machinery, start pressing knobs, sliding levers and begin creating. I guess I am like the man behind the curtain controlling the "Almighty" 'Wizard Of Oz'. Oh yes, the backward and forward "Secret Messages" are heard throughout OOTW ... I have always admired the way Mr. Lynne incorporated all the little bits of backwards messages here and there along with Prologues and Epilogues and orchestrated intros into all of those great classic ELO songs ... It's those little details that that I loved with ELO and what I believe is sorely missing in today’s somewhat sterile current music scene. My goal was to bring back a little bit of yesteryears glory and re-introduce listeners [new and old] to the long lost style of songs we all remembered and loved. I basically wanted to start Bubble Gum Orchestra's OOTW where ELO’s OOTB left off at. Who knows, someone, somewhere, someday might refer to BGO as ... "son of ELO"?!

KJS: So what are your aspirations for OOTW? What has been the feedback to your promotional tour; the new web site and first single: “Night In Shangri-La”?

MLH: I want to get Bubble Gum Orchestra introduced to the masses! From all of the positive feedback we have received from our new friends and fans all over the world, I truly believe we can find our niche and a home with listeners if we can just be heard. Our new BGO website [http://bubblegumorchestra.com/fr_thenewsishere.cfm] has been very well received also. Everyone has been so kind, and I really appreciate all the ELOve we have received!

KJS: Are you getting regular air play out there in FM land?

MLH: "Night In Shangi-La" ... the first single, is currently being featured and played on a daily basis on 25 FM Radio stations play lists from all around the world just after two weeks of being released. More stations are adding our song on a daily and weekly basis. We feel fortunate and humbled by all the attention this song is getting on the radio and throughout the satellites.

KJS: Are there plans to take BGO out on the road? To the US and beyond ... even England?

MLH: No current plans for a tour but you never, ever know what tomorrow might bring. I love playing live and the thought of performing these songs with a symphony orchestra is a great dream to possibly achieve in the future. Wow ... 'Bubble Gum Orchestra' "Live in Concert" with a symphony orchestra ... sounds good doesn’t it! If we hit the road, England will be one of the stops!

KJS: The seventeen [17] songs that make up OOTW are: “Agnes Is Back”; “Night In Shangri-La”; “Lights Over London”; “Lonely Girl”; “Reversible Relationships”; “Yesterday Tomorrow Tonight”; “Goodbye My Old Friend”; “Where Are You Now”; “Sky Has Turned Blue”; [Concerto For A Sad Day]: “Feeling Down”; “The Wheels Keep On Turnin'”; “Summer Day”; “Happy Song”; “Girl I'm Gonna Miss You”; “Sunrise In Spain”; “All I Wanna Do” and “Love Never Goes As Planned” ... can you give us a brief summary of these songs and what they are about?

MLH: I won’t get into dissecting all the songs meanings but my stock answer I give when people ask what they are about, I tell them ... Only one song on this album is about someone I have known. A secret message might give the listener a clue to what song this is but I doubt if anyone will figure it out [except for her]. I composed all rest of the songs on OOTW as if I were up in the mighty BGO Blue Violin Mother Ship travelling throughout our great world looking down randomly into peoples lives and then writing about what I had observed. Usually love, life and everything that goes with it ... the happy, the sad and all the emotions in between. I write songs that people can relate to. I want the listener to perceive my music and lyrics as they want to, hopefully relating them to their own lives and connecting to the lyrics, melodies and the overall "feel" of the song.

KJS: And if you had to pick a favourite track on OOTW – what would it be?

MLH: All 17 songs are so embedded in my mind and soul that I cannot answer this question with a one song answer. They all have a special place in my heart and my spirit. I hope the listener connects and feels like I did when I wrote them.

KJS: What will be the next BGO project Michael? Can you give us a clue or three?

MLH: Yes I can ... First of all, I am going to promote OOTW until the rocket thrusters fall off the mighty BGO ship and we reach the masses. After that ... well, I have been feeling creative lately and have five songs composed and recorded [except for vocals] that will be on the next release. There will be 10 or 11 total songs on the second BGO album. I am naming the next album ... drum roll please ... 'Bubble Gum Orchestra II'! Surprise, surprise ... It just seemed like the obvious choice.

KJS: Now – here is a question that I always ask next when ‘interviewing’ for ELOBF: What are your personal favourite ELO [and Beatles] tracks?

MLH: There is not enough space on this page to give a complete answer so I will just give one song for each band ... The Beatles: "And I Love Her" and for ELO: "Need Her Love".

KJS: ELOBF have introduced BGO and reviewed OOTW already:

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/09/introducing-bubble-gum-orchestra.html

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/10/review-out-of-this-world.html

Michael; could you please remind ELOBF readers [and listeners] just how to get a hold of “Out Of This World” by Bubble Gum Orchestra?

MLH: You can obviously visit those ELOBF articles or our BGO web site at: http://bubblegumorchestra.com/fr_thenewsishere.cfm to buy the record from amazon.com; iTunes or CD Baby. A very big 'Thank You' to ELOBF for all of your support! We appreciate you! Michael Laine Hildebrandt [BGO]

I would like to extend my appreciation and thanx to Michael Laine Hildebrandt for participating in this interview. ELOBF recommends: "Out Of This World" by 'Bubble Gum Orchestra' to all music fans who like: ELO; 'The Move' and 'The Beatles' genres in particular.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 18-Oct-2011

THE ESSENCE OF ELO BEATLES FOREVER

2011-10-15T21:24:00.002+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Most of you know that the original inspiration for my ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] blog was that enigmatic rare ELO track entitled: "Beatles Forever" from the ELO "Secret Messages" sessions in 1982-83. And ELOBF has indeed expanded in scope since then. But I thought it apt to remember not only that great song and even the fact that: "I Am The Walrus" was the inspiration for Roy Wood and Jeff Lynne to create the Electric Light Orchestra [ELO].

It's also important to remember what one of those 'Fab Four' once uttered themselves. On Saturday 28th September 1974; John Lennon made that now famous statement on NYC radio station WNEW-FM wherein he said that ELO were the "son of Beatles". Here is the transcript of those words. I need add no more:

"We're gonna play Electric Light Orchestra from last year - "Showdown" - which I thought was a great record and I was expecting it to be number one but I don't think UA got their fingers out and pushed it. And it's a nice group. I call them 'son of Beatles' - although they're doing things that we never did, obviously. But I remember the statement they made when they first formed was to carry on where 'The Beatles' left off with "Walrus" - and they certainly did ..." [end quote]

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 15-Oct-2011

RECOMMENDED: ROY WOOD'S MUSIC BOOK

2011-10-15T00:04:00.001+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! With many thanx to the fantastic: A JEFF LYNNE AND RELATED BLOG: [http://unofficialjefflynne.blogspot.com/] and Toshiki Komeda of the ELO Move [Japan] Facebook group [http://www.facebook.com/groups/129627970449549/]; ELOBF has news of a new; comprehensive Roy Wood 2CD compilation entitled: "Music Book" which has a designated release date of 14th November 2011:

http://www.spincds.com/coming-soon/music-book-2cd

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Music-Book-Roy-Wood/dp/B005VOR4TU/ref=sr_1_5?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1318631513&sr=1-5

This 36 track compilation explores Roy's career from 'The Move' through ELO and 'Wizzard' to even a couple of covers of two [2] of his classic compositions by 'Status Quo' and Nancy Sinatra! There's also room for his solo work too and his many collaborations.

Spin CD's are quoting a price of £11.99 each for the package whilst amazon.co.uk are citing a price of £14.99 each at present. So whatever price you pay; this looks like a great overview of Roy's much under-rated musical legacy ... and just in time for your Christmas wish lists too!

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 15-Oct-2011

NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN MIKE EDWARDS CASE [2]

2011-10-14T20:35:00.001+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! I received [another] telephone call this evening from my roving reporter down in South Devon - Pete Reynolds - informing me that there has been a further development in the sad story of the unlucky and tragic demise of former ELO cellist Mike Edwards:

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/09/new-developments-in-mike-edwards-case.html

The 'latest' news is that the outcome of the hearing held at Torquay magistrates court today [which was adjourned from 30th September] has now given the two [2] defendants - farmer Brian Burden and agricultural contractor Russell Williams - bail until 2nd December. The case continues.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 14-Oct-2011

YouBloom UPDATE: PLEASE VOTE AGAIN FOR "RAIN"!

2011-10-10T20:54:00.000+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! ELOBF is indeed very pleased to inform you that the superb song: "Rain" as written; produced and performed by 'Groucutt and Haynes' [GH] in the YouBloom 2011 Music Awards not only finished in the Top 12 and qualified for the Q3 Semi-Final; it has been voted by the esteemed panel of four [4] judges through to the Q3 Final!

The guys are now competing in that Q3 Final in their bid to progress in; [hopefully] win the competition and the £10,000 first prize. There are 6 artistes in this latest round and the Top 4 will progress to the Annual Semi-Final; where they will compete with the Top 4 songs from the Q1 and Q2 Finals.

There are several more stages to negotiate before GH can battle it out for that winners trophy and - yes - it is convoluted! Hence - GH need you to vote for them again folks! So please pass on this 'Message From The [Black] Country' onto your friends and family!

To reaffirm - I'm absolutely sure that there loads of ELO [and Beatles] fans and admirers out there who would be thrilled to see local; talented musicians garner some acknowledgement for their efforts. I know that Kelly Groucutt [Rob's father] would be out there promoting them if he were still here with us. So please consider voting again for this song and pass the message along by Facebook; Twitter; word of mouth or any other method!

All you need to do is to 'Join' by creating a user name; a password and citing your email address. Thank you so very much for taking the time to vote again and again! You can listen to and vote for their entry by clicking the link below:

http://www.youbloom.com/ybsc/entry/2765/

ELOBF recommends 'Groucutt and Haynes' to all music fans who like the ELO and Beatles genres.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 10-Oct-2011

RECOMMENDED: THE CLASSIC [ELO] ALBUMS COLLECTON

2011-10-08T13:57:00.002+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Back on the 7th September I posted a blog entitled: HERE IS THE [NEW RELEASE] NEWS in which I mentioned the forthcoming dual ELO releases: 'The Essential Electric Light Orchestra' [UK; 2CD] and 'The Classics Album Collection' [US; 11CD]:

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/09/here-is-new-release-news.html

And since that article; there have been some release developments in that there are now a variety of outlets offering the eleven [11] CD boxed set but they do not necessarily seem to agree in terms of price; release date or even content:

http://www.spincds.com/the-classic-albums-collections-11-cd-set

http://www.popmarket.com/electric-light-orchestra-the-classic-albums-collection/details/25966404

http://www.amazon.co.uk/Classic-Albums-Collection-Electric-Orchestra/dp/B005LTDPJI

http://www.amazon.de/Classic-Albums-Collection-Electric-Orchestra/dp/tracks/B005LTDPJI

Spin CD's have the release date as October 24th and priced @ £31.99; Pop Market have the release date as October 15th but price it @ £49.99 and amazon.co.uk have the release date as November 14th and priced @ £29.99! So there is a variety of choices out there. But the really interesting thing is that amazon.de in Germany are stating that it is a 12CD set that includes: "Zoom" @ €38.99 and even includes the track listing it! But however you buy it - one thing is for sure - it looks like a nice set for the ELO completist and for the ELO novice to buy too. It features expanded versions of all the ELO albums between 1971 and 1986 [except for: "Xanadu"] - but probably not: "Zoom"! And you will only get this compilation in this form because it is a US release because here in the UK; SonyBMG do not own the rights to the first two ELO [2] albums. Welcome to the ELO show folks!

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 08-Oct-2011

ELOBF GIG GUIDE [6]

2011-10-07T17:19:00.004+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Autumn into Winter 2011/2012 is shaping up to be a great season for ELO and Beatles related gigs here in the Midlands of England. Here are some selected dates for you to peruse and consider your attendance at:

Trevor Burton

http://www.thetrevorburtonband.co.uk/

Saturday 14th October 2011

'The BeatBack Brothers' @ the 'Great Western'; Coseley [Free]

http://www.myspace.com/beatbackbrothers

Thursday 3rd November 2011

'The ELO Experience' @ 'The Winding Wheel'; Chesterfield

Tickets: £15 [Auditorium] or £18 [Circle]

http://www.elotribute.com/giglist/search/search.php

Friday 4th November 2011

'The ELO Experience' @ 'The Victoria Hall'; Stoke-on-Trent

Tickets: £19.50 [concessions]or £21.50 [adult]

http://www.elotribute.com/giglist/search/search.php

Thursday 10th November 2011

'Its Only Rock 'n' Roll' featuring Bev Bevan; Trevor Burton et al @ 'The Robin 2'; Bilston

Tickets: £20 [advance] or £22 [door]

http://www.therobin.co.uk/whats_on/giginfo.asp?gigid=2646

Wednesday 16th November 2011

'Its Only Rock 'n' Roll' featuring Bev Bevan; Trevor Burton et al @ 'The Garrick'; Lichfield

Tickets: £19.50

http://www.lichfieldgarrick.com/Shows/Its-Only-Rock-and-Roll/

Saturday 26th November 2011

'The Roy Wood Rock 'n' Roll Band' @ 'The Robin 2'; Bilston

Tickets: £15 [advance] or £16 [door]

http://www.therobin.co.uk/whats_on/giginfo.asp?gigid=2559

Saturday 3rd December 2011

'The BeatBack Brothers' @ the 'Goodyear Pavillion'; Wolverhampton [Free]

http://www.myspace.com/beatbackbrothers

Sunday 4th December 2011

'Band On The Runn' @ 'The River Rooms'; Stourbridge

Tickets: £5 each

http://bandontherunn.com/gigs.html

Saturday 10th December 2011

'The Phil Bates and Tina McBain Christmas Show' @ Middleton Hall; Tamworth

Tickets: £13.50 each

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/09/welcome-to-phil-bates-and-tina-mcbain.html

Saturday 24th December 2011

'The Cavern Beatles' @ 'The Robin 2'; Bilston

Tickets: £10 [advance] or £12 [door]

http://www.therobin.co.uk/whats_on/giginfo.asp?gigid=2692

Friday 27th January 2012

'Band On The Runn' @ 'The Kingfisher'; Kingswinford

Tickets: £10 each

http://bandontherunn.com/gigs.html

The above list is certainly not exhaustive but hopefully it's useful. I do hope to interview some of the above artistes in the coming weeks and months for ELOBF. It would be great to make your acquaintance at one or three of the above concerts. See you there?

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 07-Oct-2011

HERE IS THE NEWS [7]

2011-10-06T21:43:00.000+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! It's been a busy week at ELOBF Towers because there has been a peak of ELOBF related activity going on out there!

Hot on the heels of last months visit to: 'The Cavern' to see BBBV; it seems there has been an ELOBF flavour to the first week of October. There were those two [2] gigs last weekend by 'The ELO Experience' and 'The Trevor Burton Band'. I've also received my copy of: "Out Of This World" by 'Bubble Gum Orchestra' [BGO]. On top of that; I've rediscovered: "Symphonic Beatles" as recorded by Louis Clark and the RPO [1999] from my CD collection whilst also hearing from Pete Dicks from the 'Beatles and Beyond' radio show about the charity album: "LovePower and Peace" that features Pete Haycock. There's also been time to recommend that fantastic Paul McCartney tribute band: 'Band On The Runn' and receive my long awaited copy of that great 1984 album by Julian Lennon entitled: "Valotte" which [to my surprise!] features our very own 'Honest Man' Eric Troyer. Add to that an appeal towards a new film about 'Chicago' guitarist Terry Kath [highlighted by Laura Lynne for her friend Michelle Kath Sinclair's project] and you can see that it's been a full and varied week! Those links and ties between ELO and 'The Beatles' really do run deep folks! Hence, a blog entitled: ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] is indeed quite apt! Please feel free to peruse this weeks articles here:

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/10/caught-live-4-elo-experience.html
http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/10/caught-live-2-trevor-burton-band.html
http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/10/review-out-of-this-world.html
http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/10/in-support-of-searching-for-terry.html
http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/10/recommended-lovepower-and-peace.html
http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/10/recommended-band-on-runn.html

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 06-Oct-2011

RECOMMENDED: BAND ON THE RUNN

2011-10-05T20:33:00.001+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Earlier this year; ELOBF was pleased to introduce you to a new and exciting Paul McCartney [Beatles; Wings and solo] tribute band entitled: 'BAND ON THE RUNN' [BOTR] and review their first ever gig:

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/06/caught-live-1-band-on-run.html

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/05/introducing-band-on-runn.html

The band has now fully enabled their web site and are taking bookings - not only in the West Midlands - but also further afield. So please feel free to peruse their great new web site at:

http://www.bandontherunn.com/

Yours truly shall hopefully be attending their gigs at: 'The River Rooms' in Stourbridge on Sunday 4th December 2011 and: 'The Kingfisher' in Kingswinford on Friday 13th January 2012. I look forward to many and more gigs being announced in the near future. Your interest and support is much appreciated by BOTR. Henceforth - only one [1] question remains: Will you be there?

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 05-Oct-2011

RECOMMENDED: LOVEPOWER and PEACE

2011-10-05T19:52:00.004+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! My good friend Pete Dicks - the producer; director; chief bottle washer and presenter of that excellent internet and AM/FM radio show: "Beatles and Beyond" [http://beatlesandbeyond.homestead.com/] - has alerted me to a new charity album entitled: "LovePower and Peace" which has just been released by: 'Robin George's LovePower' on Angel Air Records. Robin is a former member of Roy Wood's 'Helicopters'.You can order the CD from here:

http://www.angelair.co.uk/sjpcd357.htm

http://www.robingeorge.co.uk/

What may be of interest to ELO [and related artists] followers is that this new CD features supreme slide guitarist and former ELO Part II founding member: Pete Haycock. We haven't seen much of Pete in the ELO universe since his departure in 1993 but I thought that his participation in this project was of note to those of us who appreciated his input on both record and stage with that original ELO Part II line-up.

The album also features a variety of songs and artistes and includes a Beatles tribute song described as: "... a stonking cover of 'With A Little Help From My Friends' ..." by the web site: 'Sea Of Tranquility'

[source: http://www.seaoftranquility.org/reviews.php?op=showcontent&id=10875]

The profits from this album will support the work of three [3] charities: BCAT [http://www.bcat.info/]; Haven House [http://www.havenhouse.org.uk/] and Wolverhampton's very own: Compton Hospice [http://www.compton-hospice.org.uk/].

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 05-Oct-2011

IN SUPPORT OF: "SEARCHING FOR TERRY"

2011-10-05T19:03:00.001+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! A friend of mine over on Facebook asked me to help publicize this noble cause that is being championed by Laura Lynne for her friend Michelle Kath Sinclair - who has set up a 'Kickstarter' page in order to raise the necessary funds for the production of a new film entitled: "Searching For Terry". The film will explore the life and musical times of her father Terry Kath; legendary guitarist from that much-loved band: Chicago:

The project goal is $40,000 and at the time of writing nearly 25% has been raised. Any pledges will go towards fifteen [15] days of shooting which will include the crew [camera and sound experts]; equipment rental and purchases; travel expenses for crew and/or interviewees, and editor assistant. Any monies raised above and beyond this will finance post production, marketing and promotion. For further details on all the pledge gifts; please feel free to visit these two [2] web sites:

www.terrykath.com

http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/terrykath/searching-for-terry-discovering-a-guitar-legend

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 05-Oct-2011

REVIEW: OUT OF THIS WORLD

2011-10-04T20:35:00.003+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! When I initially heard [my thanks are extended to Jim Hoban; Shaz Pratt and ELO Espana] about a new ELO-themed CD being released by Bubble Gum Orchestra [BGO] entitled: "Out Of This World" [OOTW]; I have to admit that I wasn't sure whether it was a tribute or a parody [in the same vein as 'The Rutles' or 'Spinal Tap'] of that classic 1977 ELO double album: "Out Of The Blue" [OOTB]. Upon further investigation; it became pretty clear pretty quickly that this new CD - despite the bow to OOTB in similarities of artwork; graphics and even the number of tracks! - was the former:

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/09/introducing-bubble-gum-orchestra.html

So when a promo copy of OOTW arrived at ELOBF Towers yesterday morning all the way from Texas; USA; thanks to the kindness of its creator Michael Laine Hildebrandt - and with a bad back preventing me from doing anything but listen to it - I had an ideal opportunity to make myself familiar with this production. OOTW is a tribute - first and foremost - to the ELO genre; sound and imagery as well as the song writing and production prowess of Jeff Lynne.

But it is also a remarkable example of the musical talent of Mr. Hildebrandt who - with a little help from his friends - has written; performed; recorded and produced this great album in deference to his love of the seventies heyday of string-swept; orchestral classic rock music.

The whole album is musically and lyrically replete with references to our favourite ELO songs both in terms of song titles and themes as well as the bridges and orchestral [although synthesized] underpinning we came to expect back then [and even now]. The songs about all things light; blue; rain; sunshine; regret and love do strike a chord to the staid ELO fan.

We've already seen: "Bat Out Of Hell II"; "Bat Out Of Hell III" ; "Tubular Bells II" and even "Tubular Bells III" - so if you wanted to have an idea of what an: "Out Of The Blue II" might have sounded like - this CD at least gives you an insight into that. Here are my thoughts on those seventeen [17] tracks for you to peruse:

[#1] Agnes Is Back: An intro where the backward messages of "Fire On High" and "Secret Messages" meet head on is followed by a great up-beat opener citing not a few ELO song titles.

[#2] Night In Shangri-La: the lead single from the album also citing those ELO tracks and very catchy!

[#3] Lights Over London: 'B' side of the lead single and full of love lorn angst.

[#4] Lonely Girl: familiar themes of lonely nights and long distance love via the telephone.

[#5] Reversible Relationships: recalls the yearning of time travel backwards to better days.

[#6] Yesterday Tomorrow Tonight: Nice drum work here in a song of starry nights and a world of blue and sunny days gone wrong.

[#7] Goodbye My Old Friend: A song not dissimilar in construction to "Hello My Old Friend" with those broken interludes but also reminiscent of "Time" with those "Yellow jackets in purple flowers".

[#8] Where Are You Now: Without a doubt this song gives a huge nod to "Believe Me Now" from OOTB and at the same time a really nice piece of work.

[#9] Sky Has Turned Blue: Filled with references to those familiar ELO topics of sky and blue; "The Way Life's Meant To Be" and fate.

[#10] Concerto For A Sad Day - Feeling Down: Another nod - this time to "Concerto For A Rainy Day" - but this song urges you to "Hold On Tight" to your dreams even when you're down.

[#11] The Wheels Keep On Turnin': The only similarity to "Big Wheels" here is in the title ... but this is a lovely song that reminds me more of "It's Over".

[#12] Summer Day: Replete with [finally] a reference to Bubble Gum! This song is a jolly confident song of the hope of returning love.

[#13] Happy Song: This song is a bubbly tribute to "Mr. Blue Sky" in all but name ... a marvellous ditty!

[#14] Girl I'm Gonna Miss You: Nice vocal work on this one both in the fore and background as we witness that "summer came and passed away" and a love has departed.

[#15] Sunrise In Spain: An instrumental song where "Letter From Spain" meets "Across The Border" in part with its flamenco [and Texan!] influences!

[#16] All I Wanna Do: With an intro that alludes to the sonic resonance of "The Whale"; this song is a forlorn item of few lyrics in the same style as "Letter From Spain".

[#17] Love Never Goes As Planned: This sweet final track quotes "Times holds the answers" and "The stars that keep us dreaming" as a nice piece of guitar work with plucked strings sails on bemoaning the quirky ways of love.

This album should find a home and fit quite nicely in any ELO fans record collection. I like it for what it is. A tribute to those light fantastic and heady days of 1977-78 when ELO and "Out Of The Blue" ruled the world! "Out Of This World"Hildebrandt displays through this work of ELOve! You can order the CD or download the album in part or as a whole from these reputable sellers:

http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/bubblegumorchestra

http://itunes.apple.com/album/out-of-this-world/id468285573?l=ja&v0=9988&ign-mpt=uo%3D1

http://www.amazon.com/Out-of-This-World/dp/B005Q5FRDO/ref=sr_shvl_album_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1317397018&sr=301-1

I'm pleased to announce that ELOBF will be conducting a long distance interview with Michael and BGO in the near future in order to ask a not a few questions about the project and to support BGO with this likable and enjoyable new release. ELOBF recommends: "Out Of This World" by Bubble Gum Orchestra to all music fans who like: ELO; 'The Move' and 'The Beatles' genres in particular.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 04-Oct-2011

CAUGHT LIVE [2]: THE TREVOR BURTON BAND

2011-10-02T19:53:00.001+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Sometimes you make a last minute decision and it pays off big time! Last Saturday night 1st October; I travelled up the thirty [30] odd miles to 'The Waterfront' @ Barton Marina; Barton-under-Needwood in sizzling Staffordshire from the centre of the universe [Wolverhampton] with my brother and niece to attend my second gig by: 'The Trevor Burton Band' [TTBB] featuring [not surprisingly!] guitarist and vocalist Trevor Burton [founding member of 'The Move' from 1966-1969] and his band who are: Bill Jefferson [drums/percussion] and Pez Connor [bass guitar/backing vocals]:

http://www.thetrevorburtonband.co.uk/

On a warm October night astride Barton Marina [http://www.bartonmarina.co.uk/p0_0_0.htm]; this compact and family-like three [3] piece band - fronted by this legend of a blues guitarist who is sadly not given nearly enough local or national recognition for his talents - belted out a wide range of blues [plus one or two rock 'n'roll!] songs that gave the audience a flavour - in TBBB's own Trevor-led style - of the influence of and his friendship with Jimi Hendrix [as he recalled himself on the night].

The band were again very tight. It was truly amazing to see the dynamics of this trio as Trevor's two band mates waited on every chord played by TB. The power percussion of Bill and the driving heartbeat of Pez' bass playing were a joy to behold. Even though they were [musically] in awe of TB; it really was like watching big brother playing with his two 'younger' charges.

Last night; TBBB delivered a thirteen [13] minute version of: "Sunshine Of Your Love”; a fantastic encore of Bruce Springsteen's: "No Surrender"; a tribute to Buddy Holly with: "Peggy Sue" plus Wilson Pickett's: "634-5678"; his own: "Down Down Down" [recorded by Dave Edmunds] and Hendrix' own: "Hey Joe" amongst not a few others. But to this writer; the highlight of the night had to be getting to finally hear the famed TBBB version of: "Werewolves Of London"! My many thanx are extended to Mr. Pez Connor! Here is a taster of that version for you to appreciate from a 2009 performance at The Legends Blues Club in Tamworth; England:

ELOBF recommends that you go see the: 'The Trevor Burton Band' should they play a gig near you. ELOBF also endorses the: 'The Trevor Burton Band' to all music fans who like: ELO; 'The Move' and 'The Beatles' genres in particular.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 02-October-2011

CAUGHT LIVE [4]: THE ELO EXPERIENCE

2011-10-02T12:03:00.001+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Last Friday 30th September; it was an easy decision to drive the ten [10] miles or so to Cannock; Staffordshire [and take my daughter Rebekah too!] to another concert by the: 'ELO Experience' - this time live at the Prince of Wales Theatre.

As ever; we witnessed another accurate; exuberant and professional show performed by a band who are now - in the absence of UK touring these last two [2] years by: 'The Orchestra' [former members of ELO and ELO Part II] - filling the gap [so to speak] and satisfying the appetite of those fans who earnestly desire to hear the music of ELO performed live whilst doing justice to the bands sonic heritage.

The band perform an outstanding version of: "Standin' In The Rain" that leaves the knowledgeable in the audience expecting the transition into: "Big Wheels" like a hand in a glove before abruptly halting! In an expansive set list that ranged from 1972's: "Roll Over Beethoven" to 1986's: "Calling America"; the highlights [for me] were a stomping: "Diary Of Horace Wimp"; a rip-roaring: "Showdown" and their crowd pleasing encore of: "Mr. Blue Sky". But once again; their rendition of: "Don't Walk Away" - fittingly dedicated to the late; great Kelly Groucutt - was simply breathtaking and stole the show! The band have matured both in terms of production; sound and cohesion with the addition of their two [2] cellists and lack only an excitable violinist to complete the picture!

I had the chance to chat with one or three band members after the gig and the conversation naturally came around to what songs they were going to attempt next. I'm excited at the prospect of the: 'ELO Experience' covering such ELO classics as: "Can't Get It Out Of My Head" and "Strange Magic" in their 2012 set but the real surprise is that they are actively considering doing a live version of: "Latitude 88 North"! We can only look forward to their 2012 gigs!

ELOBF endorses: 'The ELO Experience' to all music fans who like the ELO [and Beatles] genres in particular - especially as we await the return to touring of: 'The Orchestra' and/or Jeff Lynne/ELO. So why not go witness them at a venue near you soon at:

http://www.elotribute.com/giglist/search/search.php

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 02-Oct-2011

NEW DEVELOPMENTS IN MIKE EDWARDS CASE [1]

2011-09-29T21:47:00.002+01:00

1]Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! We all thought that the tragic and unfortunate death of former ELO cellist Mike Edwards on 03-Sep-2010 last year and all the legal machinations thereof were concluded upon the verdict of "accidental death" at his inquest in March:

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/03/mike-edwards-inquiry-accidental-death.html

So I was most surprised to receive [another] telephone call earlier today when I arrived home from work from my roving reporter down in South Devon - Pete Reynolds - informing me that there have been some further developments in this sad story; as reported today in the South Devon Herald Express [a.k.a. "This Is South Devon"]:

http://www.thisissouthdevon.co.uk/Charges-follow-musican-s-death/story-13428560-detail/story.html

You can read the full report if you click on the above link but here is a brief excerpt outlining the case. I need add no more:

"TWO men are to appear in court charged with offences linked to the death of former ELO musician Mike Edwards who was killed by a runaway bale of silage ... [they] ... have been charged with health and safety offences relating to operations on farm land at Halwell, near Totnes ... [and] ... are due to appear before magistrates in Torquay on Friday, October 14, after a previous hearing was adjourned. The 62-year-old Totnes musician, who was a member of the Electric Light Orchestra in the 1970's; died after the quarter-tonne bale rolled 60 yards down a steep field, crashed through a hedge and landed on the cab of his van as he drove along the A381 last September, crushing him to death ..."

[end quote]

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 29-Sep-2011

INTERVIEW: SEAN MACK PAGE

2011-09-26T13:22:00.000+01:00

Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Greetings to multi-talented musician and my good friend Sean Mack Page [SMP] for this exclusive ELOBF interview:

KJS: Sean ... please tell the folks about how we crossed paths - how we came to meet up?

SMP: My band 'Fragile X' did a cover of “Turn to Stone” and it was posted on the 'ELO Discovery' web site at: http://www.elodiscovery.com/ by Nico, their web master! 'Fragile X' were listed on the site next to an ELO compilation album. I was experimenting with various ideas on how to market my newest band called 'Imaginos' at the time. I saw that there was a growing interest in the music of 'Fragile X', so I began researching various ways in marketing the music. Jason Brown, the drummer for 'Burn Sand Burn' [a local band in the Denver area] told me about MySpace and that eventually led me to pursue Facebook and Reverbnation; both being vehicles to help promote my music! From that point, I believe we began talking over on Facebook about our mutual ELO interest! This was the beginning of our friendship!

KJS: Can you tell me about your physical and musical backgrounds?

SMP: I have always had an interest in drums and music ever since I can remember! I practically wore out my grandparents 'America' record listening to: "Horse With No Name"! I used to listen to "Turn To Stone" and "Sweet Talkin' Woman" by ELO on the AM transistor radio hanging from the handle bars of my bicycle before I really knew who they were! When I was nine [9] years old, I was injured severely by a gunshot; thus I strived to find some method of fitting in and being accepted. Over the years, I tried several musical instruments including drums and percussion. Drums were very beneficial, and helped me cope with my Post Traumatic Stress Disorder [PTSD] throughout the years - without actually being diagnosed professionally! During my freshman year in High School, Karl Knox, a friend of mine in a marching band, sold me an old beat-up 'Rogers' Drum Kit - that was incomplete! I knew within a week that drums are what I wanted to play! When I was sixteen [16] years old, I got a new black 'Ludwig' drum kit for Christmas! I was ecstatic to say the least. I always loved the 'Rock' genre, and was especially interested and influenced by ELO and my idol Bev Bevan, their drummer. I also enjoy metal, classical, big band era, oldies and all of these music styles influenced my playing! I am now finally in recovery from PTSD and I wanted to share my story with others to let them know how healing music can be! It is very good that I have incredible support from friends and family. I am truly blessed, and very grateful for my life.

KJS: What bands were [and are] your musical influences [besides ELO of course!]?

SMP: I can’t help myself Keith! ELO; ELO Part II; The Move; Rush; Pink Floyd; Savatage; The Guess Who; Evanescence; Black Sabbath; Led Zeppelin; Slayer; Metallica; Metal Church; King Crimson; Mozart; Bach; Beethoven and Vivaldi are definite influences - to name a few! I love all the musicians that played in ELO over the years!! Bev Bevan and Kelly Groucutt will always be very special to me! When I opened for ELO Part II in 1996, I got to meet everybody and spend time backstage with the whole group - a dream come true! I enjoy the amazing writing of Jeff Lynne! My other favourite musicians are: Neal Peart; Alex Lifeson; Geddy Lee [of 'Rush']; Tony Iommi; Bill Ward and Geezer Butler from 'Black Sabbath'. My first record was 'Hermans Hermits Greatest Hits' so I also have to list them as one of my early influences! ..."Mrs. Brown certainly had a lovely daughter..."! Other drummers that I like are: Gene Krupa; Carl Palmer [ELP; Asia]; Steve "Doc" Walchoz and Jimmy Vincent [Louis Prema Orchestra] ... Jimmy did a mean "Sing, Sing, Sing"! Buddy Rich; Butch Miles and Sandy Nelson are awesome drummers too!

KJS: You have [and continue to be with some of them!] a member of quite a few bands Sean! 'Onyx Rook'; 'Cat Bleu'; 'Navigator'; 'Fragile X'; 'Imaginos' to name a few! Can you tell me about those bands and what they were [or are] about ?

SMP: Currently, I am actively working with all these bands. That is partially the reason that I have taken so long in getting this interview finished for you, Keith!

'Onyx Rook' was my first real band; it was heavy metal, influenced by bands like Metal Church; King Diamond; Metallica; S.O.D. and Slayer. It was the first of my bands to receive airplay! We were played on 'Z-Rock Radio' nationally and in Denver; Colorado. There were six [6] members of the band over the years! The remastered demo is available directly through me for special friends and fans! To this day 'Onyx Rook' remains an underground fan favourite! There are no web sites!

'Cat Bleu' is a three-piece group which has that blues-disco-funk-rock-metal sound! 'The Cat' has an attitude! We just released: "Don’t Bury Me" and I've heard that Bryan Spainhower is working on new material! Bryan and Brian Nicks co-write most of the 'Cat Bleu' material.

'Navigator' is my solo project. I'm currently working on a new release called: “Song for You” which has been two [2] years in the making. I think it will be a song that many can relate to as it evolved over a lost relationship! I’m very proud of what I’ve been able to accomplish in my studio for 'Navigator' and my ELO influence really shines through with this newest song!

'Fragile X' stems from my old day job where I worked with special needs children - more specifically - those suffering from 'Fragile X Syndrome' - a genetic disorder of the male 'X' chromosome that causes mild to severe birth defects. My goal was to form a band that could help raise awareness and financial aid to help fight against this horrible affliction. Please consider donating to the National Fragile X Foundation at: http://www.nfxf.org/html/home.shtml! The band 'Fragile X' consists of four [4] members and is heavily influenced by ELO! We released our first album: "Drop In Time" in 1996 just before opening for ELO Part II. 'Fragile X' is now resurfacing and gaining international popularity as we speak! All of the original four [4] members as well as new studio musicians from my other bands are all file sharing music and currently working on several new songs. We plan to remaster and release a number of great, never-released songs from the past such as: "Poison Arrow"; "Epic" and "Under The Radar" along with new material. Lance and I are re-energized, and we are working very hard to get everything released as soon as possible!

'Imaginos' is the newest three [3] piece group. We hired two ladies to give our first album: "Pathways" that elegant, Gothic contrast to its metal edge! We've been told that 'Imaginos' have probably some of the prettiest hard rock music out there! It is currently receiving airplay throughout the US and UK. 'Savatage' - who are loved by both Brian Nicks and me - were a very strong influence for the album “Pathways”! Being progressive and calling upon influences from the past, there are also shades of Pink Floyd, Rush, and ELO in the 'Imaginos' sound! 'Imaginos' have also been compared to Evanescence - and that is an honour too! I’m very proud of this project and album since it was done entirely within our own studios. Currently, 'Imaginos' are working on the follow-up album to "Pathways" and I am currently in rehearsal to record the drum tracks for the next two [2] songs! The invasion continues!

KJS: Please could you tell me about some of the characters in those bands, Sean?

'Onyx Rook' were Mike Wolff [main writer and lead guitarist]; Chuck Gillespie [lead vocals and guitar]; Chris Aderhold [rhythm guitar]; George Chisholm [bass and backing vocals] and Tim Lawrence [lead vocals]. I think you know who the drummer was! We were very young and dreamt of being rock stars! Boy were we naive! The music was heavy and we had quite the following, but immaturity was at its peak for all of us! There is no substitute for age and experience! Most of us are now apart physically but we keep in touch through email and Facebook! I am working with guitarist Chris Aderhold again! I am very pleased to have him back on board as his writing and guitar work add a new and exciting element to the band!

'Cat Bleu' is Brian Spainhower [lead guitar and vocals]; Brian Nicks [bass guitar and vocals] with yours truly [Sean Page!] on drums and vocals. Brian Spainhower [a.k.a. "Spanky"] is heavily influenced by Jimmy Hendrix. He even won "Best Guitar Player" in Denver CO at the local Grammy Awards! Brian Nicks is a wicked bass player and sets the groove for Bryan and myself. Brian wrote the recent release: "Don’t Bury Me". I do a little drumming on all the 'Cat Bleu' songs and even sing lead vocals on "Open Mind"!

'Navigator': "Beyond The Galactic Rim” was my first attempt at writing and composing songs on a piano! With the exception of "Thinking of Home" and "Hyperdrive"; this six [6] song CD consists of self-written and self-produced songs that give you a spirited look into the future of space exploration on the edge of the Galactic Rim - not dissimilar in theme from the "Time" LP by ELO. "Thinking Of Home" was written by Keith Stewart along with the music for "Hyperdrive". George Chisholm played bass on "Hyperdrive" and I played all the other instruments - and all the vocals! These were the first tracks produced and recorded in my studio! I learned a lot in the process. This will come out in the new recordings for all the bands that I'm involved with! "Song for You" will be my latest 'Navigator' release! Work continues on the "Bone Planet" concept album once again, thanks mainly to the addition of Chris Aderhold on guitar!

'Fragile X': Lance Allred [lead vocals and songwriter]: He loves studio work; motorcycles and is currently based in Branson MO. He is very excited about the opportunity to write and help produce past and present 'Fragile X' tunes again - whilst working with the original group - and our pals Mark Fisher; Bryan Spainhower and hopefully Brian Nicks! Lance’s buddy Martin Schroeder is playing bass guitar on our new tune: "I’m Going Home". Lance is currently utilizing the talents of a great producer and has access to world famous studios like "The Mansion". Jeremiah Riggen [lead guitar and backing vocals]: Jeremiah’s guitar playing is excellent and very unique. He is into video games and music in his spare time. He is the father of a beautiful daughter! George Chisholm [bass guitar and vocals]: George is the lead vocalist on: "No Longer" from the CD: "Drop In Time". He is also the father of two beautiful daughters and is currently residing in Florida. He plays live with several local area bands. Although now spread out throughout the US, this group realizes the importance of putting their heads back together to help this exciting music resurface and be made available to the masses!

'Imaginos' are led by originator Brian Nicks [lead/backing vocals; lead; rhythm and bass guitars AND keyboards! Brian’s writing and musical abilities are phenomenal. He and his family reside in Colorado. He is deeply involved in family activities and also enjoys karate! Brian works with computers in his day job! Mark Fisher [lead; rhythm and bass guitars; keyboards and backing vocals]. Mark is an exceptional musician and contributes immensely to anything he is asked to do! He is a true professional! In his spare time he climbs the Colorado Rockies! He lives in Colorado with his wonderful family! Yours truly [again!]: Sean Page [drummer; drummist; drums; percussion; backing and lead backing vocals!] I also co-wrote: "I, King". I spent a lot of time in my 'Navigator Studios' and almost went mad helping to produce the first 'Imaginos' album: "Pathways" ... LoL! I did all the drums to a click track so they are tight! I also did them "old school" in a two [2] track format. The drum kit is a whole instrument this way, so they sound really good! However, I now track in eight [8] separate tracks because editing and mixing the drums is much easier on Brian and the engineers this way! We both learned a lot in the production of this album! It took us two [2] years to complete. We’re very proud of the final product! Awesome to have the female talents of Elise Winters and Laura Clarke on the "Pathways" disc too! Great voices! What a great job they did for us! We all learned a lot during this experience, and the next 'Imaginos 'album is currently in the works!

KJS: Besides your ELO interpretations; I’ve been impressed with the music you have written; co-written and performed. Personally; I really rate “Winter Gift” on the ‘Imaginos’ “Pathways” album; “Colorado Way Of Feeling” and “World Apart” by ‘Fragile X’ and a few others! What inspires you when you put pen to paper, Sean?

My inspiration comes from my life experiences and my imagination. I wish I could take credit for the majority of the writing, but I can’t! My hats off to all the guys - they are the genius' behind most of the writing for the majority of the songs. Being a drummer, I am a little slower when it comes to writing songs, but I do contribute! I create the original framework for all of our songs to a click track with scratch tracks! Writing; composing; engineering; recording and performing music in 'Navigator' alone has allowed me to express my feelings and emotions on the piano; keyboards and drums. And it’s almost like I don’t have a choice! I have to do it! I also really enjoy singing! All my music comes from the heart!

KJS: You have had the good fortune to cross paths with ELO on a few occasions. What do you recall from attending one of ELO’s 1982 ‘Time’ tour shows in the US?

SMP: It was my second big concert. I was twelve [12] years old at the time and I had to take my little sister with me ... but we had a blast! I was blown away. ELO were awesome; the experience made me like them even more; the Robot was super cool; as was the excitement of just being there at a huge arena concert! The McNichol Arena in Denver I believe! I wish I could have bought a T-Shirt! My dad sees it a little different ... he looked for us all around the perimeter of the building but we were waiting on the opposite side of the building from where we had told him to pick us up! He says he didn't hold ELO responsible - but I guess he was pretty scared; thinking we had been kidnapped or lost! We had no idea what Pop went through ... just so we could see ELO! My favourite concert of all time! I think this is what made me want to become a drummer, but there is certainly more to that story!

KJS: Was that where your love of ELO began?

SMP: No! It began on my bicycle with a transistor radio hanging from the handlebars when I was about eight or nine years old! I knew some of their songs, but I didn’t know the band yet! I just knew I liked the music! It rocked! In 1979 I bought my first ELO album: "Discovery"! I absolutely love: "Don’t Bring Me Down"!

KJS: As an articulate percussionist yourself ... Can you tell us why Bev Bevan is your drumming inspiration?

SMP: Very thoughtful of you Keith! The ELO "Time" concert and the 'Black Sabbath "Born Again" tour are really what got me interested in Bev Bevan. He was the drummer for my favourite band ELO, and now also Black Sabbath! I was star struck ... Bev was a rock star and I really wanted to be just like him! The way he plays drums to specific songs can be so cool ... for example: his drumming on: "Roll Over Beethoven" and the entire ELO II record or CD [not the band - the album!] is amazing! Frenzied, energetic and difficult to play - or played with amazing feel! Bev’s drumming made me feel good! Doesn’t everybody love his drumming on: "Fire On High"? Bev’s drumming makes hit records. ELO are not the same without him on drums! His drumming with 'The Move' was second to none! Just listen to the song: "Looking On" - it speaks for itself! The drum solo and the music in the second half of the song is all in a five [5] feel ... very cool! In old drumming magazines, he is credited with being one of the greatest rock drummers in the world! His respect for other drummers and musicians is an inspiration to us all! I have had the honour of seeing Bev solo live more than once - and even at 66 years young - he continues to inspire me to this day! Him and my dad are the same age!

KJS: Tell me about your other percussion heroes and their influence on your style of drumming?

SMP: Neal Peart of 'Rush' is the most technical drummer that I enjoy! I would hope that my own style lies somewhere in between him and Bev. Neal Peart is one of the greatest of all time! Jimmie Vincent from the big band era is also one of my favourite drummers! Sandy Nelson's: "Let There Be Drums" influenced Bev and many other drummers including me! "Teen Beat" is pretty awesome! Kirk Arrington - the original drummer for Metal Church' is also very talented! Too many others to mention!

KJS: What are your thoughts on the musical legacy of ELO’s predecessors: ‘The Move’?

SMP: I love them equal to ELO or Rush! 'The Move' are under appreciated. However, I know that they have influenced many other musicians such as me and the band 'Cheap Trick' ... More ELO fans need to discover 'The Move'! I would love to see the reformed version of the band! It’s cool that they are still rocking into their sixties! I certainly hope I can too! Move, Move, Move!

KJS: Regular visitors to ELOBF and Facebook will know that back in 1996; your band 'Fragile X' actually supported ELO Part II on their USA tour. What was it like being on the same stage as your musical icons?

SMP: Wow! I used to tell people in High School that I would open for ELO someday! Dream big and your dreams sometimes come true ... mine did! It was an experience that I will never forget and I will cherish it always! 'Fragile X' and ELO sounded really good through that big stage PA! We sold a lot of shirts and CD's that night! One of our best, if not the best gig ever! My "Slingerland" set on stage next to Bev’s drum stack ... Is that awesome or what?

KJS: Could you elaborate on what it was like spending quality time with the likes of Kelly Groucutt; Bev Bevan; Eric Troyer; Lou Clark; Mik Kaminski and Phil Bates at that time?

SMP: We were supposed to go backstage, but due to the large crowd, it almost didn't happen! But thanks to my father - he got it done! Very hurried! It seemed to go by in a flash! Bev was really busy, and Kelly was the talkative one in the group - and very sweet to my mother! What a gentleman ... rest in peace my brother! Eric, Lou, Mik and Phil were all polite; very approachable and they made us feel great. We had a ball just hanging out with them and sharing some snacks and cold beverages! As my dad recalls, Bev was soaking wet ... he worked really hard for this concert; as did the whole group! Just talking to Bev was enough to trip me all over my tongue! I even forgot to introduce my girlfriend at the time - not on purpose - whole other story there ... LoL! Kelly was such a great guy…he was always friendly to everyone and never failed to say hello every time I saw them after that first meeting in Colorado. Bev was a little harder to get close to because he was in such demand and very busy trying to make time for everyone! I managed to get a great picture of him and me - with him receiving one of our 'Fragile X' T-Shirts! The next thing I know, their manager is telling them to rap it up …they had a 'plane to catch ... the life of a rock star eh? I will never forget that night!

KJS: It must have been the fulfilment of a dream to support your favourite band - but you also went onto record a great version of ELO’s seminal classic: “Turn To Stone” with ‘Fragile X’ that I play regularly on my “KJS Suggests” radio show. How did that session come about?

SMP: 'Fragile X' was working in "Rudy’s Studio" in Denver CO around late1999. We had a couple of extra studio hours that day, and decided to lay down: "Turn To Stone"! With one additional session, we finished the version that many folks get to hear today on: "Hamilton Radio" and your show! Because it wasn't recorded live and because I was the biggest ELO fan, I got to sing it in the studio! Drummers almost never get to sing! Besides, according to my dad, I was the only one with a fake British accent! LoL!

KJS: You’ve also worked on covers of other ELO songs including “Oh No Not Susan” with Steve Midgley ... Do you have any plans to record other ELO tracks with your bands?

SMP: Keith, as you know, we are all very saddened by the recent death of our dear friend Steve Midgley! I hope to finish the "Oh No Not Susan" tracks to honour Steve and to continue to do other ELO covers with my current band members in the future! Yes! I am open to anyone that wants to work with me doing ELO covers! I am especially interested in string players since I don’t know any at the moment! Violins and cellos rock! 'Imaginos' currently has an ELO cover tune in the works and 'Navigator' already has plans to do more ELO! Any musicians interested in doing ELO covers via file sharing can contact me at: oldwestlvr@hotmail.com

KJS: Have you ever performed any ELO songs live and are you planning to attempt any in future?

SMP: Yes! "Turn to Stone" by 'Fragile X' ... Maybe! I would love to play ELO live again…it would be awesome! Getting out and playing live again is one of my immediate goals!

KJS: You have a great professional and personal relationship with Hamilton Radio [HR] and DJ Gino DiPierro alias ‘Doc G’. Please tell us about your friendship with HR and Gino? How important are those musical partnerships with HR [and the other radio stations you have dealings with] to you and your on-going projects?

SMP: 'Hamilton Radio' [http://www.%20hamiltonradio.net/] and DOCG [Gino DiPierro] are a breath of fresh air to the music scene; especially for the indie artists! He also plays bands that have been ignored by corporate radio. His play list is considerably larger and filled with more variety with more full length versions of songs than I have heard anywhere in radio! I consider Gino as my dear friend, and what he does for ALL artistes is unheard of in today's music scene. He is simply one of a kind and has streamed my music all over the world. He is the most unselfish and caring DJ in the industry today! No-one out there does it the way he does it. He truly listens to his listeners and values their input! I know that you feel the same way that I do and look forward to Fridays when we get to hear your “KJS Selection Show” on 'Hamilton Radio'. This is all because of you and DOCG! We are tied to this thing collectively, and our love for ELO and each other will help to change radio forever! I also have a deep respect for Dominic Forbes of "Brit Rock" [http://www.softrockclassicshow.co.nr/] - who has aired 'Fragile X' and 'Imaginos' - and has also featured Sean Page's 'Navigator' on his show. "Brit Rock" is also featured on many other stations worldwide. Stu 'n' Kendall’s "Friday Night Rock Show" on Harborough FM [http://www.harboroughfm.co.uk/] in the UK also plays 'Fragile X' and 'Imaginos'. It's an honour to be aired alongside of great well-known artistes like Rush and ELO, and to hear their wonderful compliments about my music! You guys rock! Thanks to my fans, friends, and these DJ's who have given my music air play; I am forever grateful! These relationships are all possible because of Gino DiPierro finding me on Facebook and offering to play my music! His connections, the promotion of my music plus your and Francis Pope's marketing skills in the UK, were the catalyst to my bands getting world-wide exposure! Not only on his station, but other stations as well. Shaz Pratt of "The Light Shines On" is also playing 'Fragile X' and 'Cat Bleu' on her ELO show on 'Radio BackTrack' [http://radiobacktrack.co.uk/radiobacktrack/HOME.html] and now on 'Hamilton Radio' too! She is special too, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity that all of these DJ's are giving my bands. I know the other band members appreciate it as well! This is unheard of in today’s corporate music world. I want them all to know that it means the world to me! I also want to put a special thanks out there to my band members; without them, I am just a drummer! This is not about me, but all of us, and our quest to be successful!

KJS: You have a remarkable bond with your incredibly supportive parents. Can you tell me about the role of your father Mack in your career?

SMP: Simply put - my father is my manager! He is my biggest fan and critic! He gets things done that others can’t! Pop is the guy that made sure we got backstage with ELO Part II! For the whole world to know ... I love my dad! My mom is an angel; and any son would be blessed to have a mom like mine! She is the most giving and caring person I know on Planet Earth. She helps me with all the little day to day things I sometimes can’t get to when the music takes over my day! My parents are my best friends! Family is very important to me.

KJS: You have a growing collection of followers both on-line and on all radio frequencies! How important are those fans to you?

SMP: Keith, I have been at this since I was sixteen [16] years old. The DJ's have been incredible in their support! 'Sean Page's Army' of friends and fans are essential, and also extremely important to the success that I have achieved. Without them I would be nowhere. I want to personally thank each and every one of them for their support! There are numerous friends and fans that go way beyond the call of duty to help promote my music, there are too many to mention individually without forgetting somebody ... they know who they are! No man or woman left behind! The invasion continues!

KJS: What musical projects is Sean Mack Page working on right now here in 2011?

SMP: 'Fragile X'; 'Imaginos'; 'Navigator' and 'Cat Bleu'. Right now, I am working on a number of songs for all of the bands. I am also currently rehearsing with Chris Aderhold of 'Onyx Rook'! It's enough to keep me busy ... LoL!

KJS: A question I ask very interviewee here on ELOBF ... What are your favourite songs of Jeff Lynne; ELO; ‘The Beatles’ and [naturally] ‘The Move’?

SMP: ELO songs: "Secret Messages"; "Ticket To The Moon"; "In Old England Town"; "From The Sun To The World" ... or anything off "Electric Light Orchestra II" [the album that is!]. For ELO there are many other favourites depending on my mood. I mentioned the ones that came to mind today! The Beatles: "Strawberry Fields Forever" and "Eleanor Rigby". The Move: "Looking On"; "Fields Of People"; "The Last Thing On My Mind" and "Beautiful Daughter". "Shazam" was my first Move Album!

KJS: Finally - and with five [5] bands - there must be many ways for folks to get a hold of your music and catch up with what SMP is up to. Can you please tell folks of the many ways they can keep in touch; contact you and purchase or download your music?

Bands and Personal web sites:

http://elobeatlesforever.blogspot.com/2011/02/turn-to-stone-fragile-x-2.html

http://www.facebook.com/Imaginosband

http://www.facebook.com/Fragilexband

http://www.facebook.com/seanpagedrummer

T-Shirts; Downloads available at:

http://www.reverbnation.com/seanpagedrummer

http://www.reverbnation.com/imaginos

http://www.reverbnation.com/imaginosco

To purchase 'Navigator'; 'Cat Bleu' or 'Onyx Rook' CD's - please email:

oldwestlvr@hotmail.com

Single song downloads available at:

http://www.reverbnation.com/seanpagedrummer

http://www.myspace.com/seanpagedrummer

http://www.myspace.com/fragilexband

http://www.myspace.com/catbleu

http://www.myspace.com/navigatorzx57913

Radio Stations and Shows:

http://www.hamiltonradio.net/ [#1 Internet Radio Station in New Jersey!]

http://www.softrockclassicshow.co.nr/ [Brit Rock - DJ Dominic Forbes]

http://www.harboroughfm.co.uk/index.html [102.3 HFM in the UK]

Studio@harboroughfm.co.uk [Kendall and Stu's Friday Night Rock Show]

http://www.radiobacktrack.co.uk/radiobacktrack/HOME.html [Radio BackTrack]

http://boost-radio.com/fusion/news.php

http://www.cheesefactoryradio.com/

http://www.area93.com/new2/artists/fragilexband [93.3 FM KTCL Denver]

http://www.jango.com/music/Fragile+X?l=0 [Fragile X's Radio Station]

http://www.elodiscovery.com/ ["Welcome To The Show"]

Being rising indie artistes and ELO fans ourselves; all of the bands would be honoured and grateful for ELO fans and followers to purchase our music at the following websites:

Tunecore.com:

http://www.tunecore.com/widgets/show/6797

http://widget.tunecore.com/swf/tc_run_h_v2.swf?widget_id=44162

iTunes.com:

http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/fragile-x/id303610279

http://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/imaginos/id398896672

Napster.com:

http://music.napster.com/imaginos-music/tracks/13401659

http://music.napster.com/fragile-x-music/tracks/12736878#s_module=search_autocomplete&origin=search

amazon.com:

http://www.amazon.com/Pathways-Imaginos/dp/B004FN27VS/ref%3dsr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1296849702&sr=1-1

http://www.amazon.com/Drop-Time-Fragile-X/dp/B00000GBTV/ref=ntt_mus_ep_dpi_1

KJS: I would like to take the opportunity to thank Sean for participating in this trans-Atlantic interview. 'ELO Beatles Forever' [ELOBF] fully supports and endorses the many musical activities and outlets of Sean Mack Page to all music fans who like those ELO; ‘The Move’ and ‘The Beatles’ genres in particular.

SMP: Keith, thanks so very much for your help and support. Without ELOBF; Frances Pope and Gino DiPierro - my music would still be sitting on the shelves of corporate radio collecting dust! Because of you folks, 'Sean Page's Army', my band members, the other DJ's, friends and fans, I am successful. I'm now on worldwide radio with the continued support of the ELO family! Thanks again so much my friends!

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] universe ... KJS ... 23-Sep-2011