ELIO PACE - "MY SONGBOOK. MY LIFE" Tour Dates 2026 (UK)

"MY SONGBOOK. MY LIFE"

2026

19.09.2026 UK-Alnwick, Playhouse
21.09.2026 UK-Bowness-on-Windermere, The Victoria Wood Theatre

25.09.2026 UK-Bury St Edmunds, The Apex

Band:
Elio Pace, p, git, harmonica
Tom Wright, git
Neil Fairclough, b
Mathew Newton, keys, p, git
Frank Walden, sax, flute, perc.
Mikey Ciancio, dr 

Elio Pace and Band, Admiralspalast Berlin - 05 March 2025

Last Wednesday Elio Pace and highly talented Band thrilled the audience with their 'Billy Joel Songbook' at the packed Admiralspalast Berlin. Security was tighter than usual for obvious reasons - but all that was forgotten as soon as the show started. 

 

Great to see familiar faces again as drummer Mikey Ciancio (seen with Bobby Cochran, Doña Oxford and Albert Lee), Neil Fairclough (seen with Queen), Tom Wright and the rest of the band seen with my friend Jilly Penegar at Horsham a couple of years ago. Elio burst with energie, was very talkative and kept us entertained in the best way telling little anecdotes - never a dull moment ! Also, he did not forget to mention legendary Terry Wogan a much loved radio and TV personality in Britain probably not that well-known over here but most of my UK friends know what I mean.

What a great night, a heartfelt THANK YOU to all of you guys. I'm happy to see that the tour was such a success - more than deserved !

Band:

Elio Pace, p, git, harmonica

Tom Wright, git

Neil Fairclough, b

Mathew Newton, keys, p, git

Frank Walden, sax, perc.

Mikey Ciancio, dr

Elio Pace & Band, Admiralspalast Berlin - 28 Feb 2024

The Billy Joel Songbook

What a fantastic show full of energy and great music. So happy to see Elio Pace and highly talented Band finally making it to my hometown and I went to see them - which goes without saying. They went right into business and Elio's winning personality took the audience by storm. No one remained seated at the end, clapping and dancing away. Great to see familiar faces on stage as drummer Mikey Ciancio (seen earlier with Bobby Cochran, Doña Oxford and Albert Lee ), Neil Fairclough (seen with Queen), Tom Wright and the entire band seen with my friend Jilly Penegar at Horsham a couple of years ago.

It was so nice to catch up later with Elio and Mikey and have a brief chat.

Thank you all so much guys and especially Elio for everything ! 

Way too many photos taken, hope they can reflect a great night (click on the photo above)

Den Rest schreibe ich mal auf Deutsch für diejenigen, die hier bei uns Elio (noch) nicht kennen. Er ist Sänger/Songschreiber/Pianist/Arrangeur und Produzent und hat mit einer Vielzahl von namhaften Künstlern gearbeitet z.B. Brian May, Huey Lewis, Glen Campbell, Gilbert O'Sullivan, Lulu, Mike Rutherford, Don McLean, nicht zuletzt Albert Lee uvm., war auch öfter Gast bei der hochprofilierten Terry Wogan Show in UK. Er ist ein Energiebündel ohnegleichen und nach diesen grandiosen Auftritten in Zürich, Hamburg und Berlin dürfte er sich auch bei uns einen Namen gemacht haben. Wir wünschen uns, dass diese tolle Band bald wiederkommt, denn die Shows sollte man sich nicht entgehen lassen, für Freunde von richtig guter Musik ein Genuss.

Band:

Elio Pace, p, git, harmonica

Tom Wright, git

Neil Fairclough, b

Mathew Newton, keys, p, git

Frank Walden, sax, flute, perc.

 

Brian Hodgson † - Sad News

From Albert Lee & Hogan's Heroes Website:

Photo (c)  gs

 

For those who still visit the Albert Lee & Hogan’s Heroes website it is with deep sadness that we have to announce the passing of Brian Hodgson.

Brian was a founder member of the band way back in 1987. He had suffered for some years with Parkinson’s disease, but his strong heart and eternal sense of optimism kept him going, when others would certainly have given in. Toward the end it became impossible for him to keep performing.

He spent his last few months in care and eventually passed away peacefully in hospital listening to his favourite music with his daughter Jennifer by his side.

He will be sorely missed by all who knew him: his wife Sylvia, children, grandchildren and all the members of the band, along with its many followers.

It is a sad time indeed, but you will not be forgotten Brian. 

Photo (c)  gs

 
A tribute for Brian from the "Neil Innes and Fatso" Site:

It is with deep sadness that we announce the death of Fatso bass player Brian Hodgson on 15 May 2020. We offer our condolences to his wife Sylvia, daughter Jennifer, son Paul and Brian's grandchildren.

BRIAN HODGSON BIOGRAPHY
Brian has been successfully involved in the music industry for many years as a musician, artiste, composer and producer.

In his early years he toured and recorded with Billy Fury, Marty Wilde and many others. In the '70's he worked with Neil Innes and Fatso, Eric Idle and George Harrison on the acclaimed BBC TV series 'Rutland Weekend Television' which featured the first appearance of 'The Rutles'.

Brian was a member of '80's rockabilly rebels Matchbox and wrote and produced many of their records. He also co-wrote and produced 'Why Do I Always Get it Wrong' which was the runaway winner for the UK 1989 Song for Europe.

In 1992 Brian was elected onto the Council of BASCA (British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors) and in 1993 he co-wrote and produced a hit single for Manchester United - 'United We Love You' (and he doesn't care who knows it!).

Brian has written/produced for a wide variety of artistes including Shakin' Stevens, Dennis Waterman, Billy J Kramer, Johnny Halliday, Lonnie Donegan, Peter Sarstedt, Mike Berry, Sonny Curtis, Hayden Thompson, Christopher Lee, Albert Lee and Hogan’s Heroes, Matchbox and Kirstie MacColl, including Lonnie Donegan’s last studio album 'Muleskinner Blues' which also included two duets with Van Morrison.

More recently he has been writing and producing for film, TV and video/DVD. Credits include 'Savage Hearts' (featuring Richard Harris) 'Beyond Belief', 'Fauna', Vinnie Jones 'Great Balls of Fire'. The theme to Jeremy Clarkson's BBC TV series ‘Clarkson’ and the music to Clarkson’s last eleven DVDs.

Brian has also had the pleasure of playing with Lonnie Donegan, Marty Stuart, The Blue Caps, Buddy Emmons, The Goodies, The Bobby Cochran Band, Dave Edmunds and Mike Berry and the Outlaws which included 3 gigs with Sir Paul McCartney to celebrate the music of Buddy Holly. More recently he appeared at the Royal Albert Hall with ‘Hogan’s Heroes’ Bruce Welch and Ray Cooper in The Rock Island Line tribute concert to Lonnie Donegan.

Brian also played bass in 'Hogan's Heroes' which is led by one of the world's greatest guitar heroes, Albert Lee.

A wonderful tribute for Brian from Elio Pace, published on various Facebook sites:
Elio Pace

16 May at 19:00 ·

I lost a very dear old friend, bandmate and colleague yesterday... bass player, songwriter and record producer, Brian Hodgson.
Brian changed my life with a single phone call to Albert Lee in 2006, by telling him that he should try me out for their band as a replacement piano-player to Pete Wingfield. That phone call started an incredible three years for me playing alongside and learning so much, not only from guitar legend Albert Lee but also three other legends of the British Rock And Roll music scene, Gerry Hogan, Peter Baron and Brian, himself. I could never thank Brian enough for putting me forward for that ‘audition’.

Along with other fantastic achievements in the music business involving, amongst others, Paul McCartney, George Harrison, Dave Edmunds, Lonnie Donegan and Sonny Curtis, Brian had huge success with the band Matchbox and he wrote many great songs including one of my favourite Shakin’ Stevens songs, ‘Shooting Gallery’.
He twice honoured me by attending The Billy Joel Songbook, and it was on the second occasion, at The Stables in Milton Keynes in 2017, on his 73rd birthday, that I saw him for the last time. His health had obviously deteriorated a lot, yet still he came with his gorgeous family and after the show we had a chat about music, just as we always used to, sitting next to each other in the back of Gerry Hogan’s car, travelling all around the UK and Europe during those three glorious years. I loved his passion for music and his knowledge about music history was second to no one. A gentle, funny, brilliant man and musician. I loved him. Simple as that.
My heart and condolences go out to his darling devoted wife Sylvia, his son Paul, his daughter Jennifer and all the family who have lost a very very special and talented husband, Dad and Grandad. ❤️

ELIO PACE presents ELVIS PRESLEY: 40th Anniversary Concerts'

A Special Event in August:
16.08.2017  UK-Horsham, The Capitol, 08:00 pm
40th anniversary  'Just-me-my-piano-and-a-drummer' ELVIS PRESLEY concert.
Elio Pace, piano, vocals, accordion
Steve ("Animal") Rushton, drums, perc., piano, voc
and the team:  Matt Daniel-Baker, Tom Pritchard, Johnny Meaney, Richard Wood and RosaRecords Label

Jilly, Sharon and I went to see this special event at The Capitol Horsham and it turned out to be a real treat, something not to be missed. The fabulous Elio Pace and incredible drummer Steve Rushton created an atmosphere the photos can't do justice. I still remember Steve Rushton being with Imelda May's band, great to see him again!
So nice to have a few words later with Mrs Pace, Elio's lovely mother and his sister Giuseppina. Jilly, Sharon and I had a fantastic time. A big THANK YOU goes to Elio for bringing the Elvis show on.

That's all I have to say, rather save my breath and share Paul Wallace's great review as it says everything. Paul is only too happy to share, thanks for that.

Elio Pace Presents Elvis Presley - Horsham Capitol 16/8/17
Review by Paul Wallace  (slightly shortened):

"When I first heard about this planned show I was intrigued. Once I heard about the planned concept of Elio on the keys accompanied by just a drummer I was a bit baffled. I was immediately thinking how on earth could the songs of Elvis be pulled off with just a piano and a drummer? What about the bass? brass? Guitar? What's he thinking? I knew I simply had to be part of this, whatever it was going to sound like. I had to experience what this show had to offer as I fully trust Elio as the perfectionist he is and I knew if anyone could do it - it was him.

Now let me just state for the record that I'm not a huge Elvis die hard. Sure, I love the music of Elvis, as I do many artists, but I'm not one of those Elvis completests. I enjoy the standards and even bought a 5 album box set from Reader's Digest back in 1987 as a 16 year old lad. I've enjoyed the live DVDs and I do love to hear an Elvis cover version done differently. I've never been into those Elvis tribute shows where the artist pretends to be Elvis and acts, sings and dresses like him. I know many are top of their game with quite a few sounding just like him and I take nothing away from them, but it's just not my bag. I've never made it through an Elvis film that features him as the star and there are quite a few of standards that I've never liked, like Wooden Heart and (shock horror) Hound Dog. I do love many, many more of his vast catalogue though and I'm sure there's more stuff I'd love that I haven't heard yet. Still there's no denying it - Elvis was and continues to be the greatest entertainer, the greatest persona ever.

So getting back to the show - the concept is what drew me in. The fact I knew this wasn't going to be a novelty gig, no dressing up, no lip curling under quiffs doing the 'uh-huh-fank-you-very-much' kinda deal. No, this was going to be a performance of songs sung in Elio's naturally gifted voice, done to a stripped down backing never tried live before.

As we entered the theatre's auditorium and took our seats, the stage was set with Elio's beautiful grand piano facing a fully loaded drum kit sat on a podium teasing us with the low lights glowing over them. It wasn't long before the house filled up, the lights went down and the stage lit up to roars as Stephen Rushton took to his pilot seat. I was trying desperately to think how on earth do you even start an Elvis show like this one? Then it happened...

No messing! Boom ba-boom ba-boom boom ba-boom! Stephen launches into that famous Presley 'CC Rider' intro that I remember from the live DVD that came after the 2001 A Space Odyssey theme tease and immediately the hairs on the back of my neck stood up! Stephen (with his facial expressions looking like a manic Harry Hill crossed with the Phil Collins' You Can't Hurry Love' video backing singer character) was banging those drums like nothing I've ever heard before. Wow! The sound from them blew the roof off from the get go as Elio walked on stage to more roars and took to the piano to launch into That's Alright Mama. I knew immediately that this was going to be a night like no other. The first three songs were all in quick succession and grabbed us all completely. What followed was a wonderful collection of standards, a few surprises and some wonderful chat with Elvis facts and stories that mesmerised and educated in equal measures. The piano with just the drums was a marriage made in heaven. Between the pair of them Elio covered the bass with the deep piano keys and Stephen with his booming bass drum. Piano melodies took the place of any guitar riff or blasts of brass that were absent and after a short time you didn't notice or even care that any other instruments were missing. That's when it hit me what I was watching and hearing as Elio explained the concept...

OK, picture this. Two young lads in a garage, one on the piano and one on the drums. They're having a little jam session to Elvis songs, tucked out the way in their own little world. In their heads they're on stage, all grown up, under the smoke and lights performing to a packed house. What we were watching tonight was THAT dream in the heads of these two jamming lads. The dream had become real and we were all witness to it. It worked in the garage with the teenage dreams, so surely it would work in reality. Elio knew it , Stephen knew it and they actually pulled it off. And then some.
For nearly three hours we were treated to bundles of superb Presley classics. There were some of the obvious hits, all varied from the rocked out ones to the gospel, to the sentimental ballads. There were a few surprises of a couple of more obscure songs and some linked together as medleys. Elio played squeeze box on a couple of tracks and Stephen even played the piano at one point. We had a musical journey that took us on the highs and lows, with some comical anecdotes and some heart wrenching ones. We even had Elio singing Ole Sole Mio into It's Now Or Never (criminally missing the chance to sing the line 'Just one Cornettooooooo') it was just amazing the variety of sound to be had.
Elio starting the second half of the show from the audience at the back of the theatre, walking down the stairs to the stage while singing Heartbreak Hotel was ridiculously cool. We had the fun tunes from some of Elvis' dodgy films and songs from when he was simply top of the world. Halfway through the second half we were reminded that the day was the 40th anniversary of Elvis passing away. Elio had told us a story of how the great Albert Lee used to carry a cassette recorder around with him and he had it with him in a hotel room in 1977 when the news broke of Elvis' death. He recorded the radio's breaking news on the spot, and we were privileged that Albert had lent Elio the actual recording to play in the show. You could've heard a pin drop as the stage dimmed and we listened to the reporter's voices cracking giving the sad news. There wasn't a dry eye in the house as the tape finished as Elio started to play An American Trilogy. Absolutely heartbreaking hearing it in that context directly after those sad radio recordings.
The show was lifted to the sky and beyond for the last 20 minutes. Everyone was up dancing and singing as one hit after another was blasted our way. Sure, not every hit was performed as that was impossible seeing as Elvis recorded hundreds of songs, but in the three hours we were treated to no less than forty-five of them! Now that's impressive.
This Elvis show was a truly wonderful experience and I'm glad I was part of it. Thankfully, Elio announced that they are going to tour it next year for around 15 dates in July, if memory serves me well. Make sure you don't miss it!
This show could make the pair a fortune in Vegas as it's the kind of show that could run forever in a residency at Caesars Palace or the Wynns amongst others. But don't tell Elio that just yet as we want this show to reach as many people as possible right here before it goes stratospheric!
Elvis has left the building. For now, anyway."



Elio's comment
Elio himself wrote a comment on Facebook which I'm sharing here:

"I've had a couple of days to recover now from our Elvis Presley 40th Anniversary shows in Horsham and Taunton... and I'm still as high as kite from it all.
Performing (for the very first time in public) with Steve Rushton is one of the highlights of my career. Creating this show with Matt Daniel-Baker and seeing the fruits of our labour come to fruition in such a happy and glorious manner is one of the proudest moments of my life. Working so closely with my pals, lighting designer Richard Wood and sound engineers Tom Pritchard and Johnny Meaney who so beautifully delivered technically AND artistically is an awesome privilege.
AND... all of YOU!
It will take me days to go through every tagged post, review, comment, photo, video, private message, email, text that I have received but please know, all of you, having read some, how overwhelmed I am by the response and how much, from the bottom of my heart, I appreciate your words. I am thrilled to the core that you enjoyed this rather 'out there' take on Elvis' music and that you "GOT IT"... something new in the Elvis world; a fresh, organic approach to Elvis' legacy. THANK YOU FOR GETTING IT.
So, look out over the next few months, as we will be announcing a mini tour of this show for next July. If you want to be absolutely certain of knowing the dates and when everything goes on sale please go to my website eliopace.com  and join the mailing list. A couple of weeks coming up now of kicking back and relaxing a bit and then off we go once again for the 30 date Autumn 2017 UK Tour of The Billy Joel Songbook where we will also be going over to mainland Europe for the first time for 8 shows in Holland. All dates on my website.
As Elvis used to say... you're a beautiful audience, thank you very much. And I sincerely mean it... THANK YOU. VERY MUCH. ❤️ "
 

Albert Lee & His Band - Two UK Gigs in April 2017

The Mick Jagger Centre, Dartford  - 01 April 2017

Line-up:
Albert Lee (git, voc, key),
Will MacGregor (b, backgr voc),
John "J.T." Thomas (key, accordion, backgr voc)
Ollie Sears (ds, backgr voc)

Special Guest (on both nights):
Wayne Lee

Last but one gig of the band's UK spring tour. Albert Lee & His Electric Band played The Mick Jagger Centre Dartford on 2nd April. I thought the venue, bar and foyer had improved since my last visit which was some years back. It was great to see familiar faces in the foyer e.g. Brian Hodgson, Melody Wren,Wayne Lee and family. As the place was packed I could only land a seat at the very back row but nevertheless had a great view due to the tiered seating. The band delivered a great performance as expected and it was nice to see Wayne join in for the encore tearing it all up. Here's to the last gig at Epsom Playhouse next day!

Epsom Playhouse - 02 April 2017

The windows at Epsom Playhouse showed posters of Albert and Elio Pace side by side. Elio would perform his Billy Joel Songbook right here a few weeks later and some of us hoped he might show up but it shouldn't happen. I met up with Pauline and Rod Brown for a pre-show drink in the foyer before taking our seats. Balcony again but it turned out to be an excellent seat with good view. The show was great again and people showed their appreciation by standing ovations at the end. Great to see Wayne Lee join again closing the show with a raving version of TEAR IT UP. Nice chats and fun later in the foyer, great to catch up with Phil Cranham and friend (who was a German bass player), Jane Craxton with friends and many others. Heartfelt thanks to everybody giving me such a fantastic time, miss you already. Below are some comments which nail it down -  no further amendments needed.

Rod Brown:  "Last night was the final gig of the current ALBERT LEE and his Electric Bands Tour of the UK at Epsom Playhouse, what a night of fantastic music ending with a really Hot Rockin Johnny Burnette number 'Tear It Up' accompanied by Wayne Lee on Piano.
Great to see Dad & Son making Some Exceptional Magic.
Next time May 1st at The Half Moon Putney. He was still suffering a bit but you would never know."

Pauline Brown: "Thanks everyone for kind comments fab last date for wonderful Albert Lee and his AllStar band joined by his son brilliant always Wayne Lee who certainly spiced up the mix. Great as always to catch up with irrepressible Gudrun Schwartz surely platinum super fan she travels all over Europe with some ease. looking forward to the next time 'Half Moon' Putney May 1st "

Jim Cowan:  "Sunday night marked the end of 28 shows in 27 cities in 32 days. Albert and the band of Will, John and Ollie worked hard and tirelessly all month long and delivered the best shows ever every single time. Sue and David worked no less and made it all run smoothly. Thank you all and thanks to those on this posting who we got to see along the way."


Next day I stopped by at Denbies Wine Estate near Dorking meeting up with Jilly Penegar for lunch before carrying on to Stansted airport. It was a nice reunion and Jilly said: "Really great to catch up with Gudrun Schwartz today, shame we didn't have longer to chat. Hope you had a safe journey home. xx"

Identical setlist on both nights:
Set 1:
I'm ready
Wheels
Your boys 
Restless
Evangelina  
Song for the Life
Luxury Liner
Runaway Train
Sweet little Lisa
Rock around with Ollie Vee
Set 2:
Spellbound
No one can make my sunshine smile
Leave my woman alone
Highwayman
Till I gain control again
Tear stained letter
Country Boy

Encore: 
A better place
Back in the USA  (A tribute to Chuck Berry)
Tear it up   (with Wayne Lee, key, voc)

Graham Chambers - "What I've been waiting for" - new album released today 20 May 2016

Graham Chambers has a new album out with 11 original songs, and featuring a group of world renowned musicians.

Graham announced today - 20 May 2016:
"Albert Lee has has done me the absolute honour of playing on my album released today. He plays on the track "I'm out I'm gone". If you'd like to hear it the link to iTunes is below. He is a legend, and I'm so proud our music has connected. Thanks"
https://itunes.apple.com/album/id1114267051?ls=1&app=itunes

Guest musicians are:
Scott Poley, pedal steel guitar
Albert Lee, guitar
Tom Wright, guitar
George Gray, piano
Ray Beavis and The Rumour,  brass section
Pete Lincoln, backing vocals on "I'm out I'm gone"
Elio Pace, piano on "Strong Lovin Woman"
and many more.

Graham announces:
"This week we have had the young talent of Tom Wright recording guitars. I've seen this lad for 4 years touring with Elio, and is destined to be huge in Nashville. Already an album of his own out, he is the next Albert Lee. So glad his name is on my album alongside Kenny Vaughan and Albert Lee. Please check out his site and buy his album."

SOMETHIN' ELSE - Rock'n Roll how it's meant to be! Latest News

HOT FROM THE PRESS  - WATCH OUT FOR THIS BAND

Bobby Cochran, Mike Bell and Brian Hodgson's new rock & roll / Americana band is Somethin' Else!
They played a short tour in February/March this year, photos and reviews are posted on this blog, pls. use label "Bobby Cochran".
Further news will also be posted here.


Band:
Bobby Cochran, lead git, vocals ***
Brian Hodgson, bass  **
Mike Bell, keyboards **
Mikey Ciancio, drums *


***Bobby Cochran is the nephew of the late great Eddie Cochran and a top notch guitarist in his own right. Some parts of the show will be dedicated to 'Uncle Eddie'. Bobby also played with Steppenwolf and the Flying Burrito Brothers, so a great show is guaranteed.

Mikey Ciancio, 2015
(photo: gs)

** Brian Hodgson and Mike Bell are founding members of Albert Lee & Hogan's Heroes.
*  Mikey Ciancio is a young drummer who played with Elio Pace's band, Dona Oxford and many others, check his website.

Last Gig was at Wimborne 08.03.16.
Message from Jim Williams on the bands' FB site:
"So that concludes the Somethin' Else! tour.
On behalf of Bobby, Brian, Mike, Mikey and myself : Thank you so much to everyone who came and supported the band in London, Scotland, Germany and Switzerland.
Special thanks to Gudrun Schwartz, Lee Blackstone, Marie Blackstone, Carrie Davies, Steve Robertson, Sue Hargreaves, David Mundell, Carsten Bostelmann, John and Rita Gonzalves, Bruno Theil, Pat Kelly, Ted Taylor, Charlie North Lewis, Kyle Best and his team, Walter Dieterle, Mike Berry and Peter Donegan.

I recorded some of the shows for a planned tour EP which should hopefully be released soon.
Jim."
   

• Pressemitteilung fuer Europa  (c) gs.

• PRESS RELEASE ENGLISH available on the bands' FB site.
• Review from Mundell Music, Scottish Gig on 27.02.16: Eddie Cochran Tribute Show

More links:
- SOMETHIN' ELSE ON WIKIPEDIA  (EN)
- SOMETHIN' ELSE on Twitter

Elio Pace & Band performing the Billy Joel Songbook, The Capitol Horsham - 12 Sep 2015

Line up:
Elio Pace, vocals, piano, guitar
Johnny Meaney, keyboards, piano, percussion
Tom Wright, guitars
Frank Walden, sax, clarinet, accordion
Dan Francis Owen, bass
Mikey Ciancio, drums.

Elio Pace and Band played at The Capitol in Horsham. Met up with Jilly and we paid a long overdue visit to Elio's "Billy Joel Songbook show". Excellent seats centre front row and hardly an empty seat at this nice venue. The incomparable Elio Pace and his amazing band gave us an outstanding Saturday night. Bass player Neil Fairclough whom I had seen a week earlier in London at the Jerry Lee Lewis Show was missing due to touring with Brian May/Queen. Dan Francis Owen made up for it though.

The band were brilliant, and Jilly and I were surprised how many Billy Joel songs we knew ! Towards the end, the entire audience jumped tp their feet, dancing and clapping away.
Highly recommended - everybody who has the opportunity should go and see this fabulous band. Elio had some nice words for all his fans and those who help to spread the word by posting and commenting on his Facebook sites and other social media.
Later we had nice chats, photos and fun with Elio, we agreed that this wouldn't be our last visit.
Elio wrote me a nice comment on FB later: "Gudrun it was wonderful having you at the show... at last. We'll eventually make it to Germany. Thank you for your very kind words."
So wish they would come over, certainly going down a storm as there are lots of Billy Joel fans around !

Jerry Lee Lewis 80th Birthday Farewell Tour at The Palladium, London - 06 Sep 2015

Sunday Night at The London Palladium
As In The Old Days !
One of those 'once in a lifetime' events, not to be missed. The Killer bid farewell and everybody came. Lots of familiar faces in the crowd, nice to meet up with Claire, Clawdy, Karen - also nice to see Sue Hargreaves, Laura, Wayne Lee as well as Elio Pace and his sister and parents.
Needless to say that the gig was fantastic, some people came dressed up in fifties style and good vibes already before the show started. Among the guests many celebrities could be spotted e.g.

Ringo Starr, Barbara Bach, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Robert Plant. I won't write a review here, rather post some comments/reviews/videos who say it all. Please scroll down to 'Links'.

Musicians:
Mike Read, presenter
Ladyva
Albert Lee
Peter Asher
James Burton
Elio Pace
Neil Fairclough
Joe Evans

Linda Gail Lewis
Annie Marie Lewis
Jerry Lee Lewis

The Memphis Beats:
Ken Lovelace, git, bandleader
Buck Hutcheson, git
Ray Gann, bass
Robert Hall, drums

Setlist JLL:
Drinkin’ Wine Spo-Dee-O-Dee
Down the Line
She Even Woke Me Up to Say Goodbye
Before the Night Is Over
No Headstone on My Grave
See See Rider
Sweet Little Sixteen
You Win Again
Why You Been Gone So Long
Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On
Over the Rainbow
Mexicali Rose
Great Balls of Fire

Links:
New Video / kleine Nachlese / concert recap JERRY LEE LEWIS 2015 Multiangle
Video: YouTube HAPPY BIRTHDAY JERRY
Video: YouTube Mexicali Rose (JLL)
Video:  YouTube Great Balls of fire (JLL)
Video: YouTube Hello Mary Lou (Albert Lee, James Burton, Elio Pace)


From London Evening Standard, published 12 June 2015:
Jerry Lee Lewis says no one compares to 'old guys of the  birth of rock and roll'

An illustrated review by Nick/Vinyl World:  The Killer says farewell to London

Great Music Venue "The Cellars" at Eastney Closing Down

Sad news from Steve Pitt, Eastney, received by e-mail, advertised on Facebook and on the Cellar's website, also thanks to Jilly for passing on:

"It is with deep sadness that we announce the closure, for good, of The Cellars at Eastney, as a music, comedy and theatre venue, on Saturday 1st August 2015.
Despite changes of ownership, The Cellars has been run largely by the same team for nearly 18 years. The current landlord has been amazingly supportive and without him, the venue would certainly have closed in 2011 when, then owner, Enterprise Inns were selling the freehold for development. However, he is simply no longer in a position to subsidise our rent, as he has done for some considerable time and the business is just not in a position to pay the rent in full. He is as gutted as we are that there is no viable way for the venue to continue.

The Cellars would like to thank its committed and loyal customer-base for all of their support. We’re sure many of you will ask how this could happen. The reasons are many and complex, involving national, as well as local issues. However, the simple explanation is that not enough customers are buying enough tickets to enough gigs for us to continue.

Albert Lee & HHs at The Cellars
(Photo gs, 2007)

 Independent music venues like The Cellars are closing all over the UK. We worry about the future opportunities which will be available to the next generation of musicians, if all the experienced and passionate operators are either not replaced at all, or replaced by faceless chains with no interest in local music and musicians. Therefore, we encourage both gig-goers and musicians to give their passionate support to our friends at The Wedgewood Rooms, to ensure that they have a prosperous future.

Lucie Diamond at The Cellars
(Photo thanks to
Angela Wilkins, 2007)

We are not planning to just fade away, there is a full and exciting programme to take us through the final months and we hope that all of you will come along and support us and share some final lasting memories of great nights at The Cellars.
Steve, Gareth and The Cellars Team."

Very sad news indeed, saw great gigs there by Mike Sanchez, Lucie Diamond and Albert Lee & Hogan's Heroes in good company. All our favourite bands used to play there, and they all feel sorry as it was a great little venue, reasonable bar prices, great audience and good atmosphere.

Queen & Adam Lambert, Mercedes Benz Arena (O2) Berlin - 04 Feb 2015

Queen at O 2 Berlin


Line-up:
Brian May, git voc
Roger Taylor, dr voc
Rufus Taylor, dr
Neil Fairclough, bass
Adam Lambert, vocals 

Grandiose Show von Queen & Adam Lambert in der O2 Berlin. Die Show begann mit ca. 20 Minuten Verspätung, aber dann ging es gleich in die Vollen. Super-Stimmung in der prall gefüllten O2, wir hatten noch recht gute Plätze ergattert, die eine ausgezeichnete Sicht auf die Bühne und den Steg ermöglichten. Darüber hinaus sorgten riesige Leinwände für eine gute Sicht von jedem Platz aus. Fotos erlaubt, und Brian May machte ebenfalls Fotos von sich und dem Berliner Publikum. Rundum, eine Hammer-Show mit einem Adam Lambert, der ausgezeichnet in die Band passt.

Kleine Überraschung am Rande: Am Bass war Neil Fairclough von Elio Pace's Band. Elio selbst hat sich die Queen-Show in Mailand angesehen und auf seiner FB Seite ausführlich darüber berichtet.

About Chas & Dave - Recordings with Albert Lee and other information

In the tradition of The Kinks and the Small Faces and around the same time as Ian Dury and Squeeze, Chas and Dave wrote and recorded exceptionally witty songs about life in London, performed with a strong affection for all things English reminiscent of many of the great Music Hall artists many years previously. In their case, however, the musical accompaniment to their sharply observant material was neither rock nor punk but solid, no-nonsense Rock’n’Roll style which had been their background and inspiration. Pianist Chas Hodges and guitarist Dave Peacock were widely experienced around the British rock scene of the 1960s and early 70s before teaming up with drummer Mick Burt (another much-travelled musician who had gone back to his original trade as a plumber) to form the group. Chas had worked with the legendary producer Joe Meek, backed Jerry Lee Lewis, played with Mike Berry and the Outlaws, along with Ritchie Blackmore, and also the highly respected Cliff Bennett and the Rebel Rousers, which had Burt on drums. He then joined Albert Lee’s cult band Heads Hands and Feet; before playing with Dave and Albert in Black Claw. Dave had been equally active, Starting out in The Rolling Stones (no, not them!) in 1960. Spells with The Tumbleweeds, Mick Greenwood, Jerry Donahue, and the above mentioned Black Claw followed prior to the pair coming together to go out on their own as Chas and Dave.

Albert Lee appeared with Chas and Dave on the following albums:

Don't Give a Monkeys (1979) - Chas & Dave
Albert's Credited Role: Guitar
Song List: Gertcha, Rabbit, Banging in Your Head
The album Don't give a monkeys includes guest appearances (besides Albert)
by Eric Clapton and Dave Edmunds

Live at Abbey Road - Chas & Dave
Recorded early 1979 but not released until 1981 (although some tracks from the gig are to be found on side 2 of 1979's 'Don't Give A Monkeys')
Guest appearance: Albert Lee, Eric Clapton



That's What Happens - Chas & Dave (2013)
To be released on 28 Oct 2013.
Recorded at the end of June 2013 at Abbey Road, with Grammy-winning bluesman Joe Henry on production duties, ‘That’s What Happens’ sees Chas and Dave return to their musical roots with a collection of early R&B, skiffle and rock n’ roll classics - alongside new takes on songs of their own. The album is set to highlight their finely-honed, versatile musicianship and intricate vocal harmonies and features a crack team of musicians and special guests including guitarists Albert Lee and Martin Taylor, Buddy Holly and The Crickets’ drummer J. I Allison and on keys Jools Holland and Hugh Laurie.


Chas and Dave Show 1982 with Eric Clapton and Albert Lee
'Slow down Linda / Good night Irene'

Latest news:
CHAS & DAVE:  LAST ORDERS
BBC Four broadcast a documentary about Chas & Dave which can be watched in the UK. Outside the UK, please use the link at the bottom of this page. Duration: 1 hour

"Documentary which highlights cockney duo Chas & Dave's rich, unsung pedigree in the music world and a career spanning 50 years, almost the entire history of UK pop. They played with everyone from Jerry Lee Lewis to Gene Vincent, toured with the Beatles, opened for Led Zeppelin at Knebworth - and yet are known mainly just for their cheery singalongs and novelty records about snooker and Spurs.

The film also looks at the pair's place among the great musical commentators on London life - and in particular the influence of music hall on their songs and lyrics.

The film crew followed Chas & Dave on their final tour, having called it a day after the death of Dave's wife, and blends live concert footage with archive backstory, including some astonishing early performances and duets with the likes of Eric Clapton. Among the experts and zealous fans talking about their love of the duo are Pete Doherty, Jools Holland and Phill Jupitus. Narrated by Arthur Smith."