| ‘Write Bad Things and I’ll Rip Your Head Off’ |  The perils of a concert reviewer are many. Finding the venue, enjoying the performance whilst maintaining an air of impartiality are just two. But it’s rare that one’s future wellbeing is called into question. That’s what you get for writing about the relatives.
This website’s usual method of reporting on gigs consists of an appreciation of the participants, tempered with constructive criticism, should it be fitting. That’s been suspended for now. Normal service will be resumed next time.
Seat of the Pants, aka Heather Dunn and Mike Simmons received a rapturous reception after a flawless display of musical virtuosity at the Cross Keys in Uppermill on Wednesday night.
There were many positives. No one became ill. Despite the fears to the contrary, the Police didn’t ring the place with ropes and red lamps and erect a sign saying 'Danger to Those With Sensitive Hearing'.
Heather remained relatively sober. She only forgot the words once and didn’t get into any fist fights. Apart from the threat detailed in the title to this article there was none of the usual unpleasantness with members of the audience.
Observers applauded in the right places. And at the correct speed. There was none of that slow handclapping that has proved so problematic in the past. Many of them said good things at the end, and not just because the performance was over.
Is that Ok, sis?
Those who haven’t been to the Cross Keys ought to rectify that. It’s a cosy pub on the outskirts of Uppermill in a beautiful setting, with a selection of real ales. Organiser Jim Schofield, has done as much as anyone over the past few decades to keep folk music in the area ticking over.
Concerts usually take place on Wednesdays in the small dining area at the back referred to as the Kitchen (pictured). That was in use by punters practicing Christmas lunch, so Seat of the Pants had to make do with the front room. If anything, it’s better – a more conventional shape, the acoustics are good and it’s easy to close off from the rest of the pub.
Next up is Dave Jones on 16th December, which includes a potato pie supper. Then there are singers nights on 23rd and 30th December before 2010 kicks off with Paul Roberts.
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