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Stag Theatre, Sevenoaks

Posted by manicdrums in 2002 John Jorgenson & Friends UK Tour

This is the biggest venue we are going to play in this tour, and the ‘showcase’ gig for us this time. We were up and on the road early (sadly leaving the wonderful surroundings of our hosts). The drive across the Peak District National Park was worth it though, even if the weather was as wet and windy as ever. I cannot remember experiencing weather QUITE this bad in June – even in England!

We made it to Sevenoaks by 3pm – miraculous, considering the traffic was building all the way – being the last day of the extended Jubilee holiday, many people were heading home. The loading bay consisted of a large lift that I backed the van onto, which was then raised to stage level by hydraulics! Truly ingenius, and really made the load-in easy! The crew were professional and helpful. All this made setting up all the more pleasant.

This gig is the brainchild of Graham Webb. The promoter, Ian Bowden, from Backbeat entertainment, helped organise my drum workshop at the Kent Music School on the 26th May. Tonight, Graham Webb’s daughters, Hattie and Charlie (collectively known as Sisters Webb) will be joining us for 2 songs, and their younger brother, Bradley, will be playing percussion on one song, as well as playing drums for the jazz trio in the theatre bar! Amazing.

I had more than a touch of nerves before the gig. Rehearsal and soundcheck had taken longer than expected (as these things often do), and I was not sufficiently prepared for the show for my liking. Once on stage, though, the nerves dissipated, and I was able to have fun. Scott had dialed in by far the best ear monitor mix so far, so I really heard everything. Bradley Webb was fabulous on congas for our rendition of Hank Marvin’s “Man of Mystery”. By the intermission, we were all much more relaxed and at ease. The second half featured the two songs of Sisters Webb, which was a treat for all of us. They are stars of the future…. watch this space!

Folk-based guitar and harp, with vocal harmonies interwoven. Put all this into a band context, and there you have it!

After the show, we all went back to the Webb family house, deep in the Kent countryside, and had a huge Midnight feast of curry and chicken! After that, we had to sort out the sleeping arrangements. Scott and I ended up on the floor of their music room. Quite frankly, I was so exhausted, I could have slept anywhere! And I did! Ear plugs in, eye mask on… and it was Goodnight!