December 23, 1999 Regis Hall, Cradley Heath, West Midlands

Report by Sali and Ismet

Set list (approximate): Season of the Witch / Motel / Bummer in the Summer / North Country Girl / If I Were a Carpenter / Darkness Darkness / Bridge - We’re Gonna Groove / Waiting for my Man / Move / Baby Please Don’t Go / Early in the Morning / Think Encores: Morning Dew / You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet / GLORIA / No Regrets /

Santa’s Song Buddies began the evening by rattling through fifteen vintage rock ‘n rollers from a mixture of Buddy Holly, Elvis etc. I think there was even a Cliff Richard number in there, (though not a number one!!). We liked the interesting chords in ‘Just Because’ and the band really came to life with their Buddy medley - most notably ‘Ready Teddy’. A Brass band - sorry we didn’t catch the name - helped the Christmas mood along with carols, leading up to a resounding drum solo.

At last it was time for the music stand and white rose to come on stage for what Robert described as the last appearance in the Black Country. We were reassured to hear that there will be more of this and he even said ‘Well yes we could do Bristol’ but tonight was very definitely a Black Country evening and it was great fun. For us it was probably the best we’ve attended, Oxford was fantastic but tonight the audience made the evening perfect. We were talking Christmas party with happy friends.

Robert seemed a little serious at first. Perhaps he was worried about Carlisle Egypt who was not feeling well but once those fingers hit those frets it was all smiles and ‘Season of the Witch’ was great. The festive shrine at his feet, complete with Christmas tree, cards, holly and glitter and a little sack of presents also brought a smile. There was much singing along with ‘Motel’ and ‘If I were a Carpenter’ and ‘Bummer in the Summer’ is clearly becoming popular. ‘Darkness’ was wonderful. It’s a perfect vehicle for the band who give it everything they’ve got and Robert’s voice is so good it all sends shivers down the spine. We got a great view of Alistair Crowley as he stood up for his chimes (the Genesis style mirror ball switched on again much to Robert’s surprise!) Brian was on form tonight and there were a few magic moments as he got into the groove as Robert was wanting to testify and later when he gave us some Rosie (a la ‘How Many More Times’), and ‘Let that boy boogie’ reggae!

The two solos during ‘Morning Dew’ were magnificent. Carlisle seemed to rise above his illness as he and Owen Glendwr produced their powerful blood curdling harmonies and discords. We were lucky enough to meet Owen’s mum - Mrs. Glendwr senior - and sister and this was a great experience to share with them. Robert aired the possibility of the band leaving the stage and waiting to be called back for a second encore but decided to go for the ‘conceited bar steward’ option and they remained on stage. Tinsel and mistletoe were contributed to decorate the mike stand and ‘Santa’s Song’ was a perfect ending to a wonderful Black Country season.

After the show Robert and the band were generous with time, smiles and signatures and there was a wonderful atmosphere and feeling that we have been sharing something really special. I got 4 out of 5 signatures on my ticket but Brian proved too elusive for me. Maybe next time. Happy Christmas and Merry Millennium everyone.

article courtesy Sali, who allowed the contents of her Calling to You website to be added to ManicNirvana.com.