London Steelies November 2017

[mick hearn]

A big thanks to John for putting this event on. It was unusual to say the least with some strange backing tracks to ad lib to. I think it was totally unexpected but a good event. It was also great to see those who I have met before and others I have not so that part alone was an experience for me. Nice to meet B J Cole after knowing of him for many years. Matt Park with his big grin as usual - puts a smile on everyones face. What is great is the number of younger steel players which is fantastic and all with talent. Nice to hear their individual styles and wish them all the best.

I have not played my ShoBud since last June so it had an airing. The National on the other hand was sounding really great.

[mandosteve]

It was great to meet you Mick. Great playing from all involved and in your case *both* the ShoBud and the National sounded really great!

See all you chaps soon.

[elparkirio]

Very enjoyable afternoon. We will do another soon.

[elparkirio]

Very attentive

[elparkirio]

Think we were all admiring Barry's playing in this one

[Nick Bidmade]

Brilliant! Looks several steps up from the Bed of Roses (or whatever it was called). Glad the (South) London steel guitar group goes from strength to strength. Big hellos to Andy, Allan, Barry and Jon. Didn't recognise any of the other players in the pics. Was Matt there? If so. I need new specs! Hi Matt.
Good on yer all.

[elparkirio]

Hey Nick, yes I was there. You can't see me in the pics because I'm behind the camera.

[Nick Bidmade]

Doh!

[jonshack]

Thanks fellas, we had a great session, very well attended, twelve of us in all. Despite some technical difficulties, particularly with the PA, we improvised our way through a diverse variety of music including country, singer-songwriter, Hanz Zimmer orchestral, blues-funk, american songbook and several of BJ's ambient compositions. (Mick, you can't say I didn't warn everybody there would be some out-of-the-box choices!). To everyone's credit we all threw ourselves into it and I think (and hope) we all surprised ourselves with how much you can do when pushing the envelope a little.

As ever it's all an excuse to meet up, hang out, talk steel guitars and generally have a great time.

Thanks for the pics Matt! I'll try to post some more tomorrow and put more names to faces.

All the best,
Jonathan

[mick hearn]

Yes John - you did warn me - I just didn't realise how far out of the box. Having said that it was a very interesting excercise and I enjoyed myself. Any chance to meet, play and discuss steels is good and I am ready for the next one. Just keep me on the list.