| But we eventually found The Junction where, with tongues
hanging out and legs crossed, we were able to satisfy our bodily needs.
The melodious tones of The Rainy City at full throttle were drifting
downstairs. Jack Griffiths, the organiser, made us feel welcome and we got
nods, winks or waves from some of the other familiar faces, so we settled
down for a good evening. The Rainy City excelled itself with a well-balanced,
strongly traditional, set. The material was well chosen and varied, combining
some nice instrumental work (which included one of Toms originals,
The Road To Dent), good harmonies and a touch of comedy here and there.
They performed in their usual professional style, which continued unabashed
even when Roisins fiddle rest collapsed mid-stroke - she just didnt
know her own strength! The band played a comedy version of Duelling Banjos
which included a rendering of In The Blue Ridge Mountains Of Virginia. The
agility of Tom and Bill in their dance routine as they parodied Laurel &
Hardy was something to behold. Better watch out, Mind The Step!
Rainy City members Bill, Roisin and
Tom serving time for impersonating
ballet dancers and fiddle flinging.
A thoroughly appreciative audience gave the band well-deserved, rousing applause
at the conclusion of their performance. The rest of the evening continued
with a picking session for anyone who wished to join in playing or singing.
Although we didnt play or sing, it was a very interesting experience
to listen to, and to observe, some of the talented musicians who did. Overall
we had a very enjoyable evening - hopefully there will be more in the future!
Many thanks to Jack and all concerned.
The RCBB, which hosts the regular Prestwich Picking Session, consists of
Tom Degney (lead and harmony vocals, banjo, fiddle, mandolin), brother Bill
(harmony vocals, lead guitar), Brian Waterhouse (lead and harmony vocals,
rhythm guitar), Roisin Browne (fiddle) and Trevor Jones (electric bass, lead
& harmony vocals).
Christine Mannion & Irene Atkin (of The Valley Pickers)

Updated 23rd Jan 1999
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