GOS UK CONCERT WATCH'98

The Secombe Theatre, Sutton, Surrey
Wednesday, June 3rd

I was seeing Gilbert live for the first time last Wednesday and, although I enjoyed most of the concert, he was obviously unhappy with the sound system. The first half didn't seem too bad but during the second half he got more & more agitated. After "Alone again" he seemed very unhappy, went straight into "Get down" without saying it was the last song and then abruptly left the stage - never to return. The audience kept clapping, expecting an encore, but after a time the house lights came up and a bit of booing started. Was anyone else there who might have an opinion on what happened, and does anyone know if he should have returned for encores? As it was the first date of the tour I guess a few excuses could be made for technical problems, but I don't think he endeared himself to the audience by not returning as the sound in the auditorium was not bad, apart from a buzz in the second half.

Mike Bickerdike
Monday, 08-Jun-98 09:19:37

Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool
Wednesday, June 10th

Hello Joe,

The Liverpool concert went extremely well. The Liverpudlian crowd gave Ray a rousing reception and were all up and standing in their seats or down by the stage at the end of the night. Ray performed a mixture of old material and that from SSM as well as album tracks. In all he was on stage for two hours.

People had come from all over as the Liverpool venue was the most northerly but the people who came the furthest were Reed and Joann Pitkungis who came from New Jersey and attended all concerts! After the show Ray stayed for a couple of hours signing and having photos with the fans. A good night was had by all.

I didn't actually attend the London concert but letters I've received so far seem to show a repeat of the Liverpool gig! I'll know more when I've spoken to Kevin.

I'll be at the open air concert in 2 weeks time so I'll let you know how it goes.

Best wishes,
Lorraine
Sunday, 21-Jun-98