Enjoy Yourself

I’ve been wanting to see Jools Holland’s Rhythm & Blues Orchestra for some time, so was delighted to see his latest tour was bringing him to Kendal. Unfortunately, on the date in question, I wouldn’t be in Kendal. Nor would I be for the next nearest location (Blackpool the night before). In fact, the closest location I could find, on a night when we were free, was Venue Cymru in Llandudno. It’s a venue we like, but we would normally stay away overnight to avoid a long drive home late at night. Not a problem midweek, out of season - Colwyn Bay Travelodge has been used several times, usually for around £25 per night.
But a Saturday night in the middle of June is a whole different kettle of fish. They wanted over £100. Which is more than the tickets to see Jools cost!
So it was six hours of driving for a three hour show. But it was well worth it. The traffic wasn’t too bad and the show was excellent. Up to 20 people on stage powering their way through a great selection of numbers, all controlled by Jools at his piano. And everyone in the orchestra played a little solo at some point. Superb guest vocalists and there was a mini Squeeze reunion at the end when he was joined on stage by Chris Difford, who had everyone on their feet for a rousing version of “Cool For Cats”.
Everybody back on for the encore (the title of this blip) and we were all up on our feet again, singing and clapping along. A very strict “no photography” policy during the performance. Couldn’t even risk a sneaky one as there was a steward standing right next to our seats! But when everyone was taking their bows after the number there was a tacit agreement that we could take a few photos. So I did. Not the best quality, but I managed to get most of the orchestra in the shot.
An absolutely superb evening, and I would definitely go and see him again. Mrs C was slightly unsure about what to expect beforehand, but was totally converted by the end of the night.
Just have to hope the next tour comes to Kendal (or somewhere close) again, but on a date I’m not otherwise engaged!