Bev Bevan: 2016 Move Dates Confirmed

#1,106: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Bev Bevan - founding member of The Move, ELO and ELO Part II - duly confirmed earlier today [Friday 29th April] that he will be taking his incarnation of The Move back on the road later in 2016. The drummer, percussionist, author and broadcaster will again be joined by Trevor Burton, Phil Tree and Tony Kelsey during what is the 50th anniversary of the iconic Birmingham band. Yours Truly KJS has compiled a gig roster below for you to use and peruse [to be updated with new shows accordingly] thus:

Saturday 17th September

The Core Theatre @ Solihull ~ [0121] 704 6962

Tickets: £20.00 each [*plus booking fee]

thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk/whats-on/all-shows/the-move

Sunday 18th September

Prince Of Wales Theatre @ Cannock ~ [01543] 578762

Tickets: £20.00 each [*plus booking fee]

boxoffice.wlct.org/stageitweb/select_seats.aspx?perfid=761

Friday 23rd September

Aston Wood Golf Club @ Sutton Coldfield ~ [0121] 580 7803

Tickets: £20.00 each [*plus booking fee]

www.astonwoodgolfclub.co.uk/events

Saturday 29th October

Palace Theatre @ Redditch ~ [01527] 65203

Tickets: £20.00 each [*plus booking fee]

www.redditchpalacetheatre.co.uk/whats-on/the-move

Bev and the band will also be joined by Special Guests Ricky Cool & The In Crowd for their concerts at Solihull, Cannock, Redditch and Cheltenham.

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommends The Move ft. Bev Bevan and Trevor Burton to those enlightened folks who also like ELO, Jeff Lynne, Roy Wood, 'Brum Beat', The Idle Race, The Move, The Beatles and related artistes.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 29-Apr-2016

Recommended: Everlastin' Love [Kracked Earth ft. Kelly Groucutt]

#1,105: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Andy Kinch is the mastermind behind Kracked Earth - a band whose excellent album "Splash" was reviewed by ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] back in 2012 here. His solo album "Andy's Diner" was released back in 1998 and on that album was a collaboration with the late, great Kelly Groucutt entitled "Everlastin' Love" which Andy has stripped down and re-recorded in 2016 with a little help from Don Schiff and the beautifully preserved vocals of Kelly. Yours Truly KJS called Andy earlier today to chat about this new Kracked Earth track and asked him for the story behind his forthcoming single thus:

"Back in 1997, when I recorded my album "Andy's Diner", I'd written this little song that had a Mavericks and ELO vibe to it but no-one to sing it. Step forward my little brother Martin who reckoned that he might be able to persuade ELO's Kelly Groucutt to sing it. Well, sing it he did - beautifully! Unfortunately, we were compromised by limited recording resources back in the day and my keyboard setup really wasn't up to delivering authentic sounding string parts. But, the final mix was as good as we could do at the time. Tragically, 2009 saw the sudden and tragic death of Kelly leaving those who knew him - and his fans throughout the world - to come to terms with his loss. Fast forwarding to 2012, I had the pleasure of working via the internet with NS stick player extraordinaire Don Schiff on our Kracked Earth album "Splash". It occurred to me recently that if Kelly were still with us, we could re-record the song in the way that I originally intended, being as Don is a one man string section! Besides bass, he also plays cello, viola, and mandolin! Add a dash of the Mellotron, violins and brass and we had a new backing track. The advancement in technology has now allowed me to isolate Kelly's original vocal from that 1997 session and fully integrate it into this new, updated version. I hope you enjoy "Everlastin' Love" 2016!" ~ Andy Kinch, April 2016

"Everlastin' Love" by Kracked Earth featuring Kelly Groucutt will be released via Melodic Revolution Records [MRR #DS-201160] on Thursday 28th April and you will be available to buy it in digital format via this link thus:

melodicrevolutionrecords.com/album/everlastin-love

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommends "Everlastin' Love" by Kracked Earth featuring Kelly Groucutt to those enlightened folks who also like ELO, Jeff Lynne, Roy Wood, 'Brum Beat', The Idle Race, The Move, The Beatles and related artistes.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 27-Apr-2016

All Over The World Breaks ELO Chart Record

#1,104: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! A rather interesting and noteworthy ELO happening passed under the radar of many on Friday 22nd April at around 5:45PM when the latest Official UK Album Chart revealed that ELO's platinum certified "All Over The World" greatest hits compilation - originally released in June 2005 peaking at #6 - managed to stay in the Top 100 despite slipping eight [8] places from #90 to #98.

You may recall that earlier this year, AOTW joined the 100 Club alongside "A New World Record" and "Out Of The Blue" but last Friday, "All Over The World" clocked up an amazing 109th week in the Top 100, meaning that it had taken over from the original 1977 Jet issue of OOTB as ELO's most successful album in terms of weeks on the chart. And, with AOTW soon to be released in 2LP vinyl format on Friday 10th June, that chart run may extend even further!

Yours Truly KJS and ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] wish to congratulate Jeff Lynne and ELO for yet another remarkable achievement with "All Over The World"!

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 25-Apr-2016

Caught Live [12]: Quill @ The Robin 22/04/16

#1,103: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! A Quill gig at the oft frequented Robin 2 in nearby Bilston is always a big draw both for Yours Truly KJS and their many, loyal fans. Hence, the six [6] mile hop across Wolverhampton on Friday 22nd April is [as always] a must to go hear [and see] what aural nuggets Joy Strachan-Brain and her wonderful sextet will deliver.

And deliver they did with an atmospheric and classy set of the familiar and the new, woven into an Americana thread that only Quill could pull off in front of another healthy audience. If their previous concert at Kidderminster quite literally took me aback, then this one confirmed them as one the most adaptive and adventurous bands to have come out of the Midlands, belying their four [4] decade career and many personnel changes to date. New members Matt Worley and Andy Edwards truly came into their own on the night whilst the show was again underpinned by the smooth guitar licks of Tony Kelsey, the lovely vocal prowess and stage artistry of Joy, the keyboards magic of Abby Brant and [last but not least] the wonderful violin virtuoso of Kate McWilliam. The set sounded great throughout so picking a fave is once again difficult but here goes: I loved Joy's moving acoustic "Life Is Life", Abby's fantastic rendition of "Can't Find My Way Home"; "The Whole Of The Moon" was sublime as was their "Abbey Road Medley" but the new Quill take on the Jeff Lynne penned ELO ballad "Telephone Line" stole the show for me alongside their as yet unnamed new instrumental jig which had all in attendance roaring in appreciation.

Quill were supported again by the talented duo Cooper & Davies, who delivered an entertaining if not foot-tapping collection of their own likeable material combined with clever covers including "Cocaine" and Little Richard's classic "Rip It Up".

Quill have two [2] great gigs coming up. On Friday 27th May they will performing at The Walker Theatre [Theatre Severn] in Shrewsbury [tickets are priced at just £16.00 each] and on Friday 15th July you will find them joining Raymond Froggatt for a double headliner at The Grand Theatre in Wolverhampton [tickets are priced between £19.50 and £22.50 each]. See you there?

Quill were: Joy Strachan-Brain [Vocals/percussion] ~ Kate McWilliam [Violin/vocals] ~ Tony Kelsey [Guitars/vocals] ~ Abby Brant [Keyboards/vocals] ~ Matt Worley [Bass/vocals] ~ Andy Edwards [Drums/percussion]

Quill performed: “The Bells Of Rhymney” ~ “Black Dog Day” ~ “Matador” ~ “A Showman’s Life” ~ "“Better Late Than Never” ~ “Telephone Line” ~ “Can’t Find My Way Home” ~ “Life Is Life” ~ “Say It Ain’t So” ~ “Nine Mile Camp” ~ New Jig Medley ~ “The Whole Of The Moon” ~ “Say Goodbye” ~ England Medley: “Wild Mountain Thyme”/“England”/“Jerusalem” ~ Encore: “Golden Slumbers”/“Carry That Weight”/“The End”

Find out what Quill are up to by visiting their official web site via this link thus:

Official QUILL web site

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommends Quill to those enlightened folks who also like ELO, Jeff Lynne, Roy Wood, 'Brum Beat', The Idle Race, The Move, The Beatles and related artistes.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 24-Apr-2016

More Classic ELO Albums Set for Vinyl Comeback

#1,102: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Yours Truly KJS is pleased to inform you that it very much looks as if the next batch of original Electric Light Orchestra [ELO] album re-releases are on the way via Sony/Legacy. "Face The Music" [1975], "Discovery" [1979] and "Time" [1981] will be released on Friday 1st July and they are now listed by amazon.co.uk and HMV Japan via these links thus:

www.amazon.co.uk/Face-Music-VINYL/dp/B01D00NVDE

www.amazon.co.uk/Discovery-VINYL/dp/B01D00NVDO

www.amazon.co.uk/Time-VINYL-Elo/dp/B01D00NVDY

www.hmv.co.jp/artist_Electric-Light-Orchestra-ELO/Face-The-Music-Ltd_7021900

www.hmv.co.jp/artist_Electric-Light-Orchestra-ELO/Discovery-Ltd_7021903

www.hmv.co.jp/artist_Electric-Light-Orchestra-ELO/Time-Ltd_7021901

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] very much looks forward to the long overdue return of these classic ELO LP's not only in their original 12" glory but also in limited edition 180g clear vinyl.

For the record, "Eldorado" [1974], "A New World Record" [1976] and "Out Of The Blue" [1977] were also issued in 180g clear vinyl last year on Friday 18th December and the same albums are also due to be reissued in 180g black vinyl on Friday 27th May. "All Over The World" is also set to debut in 2LP black vinyl on Friday 10th June.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 23-Apr-2016

ChartWatch: ELO Album Duo Remain in Top 100

#1,101: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! The latest Official UK Album Chart Top 100 announced earlier today revealed that the Jeff Lynne's ELO album "Alone In The Universe" remains in the Top 100 having slipped fourteen places from #81 to #95.

Meanwhile, ELO's platinum certified 2005 "All Over The World" greatest hits set, soon to be released in 2LP vinyl, is down eight places at #98 from #90 last week as Jeff Lynne's ELO continue to perform in front of packed houses and reap rave reviews during their current UK and European tour - more than ably supported, of course, by The Feeling.

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommends "Alone In The Universe" and "All Over The World" to those enlightened folks who enjoy the music of ELO, Jeff Lynne, Roy Wood, The Move, The Idle Race, 'Brum Beat', The Beatles and related artistes.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 22-Apr-2016

Remembering Prince

#1,100: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! The shock of the unexpected and sudden passing of Prince Rodgers Nelson at the relatively young age of 57 is now travelling around the globe at breakneck speed. In the different spheres that Jeff Lynne and Prince travailed in, you would never have put these two musical giants together. Yet, twelve [12] years ago, they shared the same stage for the 2004 Rock & Roll Hall Of Fame induction ceremony. The late, great George Harrison was, of course, posthumously awarded the honour that year with fellow Traveling Wilbury brothers Jeff Lynne and Tom Petty receiving it on his behalf.

What we witnessed was an astonishing glimpse of the guitar prowess of the man who had already given us "1999", "Purple Rain", "When Doves Cry", "Manic Monday", "Kiss","Raspberry Beret" [one of my faves] and many, many more gems in a career spanning over four [4] decades. Fans of ELO, Jeff Lynne and George Harrison were won over in their droves and they continue to laud his magnificent performance and the immense talents of this master musician from Minneapolis on this, the most saddest of days. Yours Truly KJS and ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] today mourn the passing of the Artist who was known as Prince.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 21-Apr-2016

The Idle Race: Double RSD Vinyl Delight

#1,099: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! After queuing for a couple of hours in the early morning of Saturday 16th April outside Vinyl & Vintage in Wolverhampton during a rather unexpected snow shower, Yours Truly KJS was fortunate enough to purchase the RSD16 release of the second self titled studio album by The Idle Race. And what a beautiful production it is [see above] in its textured sleeve and stunning splattered coloured 180g vinyl breathing new life into an album first released back in November 1969 via Liberty Records.

IDLE RACE CONFIRMED AS RSD2016 RELEASE

IN PICTURES: THE IDLE RACE: THE BIRTHDAY PARTY RSD RELEASE

The folks at Parlophone Records and Record Store Day really have excelled themselves when it comes to putting The Idle Race back on the vinyl map. The RSD14 release of their debut album "The Birthday Party" was equally stunning [see below] in 180g gold vinyl and magnificent gatefold sleeve, replicating the original LP issued in October 1968.

It is too much to expect to see their post-Jeff Lynne third release "Time Is" complete the set? ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] would truly love to see another pleasant Idle Race surprise in a future Record Store Day. No harm in hoping for that, however unlikely ...

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 19-Apr-2016

Traveling Wilburys Collection Set for June Reissue

#1,098: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! The Traveling Wilburys Collection is set for a physical re-release and digital debut via major streaming services on Friday 3rd June thanx to Concord Bicycle Music. The expansive Wilburys overview - which reached #1 in the Official UK Album Chart back in June 2007 - will replicate the original Rhino issue, including both the Vol. 1 and Vol. 3 albums [c/w bonus tracks] and DVD "The True History Of The Traveling Wilburys" in several formats.

You can choose from the limited edition, numbered 2CD+1DVD box set, the standard 2CD+1DVD issue, the deluxe 180g vinyl box set and/or as those new hi-resolution digital downloads. Yours Truly KJS understands that there will be no 'new' material in the package. Pre-orders can be placed with amazon.co.uk and amazon.com via these links thus:

Ltd. Edition: www.amazon.co.uk/Traveling-Wilburys-Collection/dp/B01E7FLJ44
Std. Edition: www.amazon.co.uk/Traveling-Wilburys-Collection/dp/B01E7FLJ26
www.amazon.co.uk/Traveling-Wilburys-Collection-VINYL/dp/B01E7FLJ4E
www.amazon.com/Traveling-Wilburys-Collection-DVD-Combo/dp/B01E7FLJ44
www.amazon.com/Traveling-Wilburys-Collection-Combo-Deluxe/dp/B01E7FLJ26
www.amazon.com/Traveling-Wilburys-Collection-Vinyl-Box/dp/B01E7FLJ4E

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommends The Traveling Wilburys Collection to those enlightened folks who enjoy the music of ELO, Jeff Lynne, Roy Wood, The Move, The Idle Race, 'Brum Beat', The Beatles and related artistes.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 18-Apr-2016

Caught Live [2]: Jeff Lynne's ELO @ Birmingham 16/04/16

#1,097: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Perhaps it was written in the stars that Yours Truly KJS would get the opportunity to experience the spectacle of Jeff Lynne's ELO performing "Down Home Town" at The Genting Arena [NEC] in Birmingham last night [Saturday 16th April]. But to be able to be there [with a little assistance from ELO superfan Dave Jones] forty four [44] years to the day since ELO made their debut at The Greyhound in Croydon and knowing also that co-founder Roy Wood was in the proverbial building was clearly meant to be.

If the live bow of EJLO at Liverpool a week and a half ago was poignant and emotional, this concert was also atmospheric and all the more visually stunning as the ELO maestro, right hand man Richard Tandy and their merry band of electric light fantastic musicians took another packed house on a journey through the ELO songbook with a fair selection of hits, album tracks and a two [2] songs from latest Top 5 album "Alone In The Universe". The set list was slightly different with "When the Night Comes" aptly replaced by their first hit single "10538 Overture" and "Telephone Line" elevated to a slot betwixt "Wild West Hero" and "Turn To Stone" - but the effect was the same with nearly all the 14,000 originally seated onlookers actively standing, singing and shouting to every lyric that tumbled forth out of Jeff's mouth. This was a triumphant homecoming. A first live gig in Brum from Mr. Lynne in just over thirty [30] years and not far from his beloved Shard End.

The Feeling: Sensing a positive reaction ...

The mutual respect and admiration of ELO's fan base was enjoined by The Feeling who again delivered an energetic and powerful set of songs to energise their audience with front man Dan Gillespie Sells regularly citing the influence of ELO/Jeff Lynne on their own songwriting career whilst the band gave us a tempting taste of their own songbook and their self titled fifth album.

"Turn To Stone" ... ELO rocks!

Highlights were many but the crowd reaction to "Livin' Thing" and "Wild West Hero" was amazing. For me, hearing "Secret Messages" live was again spine tingling and - with an improved view of the imagery and lighting, I was blown away by "10538 Overture" [especially knowing that Woody was in attendance] and "Turn To Stone". There is perhaps a need to include a song from "Time" in the set and the likes of "Calling America" or a medley would also be welcome.

"Telephone Line" ...

How things have changed for ELO since that night in 1972 eh? Those of you going to the remaining dates on either side of the Atlantic are truly in for a treat. We look forward to a DVD/Blu-Ray release for the AITU tour and, yes, I'm already counting down the 68 days to what will be my third EJLO gig in three [3] months on Friday 24th June at The Barclaycard Arena [NIA] ...

Jeff Lynne's ELO performed: "Tightrope" ~ "Evil Woman" ~ "Showdown" ~ "All Over The World" ~ "When I Was A Boy" ~ "Livin' Thing" ~ "Ain't It A Drag" ~ "Can't Get It Out Of My Head" ~ "Rockaria!" ~ "10538 Overture" ~ "Secret Messages" ~ "Steppin' Out" ~ "Shine A Little Love" ~ "Wild West Hero" ~ "Telephone Line" ~ "Turn To Stone" ~ "Don't Bring Me Down" ~ "Sweet Talkin' Woman" ~ "Mr. Blue Sky" ~ "Roll Over Beethoven"

Jeff Lynne's ELO were: Jeff [Lead vocals/guitars] ~ Richard Tandy [Piano/keyboards/piano] ~ Mike Stevens [Musical Director/guitars/vocals] ~ Milton McDonald [Guitars/vocals] ~ Lee Pomeroy [Bass/vocals] ~ Donavan Hepburn [Drums] ~ Bernie Smith [Keyboards] ~ Marcus Byrne [Keyboards] ~ Iain Hornal [Backing vocals/guitars] ~ Melanie Lewis McDonald [Backing vocals] ~ Rosie Langley [Violin] ~ Amy Langley [Cello] ~ Jess Cox [Cello]

Find out what Jeff Lynne's ELO are up to by visiting their official web site via this link thus:

www.jefflynneselo.com
See also: CAUGHT LIVE: JEFF LYNNE'S ELO @ LIVERPOOL 05/04/16

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommends Jeff Lynne's ELO and The Feeling to those enlightened folks who love ELO, Jeff Lynne, Roy Wood, 'Brum Beat', The Idle Race, The Traveling Wilburys, The Move, The Beatles and related artistes.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 17-Apr-2016

ChartWatch: Alone In The Universe Back in Top 100

#1,096: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! The latest Official UK Album Chart Top 100 announced earlier today revealed that the Jeff Lynne penned, played and produced UK Top 5 album "Alone In The Universe" has returned to the Top 100 at #81 alongside ELO's platinum certified 2005 "All Over The World" greatest hits set - soon to be released in 2LP vinyl format - at #90 as Jeff Lynne's ELO continue to perform in front of packed houses and reap rave reviews during their current UK tour - more than ably supported, of course, by The Feeling.

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommends "Alone In The Universe" and "All Over The World" to those enlightened folks who enjoy the music of ELO, Jeff Lynne, Roy Wood, The Move, The Idle Race, 'Brum Beat', The Beatles and related artistes.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 15-Apr-2016

Recommended: Girl I'm Gonna Miss You [BGO]

#1,095: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! The light fantastic Bubble Gum Orchestra [BGO] will be celebrating the re-issue of their classic 2011 album "Out Of This World" with the single "Girl I'm Gonna Miss You" on Tuesday 19th April. The track will be available to purchase as a download WAV file for just $0.99 via this link thus:

www.bubblegumorchestra.com/track/996213/girl-im-gonna-miss-you-remixed-remastered-2016

The new single is taken from a remixed and remastered "Out Of This World" which is set for release in early May in both digital and CD formats - with the physical edition personally signed by BGO maestro Michael Laine Hildebrandt himself! ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] has been graciously afforded the opportunity to listen to the 'new' OOTW in advance and can confirm it is another BGO sonic masterpiece! The album will only be available to purchase upon release via the official BGO web site thus:

www.bubblegumorchestra.com

ELOBF: REVIEW: OUT OF THIS WORLD [Bubble Gum Orchestra]

2016 is looking to be a very busy year for Michael and BGO with their fifth studio album "Sticky Love Songs" - a twenty [20] song 'double album' opus - also due for release soon. ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] will, of course, be on hand to review "Sticky Love Songs" soon too!

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommends "Out Of This World" [2016] by Bubble Gum Orchestra to those enlightened folks who enjoy the music of ELO, Jeff Lynne, Roy Wood, The Idle Race, The Move, The Beatles and related artistes.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 14-Apr-2016

Fave ELO Songs: Stephanie Hirst

#1,094: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! This is #3 in a series of ELOBF special posts. TV and Radio broadcaster/writer Stephanie Hirst was among the throngs at Leeds earlier this week to witness the triumphant live return of Jeff Lynne's ELO. Yours Truly KJS touched base with Steph and asked her not only what ELO songs she enjoyed but also what her fave tracks by The Beatles were thus:

KJS: "What were your fave ELO songs?"
SH: "Oooh ... "Tightrope" ... "Big Wheels" ... "Can't Get It Out Of My Head" ... aarrgghh! So many! "Tightrope" if I have to choose!"

KJS: "And what would be your top Beatles tunes?

SH: "Oh and my fave song of ALL time is "In My Life" from "Rubber Soul"! My fave album of all time is "Abbey Road"!

FAVE ELO SONGS: JUDIE TZUKE   FAVE ELO SONGS: OWEN PAUL

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] wishes to thank Stephanie Hirst for taking part in this article.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 13-Apr-2016

Recommended: 50th Anniversary Tour [The Move ft. Bev Bevan & Trevor Burton]

#1,093: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Brian Yeates announced today [Monday 11th April ] that Bev Bevan and Trevor Burton will once again be taking their incarnation of The Move out on the road again this Autumn with Phil Tree and Tony Kelsey to celebrate the fiftieth [50th] anniversary of the band who headed up 'Brum Beat' and ultimately gave birth to The Electric Light Orchestra [ELO].

The tour follows the Record Store Day 2016 vinyl re-issue of their "Something Else" EP on Saturday 16th April and the highly anticipated expanded CD editions of their critically acclaimed studio albums "Move" and "Shazam" on Friday 29th April as well as "Looking On" and the "Something Else" EP on Friday 27th May. Find out more about the current band, their rich history and the forthcoming tour via this link thus:

yeatesentertainment.co.uk/touring-shows/all-shows/the-move

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 11-Apr-2016

Ain't It A Drag: Oh No Not Swearing

#1,092: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! "Ain't It A Drag" was surprisingly elected as the third 'single' taken from the Jeff Lynne's ELO album "Alone In The Universe" with a 'release' date of Friday 1st April. The radio edit was distributed in advance to most UK radio broadcasters and select journalists with the lyrics "Just when you think it's cool, the sh*t hits the fan" slightly modified to read "Just when you think it's cool, it all hits the fan".

That new radio friendly version of "Ain't It A Drag" prompted me to think on what other Jeff Lynne penned ELO songs might also include slightly colourful lyrics. One instance that instantly comes to mind is the line "They just don't mean a f***ing thing" during "Oh No Not Susan" on 1973's "On The Third Day". The only other occurrence that I can think of is found within "Easy Money" on 2001's "Zoom" with "The only thing you gave me was sh*t and promises".

Yours Truly KJS cannot recall any other risque ELO lyrics at the time of writing. Can you?

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 10-Apr-2016

One Day in June

#1,091: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! Fans of ELO and The Beatles should definitely consider marking Friday 10th June firmly in their diaries as a trio of collections and compilations are now scheduled for release on that date. Regular visitors to ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] will know that ELO's triple platinum greatest hits best seller "All Over The World" will finally see a 2LP vinyl release on that date alongside Paul McCartney's recently announced "Pure McCartney", which will include up to six tracks from Macca's 1997 LP "Flaming Pie", co-produced, of course, by Jeff Lynne thus:

COMING SOON: ALL OVER THE WORLD IN 2LP VINYL

FLAMING PIE SERVES UP MAJOR SLICE OF PURE McCARTNEY

But now, in addition to those two, amazon.co.uk have now listed a 'new' 5CD boxed set entitled: "The Studio Albums 1973-1977" `which will include "On The Third Day", "Eldorado", "Face The Music", "A New World Record" and "Out Of The Blue" just in time for that much anticipated Glastonbury appearance by Jeff Lynne's ELO. Interestingly. no bonus tracks are listed and the package does not include "ELO II". You can pre-order this release from amazon.co.uk via this link thus:

www.amazon.co.uk/Studio-Albums-1973-1977-Electric-Orchestra/dp/B01DW9O100

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommends all three releases to those enlightened folks who enjoy the music of Jeff Lynne's ELO, Roy Wood, The Move, The Idle Race, 'Brum Beat', The Beatles and related artistes.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 07-Apr-2016

Caught Live: Jeff Lynne's ELO @ Liverpool 05/04/16

#1,090: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! What started in November 1977 when Yours Truly KJS was barely ten years old finally came to fruition yesterday evening [Tuesday 5th April 2016] when a journey that began with the purchase of "Turn To Stone" - in a rather fetching 7" deep blue picture sleeve emblazoned with the legendary ELO logo - reached fulfillment in the most apt of locations for ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] at the impressive Echo Arena in Liverpool as I saw and heard ELO maestro Jeff Lynne with my own eyes and ears for the very first time. And what a show it was!

Curtain About To Fall: EJLO are unveiled ...

But firstly, mention has to be made for the polished and powerful support set by The Feeling. Featuring the likes of "Fill My Little World", "Never Be Lonely", "Spiralling", "Join With Us" and the odd track from their fifth LP, they were not overawed at all at the prospect of readying the 9,000 in attendance for the arrival of EJLO. The Feeling more than held their own, earned their applause and were a real a credit to themselves.

The packed house awaits the arrival of Jeff Lynne's ELO ...

And then it began. The first UK arena concert in nearly thirty years for the band dubbed as the "son of Beatles" by none other than John Lennon himself made their bow in front of a packed house to rapturous if not frenzied applause as they opened with the anthemic "Tightrope" whilst the thin black curtain veil unfurled and the decades were rolled back. Their twenty song set was much too short to effectively cover both their hits, the odd album track - "Steppin' Out" was sublime - as well as material from 2015's "Alone In The Universe" long player but what we did get was a superlative audio and visual performance by Jeff's latest ELO incarnation which delighted those assembled and literally brought this writer to tears. Critics might say that there were no "Time" tracks or that there wasn't room for "Strange Magic", "Ma Ma Ma Belle" or even "One Step At A Time" but, for me, the set was as concise and compact as it could have possibly been as we were treated to three nuggets from AITU and many of those Jeff Lynne penned ELO pearls we all know and love many times over. This concert was everything I expected it to be because it had a menu to whet the appetite of every member of the ELO fan base.

The band evidenced the undoubted rehearsal and meticulous preparation Musical Director Mike Stevens with faithful lieutenant Richard Tandy continually adding his finger finesse to the proceedings. Every song was orchestrated to send the throngs into raptures - just as we expected after such a long live hiatus. When coupled with the astounding visual effects, we witnessed the long envisaged marriage between a rock band and a light orchestra birthed in the Sixties with our own eyes. The biggest crowd reaction - in my opinion - was reserved for "Turn To Stone" and the highlight of the night for me was the absolute thrill of hearing "Secret Messages" performed live by the man himself, Yours Truly KJS sobbed as I drank in this wonderful experience in the very home of The Beatles. Those of you who will get to see the remaining sold-out dates of the "Alone In the Universe" tour in the UK, Ireland, The Netherlands, Switzerland and the United States are in for a real treat! Now where did I put that handkerchief? [11/10]

Jeff Lynne's ELO performed: "Tightrope" ~ "Evil Woman" ~ "Showdown" ~ "All Over The World" ~ "When I Was A Boy" ~ "Livin' Thing" ~ "Ain't It A Drag" ~ "Can't Get It Out Of My Head" ~ "Rockaria!" ~ "When The Night Comes" ~ "Secret Messages" ~ "Steppin' Out" ~ "Shine A Little Love" ~ "Wild West Hero" ~ "Turn To Stone" ~ "Don't Bring Me Down" ~ "Sweet Talkin' Woman" ~ "Telephone Line" ~ "Mr. Blue Sky" ~ "Roll Over Beethoven"

Jeff Lynne's ELO were: Jeff [Lead vocals/guitars] ~ Richard Tandy [Piano/keyboards/piano] ~ Mike Stevens [Musical Director/guitars/vocals] ~ Milton McDonald [Guitars/vocals] ~ Lee Pomeroy [Bass/vocals] ~ Donavan Hepburn [Drums] ~ Bernie Smith [Keyboards] ~ Marcus Byrne [Keyboards] ~ Iain Hornal [Backing vocals/guitars] ~ Melanie Lewis McDonald [Backing vocals] ~ Rosie Langley [Violin] ~ Amy Langley [Cello] ~ Jess Cox [Cello]

Find out what Jeff Lynne's ELO are up to by visiting their official web site via this link thus:

Jeff Lynne's ELO Official

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommends Jeff Lynne's ELO to those enlightened folks who love ELO, Jeff Lynne, Roy Wood, 'Brum Beat', The Idle Race, The Traveling Wilburys, The Move, The Beatles and related artistes.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 06-Apr-2016

Caught Live [11]: Quill @ Kidderminster 02/04/16

 #1,089: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! The short trip to see the latest incarnation of Quill at the cosy Rose Theatre last night [Saturday 2nd April] was deemed necessary by ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] to see how the legendary Midlands Celtic rock outfit would present themselves after a reshuffle in personnel, in the second of two [2] consecutive weekend dates in Kidderminster. My curiosity was rewarded as Joy Strachan-Brain's talented sextet delivered a stunning set that delivered the familiar with an injection of new, original material and quite inspired interpretations of classic songs that literally amazed Yours Truly KJS.

But first a mention for local musician Dave Onions, who provided an entertaining and impressive supporting set beforehand consisting of six songs including "Train Of Fools", "WIP". "Busking" and my personal fave "Aftershock". In fact, Dave has an interesting ELO connection in that the track "Global Man" on his second album "Six Degrees Of Separation" was produced by none other that ELO keyboard maestro Richard Tandy!

The new look Quill arrived on stage not longer later and from the first moment, they were full of pleasant sonic surprises. This was the first time that I'd seen and heard the ultra-talented Abby Brant, new bassist Matt Worley and ex-Robert Plant percussionist Andy Edwards perform together with the established trio of leader Joy, violinist Kate McWilliam alongside ace guitarist Tony Kelsey and their delivery of Pete Seeger's "The Bells Of Rhymney" revealed not only a new song but that new sound. If that didn't grab the healthy attendances attention, then the three [3] new songs from their forthcoming new studio album, namely "Black Dog Day", "Better Late Than Never" and "Say Goodbye" most certainly did! They blended effortlessly with the reinvented "Matador", "Say It Ain't So", "Nine Mile Camp" and "Life Is Life" - so different and yet almost completely new. Abby's fantastic delivery of Steve Winwood's ethereal "Can't Find My Way Home" was wonderful as was the sublime new Quilltastic rendition of Mike Scott's "The Whole Of The Moon". I also loved the 'new' medley that took the place of "The Celtic Experience" but the biggest smile on my face was generated by the transformation of Jeff Lynne's wonderful power ballad "Telephone Line" into a sultry, bluesy masterpiece. The band saved another surprise until they launched into a new encore incorporating The Beatles "Abbey Road Medley" finale of "Golden Slumbers", "Carry That Weight" and "The End" to send those watching into animated rapture.

This concert revealed a paradox regarding the band who are Quill. The names and faces of two thirds of the band have changed since I first saw them perform live yet, even with the dramatic change in set list and the transformation of their sound to that of smooth Americana, they were still Quill. A newer, polished Quill who promise much as they start recording their new album this week. Much credit is due to Joy Strachan-Brain, who continues to wow audiences with both Quill and her growing reputation as one of Britain's most adaptable and best female singers.

Quill will next be performing on Friday 22nd April at The Robin 2 in Bilston. Tickets are priced at £12.50 in advance or £15.00 on the night. See you there?

Quill were: Joy Strachan-Brain [Vocals/percussion] ~ Kate McWilliam [Violin/vocals] ~ Tony Kelsey [Guitars/vocals] ~ Abby Brant [Keyboards/vocals] ~ Matt Worley [Bass/vocals] ~ Andy Edwards [Drums/percussion]

Quill performed: “The Bells Of Rhymney” ~ “Black Dog Day” ~ “Matador” ~ “A Showman’s Life” ~ "“Better Late Than Never” ~ “Telephone Line” ~ “Can’t Find My Way Home” ~ “Life Is Life” ~ “Say It Ain’t So” ~ “Falling Slowly” ~“Nine Mile Camp” ~ New Jig Medley ~ “The Whole Of The Moon” ~ “Say Goodbye” ~ England Medley: “Wild Mountain Thyme”/“England”/“Jerusalem” ~ Encore: “Golden Slumbers”/“Carry That Weight”/“The End”

Find out what Quill are up to by visiting their official web site via this link thus:

Official QUILL web site

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommends Quill to those enlightened folks who also like ELO, Jeff Lynne, Roy Wood, 'Brum Beat', The Idle Race, The Move, The Beatles and related artistes.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 03-Apr-2016

Roy Wood: Goin' Down The Road in 2016

#1,088: Hello ... Hello ... my old friends ... It's great to see you once again! ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] is pleased to inform you that Roy Wood, the legendary singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who founded The Move, ELO and Wizzard will again be touring the UK in 2016 with his superb Rock 'n' Roll Band, playing several venues around the UK in his annual series of pre-Christmas gigs. Here are the dates that are already confirmed for you to peruse thus:

[1] Saturday 8th October
The Forum Theatre, Billingham
Tickets: £28.50 each [*plus booking fee]
forumtheatre.ticketsolve.com/shows/873557362/events/roy-wood

[2] Thursday 13th October
Memorial Hall & City Hall, Sheffield
Tickets: £28.50 each [*plus booking fee]
www.sheffieldcityhall.co.uk/events/Roy-Wood-2016

[3] Sunday 16th October
The Alban Arena, St. Albans
Tickets: £28.50 each [*plus booking fee]
www.ents24.com/st-albans-events/the-alban-arena/roy-wood

[4] Friday 21st October
The Pavilion Theatre, Bournemouth
Tickets: £28.50 each [*plus booking fee]
www.ents24.com/bournemouth-events/BournemouthPavilion/roy-wood

[5] Sunday 30th October
Palace Theatre, Westcliffe-on-Sea, Essex
Tickets: £27.00 to £31.50 each [*inc. booking fee]
southendtheatres.org.uk/Online/palace-theatre/roy-wood

[6] Sunday 6th November
The Corn Exchange, King's Lynn
Tickets: £28.50 each [*plus booking fee]
www.kingslynncornexchange.co.uk/event/roy-wood-1078

[7] Saturday 12th November
The Playhouse, Whitley Bay
Tickets: £28.50 each [*plus booking fee]
www.ents24.com/whitley-bay-events/playhouse-whitley-bay/roy-wood

[8] Saturday 19th November

St. Andrews Hall, Norwich

Tickets: £28.50 each [*plus booking fee]

www.ents24.com/norwich-events/st-andrews-and-blackfriars-halls/roy-wood

[9] Friday 25th November
The Guild Hall, Preston
Tickets: £28.50 each [*plus booking fee]
www.prestonguildhall.com/events/view/463

  [10] Monday 28th November
The Orchard Theatre, Dartford
Tickets: from £32.00 each [*plus booking fee]
orchardtheatre.co.uk/Online/events/roy-wood-million-sellers-xmas-show

[11] Sunday 4th December
Embassy Theatre, Skegness
Tickets: £28.50 each [*plus booking fee]
www.ents24.com/skegness-events/embassy-theatre/roy-wood

[12] Thursday 8th December

The Robin 2, Bilston, Wolverhampton

Tickets: £20.00 each [advance] or £22.50 each [door][*plus booking fee]

www.therobin.co.uk/whats_on/giginfo.asp?gigid=4576

[13] Friday 9th December
Philharmonic Hall, Liverpool
Tickets: £28.50 each [*plus booking fee]
www.seetickets.com/event/roy-wood-and-his-band/philharmonic-hall

[14] Sunday 11th December
The Corn Exchange, Ipswich
Tickets: £28.50 each [*plus booking fee]
www.ents24.com/ipswich-events/corn-exchange/roy-wood

[15] Monday 12th December
The Hawth Theatre, Crawley
Tickets: £28.50 each [*plus booking fee]
www.ents24.com/crawley-events/hawth-theatre/roy-wood

[16] Tuesday 13th December
Assembly Hall, Worthing
Tickets: £29.00 each [*plus booking fee]
www.seetickets.com/event/roy-wood-and-his-band/assembly-hall

[17] Thursday 15th December
The Picturedrome, Holmfirth
Tickets: £20.00 each [*plus booking fee]
www.ents24.com/holmfirth-events/holmfirth-picturedrome/roy-wood

[18] Sunday 18th December
G Live, Guildford
Tickets: £28.50 each [*plus booking fee]
www.ents24.com/guildford-events/g-live/roy-wood

[19] Tuesday 20th December
Roy Wood's Rockmas 2016 @ The Symphony Hall, Birmingham
Tickets: £32.50 each [*plus booking fee]
www.thsh.co.uk/event/roy-woods-rockmas-2016

[20] Friday 23rd December
The Dome, Doncaster
Tickets: £22.00 each [*plus booking fee]
www.seetickets.com/event/roy-wood-rock-and-roll-band/the-dome

The above gig roster will be updated as soon as new Roy Wood events are listed and/or announced so please keep checking back and/or consider bookmarking this ELOBF article on your browser.

www.roywood.co.uk

ELO Beatles Forever [ELOBF] recommends Roy Wood to those enlightened folks who enjoy the music of ELO & Jeff Lynne, The Move, Wizzard, The Idle Race, 'Brum Beat', The Beatles and related artistes.

Until next "Time" in the ELO [and related] Universe ... KJS ... 02-Apr-2016