The J45s

The heatwave continues, but so do the gigs!

Tonight, The J45s (Simon, Pete, Johnny and yours truly) are at the Mad Squirrel in Amersham — a cracking venue in a stunning location with an impressive 25 beer taps to help everyone stay refreshed.

For guitar enthusiasts, the "Jimmy Egypt" Stratocaster will be making a guest appearance this evening.

We're on stage from 7:30pm.

Excited to be playing this Saturday with The J45s at the stylish, family-friendly RBL venue in Greenford. We hit the stage at 8:30 pm — here’s hoping we keep cool in this heatwave! Everyone’s welcome, even if you’re not a member

Another packed-out, fun night!

The J45s are back at The Bulstrode this Saturday, for a  ‘Rock Until You Drop’ celebration gig at this iconic 15th-century pub, right next to Hounslow Central station!
Enjoy top-notch Asian cuisine as band members will tuck into a Ruby Murray before and after the show! If I’m brave enough, I might try the ‘Curry From Hell.’
The J45s hit the stage at 9 PM

Friday’s gig at The Pear Tree in Purley was a proper buzz despite an all-male crowd; the Thin Lizzy and Iggy Pop tracks went down a storm. A charming South African chap even insisted on buying Pete and me a large beer, so two hefty quart glasses of Spanish lager duly appeared at our table.

Getting home, however, was a nightmare with part of the M25 closed.

Sunday brought a change of pace, an excellent afternoon, and a packed house at The Foresters in Bagshot. We were joined by special guest and old friend Chris on vocals, and he was in cracking form. If you ever find yourself there, the chunky chips come highly recommended, more like proper wooden planks than anything else!

This Friday, we’re visiting a new venue, The Pear Tree in Purley, then making a welcome return to our regular spot, The Foresters in Bagshot, followed by a full day of recording at 101 on Monday.

Eventually arrived just in time at The Hare and Hounds in St Albans with the Cowl Brothers after a momentous return journey from Newcastle, as my train was delayed after hitting an animal on the track, so I was already feeling thoroughly cream crackered.

Gave my refurbished JV Squier Telecaster, which I’ve had for 46 years, an outing while somehow mustering enough energy for three 45-minute sets.

The Cowl Brothers were in fine form, and management seemed pleased with the performance.

Special mention to drummer Simon Woodhall for some fine playing and tasty grooves throughout.

Fell asleep in the taxi on the way home… always the sign of a successful night.

Arrived at Bulstrode to the aromatic smell of Indian food, only to find drummer Johnny had just finished eating korma chicken. His verdict: “That was braw!”
The J45s’ first set was laid-back and mellow; the second set picked up the energy nicely when Lamb Bristow joined Simon on vocals. Lamb did her own renditions of “Big Boss Man” and “Rock Me, Baby.” All good fun!
A young man came up and asked if we did any “Johnny Hendrix.” For a moment, I thought Jimi had a famous cousin or nephew… then the penny dropped.
So we did “Hey Joe” as the encore, complete with the obligatory guitar-behind-the-head solo, and the young man went away happy.
Thanks to Anne for the photos.

The J45s are back at The Bulstrode this Easter Saturday, 4th April, for a  ‘Rock Until You Drop’ celebration gig at this iconic 15th-century pub, right next to Hounslow Central station!
Enjoy top-notch Asian cuisine as band members will tuck into a Ruby Murray before and after the show! If I’m brave enough, I might try the ‘Curry From Hell.’
The J45s hit the stage at 9 PM
Special guests are Simon Cowl, Lamb Bristow, and Pippa, joining us on vocals  for the night

This Saturday, The J45s have the pleasure of embarking on a momentous journey to The Hollybush, which is  a charming music venue tucked away in the middle of nowhere in Headley, Hampshire. Somewhere around fifteen miles from the venue, the Satnav surrenders entirely, as we drift into what can only be described as the twilight zone.

The Hollybush never disappoints: a warm, welcoming crowd and an atmosphere that always makes for a memorable night. But once the last chord has faded and the gear is packed back into the van, reality sets in as we brave the long road back to London.