Lost For Words, Cutting Out, The Workshop Boys and Thunderbird 5. (Nigel Grodde's 60th Birthday Party).

Lev 2 Esquires Bedford. 13th February 2010.

Anyone who has ever walked, staggered, stepped or even fallen into Esquires, principally on a Sunday afternoon, will have seen, noticed or spoken to Mr Nigel Grodde. A constant supporter of the gig nights on level 2 or fitting snugly into the Sunday sessions crowd, Nigel is the same old cheery cheeky faced gentleman. It's people like this that set Bedford Esquires apart from any other pub/club in this market town of ours. Tonight is his special night as he is celebrating his 60th burthday. Bedford's musical community has turned out in force for this endearing supporter of the local scene.

With DJ Pete providing the early sounds, the evening builds slowly. Tables and chairs are only allowed on special occasions and this is certainly one of them. Food is provided by Bobby who has cooked a special birthday curry. As Pete gives way to the live bands on show, it's now that the surprises will really begin! Providing the live show are a veritable who's who of the Sunday sessions bands who give us regular entertainment during the winter months. It's a pick 'n' mix, best of collective of LOST FOR WORDS, CUTTING OUT, THE WORKSHOP BOYS and THUNDERBIRD 5. The list is endless. The ultimate jam session is underway.

Tonight however, and I don't say this very often, the live music is secondary to making sure that good old Nige has a hell of a night to remember. As he meets and greets, it's staggering to see the faces coming through the doors. As I write this review the following afternoon watching a band, Amy And The Integrals and 2 Non Blondes, I quiz Nigel as to how he felt the evening went. Emotionally, he wanted to thank everyone who worked so hard to make it a great night, especially Philppa on the sound and Woody and Vinny for organising the bands.
Above all, to everyone who was present (over 170) and managed to raise over £400 for charity. Nigel revealed that this donation would be split between charities for breast cancer and premature babies.