The Quireboys, Cuttin' Out.

Lev 2 Esquires Bedford. 31st December 2008.

New Years Eve for me this year was spent in the company of those irrepressible QUIREBOYS. In the presence of so many like-minded people, the evening proves to be, although long, immensely satisfying. As the buzz of excitement builds, it's the sound of the band's new single that fills the room. Guitarist Paul Guerin is a proud football fan and his team is Blyth Spartans who, thanks to a wonder strike by Jed Dalton, beat Bournemouth and they are now in the 3rd round of the FA cup to play Blackburn Rovers. To commemorate this, and also to mark the 20th anniversary of their famous 1978 cup side, The Quireboys have recorded a single called 'We are the famous Blyth Spartans (And we're going to Wembley)'. All the proceeds of this 79p download are going to the Make A Wish foundation charity. At the song's close, the boys make their way on stage. Spike shouts out the inevitable "We are The Quireboys and this is rock'n'roll!". He also enquires of everyones Christmas activities, telling us in return that keyboardist Keith spent it in Ireland, while guitarist Jimi got engaged in Birmingham. This is the first chance for a merry crowd to raise their glasses in the air.

It's hard to believe that it's 20 years since The Quireboys released their first album. This year has seen them release their current one entitled 'Homewreckers and Heartbreakers'. The appearance of Cuttin' Out's Smoothy with his harmonica is perfect for 'I love this Dirty Town'. At the start, Spike tells us it is about his beloved Newcastle, but adds wryly that it could be about Bedford as he's spent so much time here! The possible stand out track from the album, I know it's my favourite, is 'Mona Lisa Smiled'. It's beautifully performed. The lyrics and sound seem to melt everyone's ears in such an awesome fashion. Contrasting this mellow tune, Spike then shouts out loudly "Bedford, do you want to hear some guitar?". Keith and Spike move aside as the guitarists take over. The mood is pure and simple, this is most definitely rock'n'roll. 'One for the Road' includes this evening a couple of female backing singers. It is also a poignant tribute to Spike's pal Michael who passed away during the year.

With the clock fast approaching midnight, The Quireboys famous anthem 'Hey You' is hastily aborted midway through. The countdown to 2009 is now taking place. With all the musicians who played during the night now on stage, the inevitable 'Auld Langs Syne' is heartily sung. With the new year celebrations in full swing, Spike shouts out "What time is it?". Why, it has to be '7 O'clock'. The harmonica sparring between Spike and Smoothy is the lasting impression of this popular composition. The belated continuation of 'Hey You' completes the set. The cries for an encore are unrelenting and the boys are well up for it. 'Late Nite Saturday Call' is the first of a trilogy of songs that is topped off by 'Sex Party'. Naturally it is the perfect song to end with as tonight has been one hell of a party!

As support, Sunday sessions regulars CUTTIN' OUT play a solid set of covers for near on seventy minutes. The eight piece revel on the big stage, and it's their excellent version of 'Nadine' that really stands out. The result is a simple cheers to a new year and another chance for us to get it right.