Verny Lee, Richard Taylor, 91 Pieces.

Lev 2 Esquires Bedford. 17th August 2008.

With the Sunday sessions season closed for its annual summer holidays, it was the turn of Sundays Not Dead to swing back into action for a most relaxing afternoon alternative acoustic get together. Entry was free, but drinking was obligatory!

First up to the mic are 91 PIECES UNPLUGGED (minus drummer Jack). It's hard to imagine that the brothers Burke are indeed related, yet alone brothers! The younger, James, wears a brightly coloured tracksuit and a garish red cap. As it's summer, he just about gets away with the shorts and his hair colour changes more often than the weather! The elder, known as Burkey, he of the rock'n'rollin long black hair, is attired in a checked shirt and smart waistcoat. Conservative and stylish, except perhaps for the hair!

Their young fans settle down as a stripped to the basics "ASBO" and "Saturday Night" are performed. Danny's Bar is busily filling up nicely as the lads drop in a surprise cover of "Achy Breaky Heart" that seems to find favour with the more mature spectator. Towards the end of the set, while James is singing, Burkey drops to the floor and sits cross legged hippy-style, strumming and seemingly in a global world of his own!

RICHARD TAYLOR breaks from his Dilinquents and Carnal guise to bring us some varied Sunday fare. The covers range from Crowded House to even some Bryan Adams. However, by some degree, the biggest cheers are reserved for his Johnny Cash tribute. Plus as Richard sings later on, "A stands for alcohol. Alcohol is awesome!". A lot of heads singularly nod in agreement.

As I watch the gig unfold, it's nice to reflect that we are blessed here in Bedford with some talented young musicians who also have a real feeling and affinity for Esquires in general. The boys have planned this for a few weeks and the packed room is testament to their efforts.

Last, but not least, is that larger than life character 'VERNY LEE' aka Mr Liam Vernon. The jaunty tales of heinous crimes induce some good natured banter and heckling from a spirited audience. Liam's Irish streak is further ploughed with a couple of Pogues numbers. His finest rendition however, is "England Belongs to Me" which is dedicated to all the people attending last nights punk gig. "Fields of Athenry" appears to be sung not just by Liam, but by everyone present! It seems to typify the enjoyment we have all had during the last couple of hours.