Folk I haven't seen for nearly two decades came from far and wide, and - aided by strategically-placed signs along the route - gathered at The Falcon in Godreaman for their 20th anniversary gig. Even people who didn't see The Sprouts the first time round, and who came along purely on the strength of their legendary reputation, packed into the big room, wondering what on earth to expect. Mysterious men in shades and commemorative T-shirts prowled the stage, tuning guitars and checking mics. People milled around outside enjoying the cool evening breeze, while cars and taxis kept turning up to bring even more punters to their goal. Inside, Elwyn the landlord and the trusty Clive (formerly of the Railway Club, the Carpenters, the Rock etc) struggled to keep up with the queues at the bar.
Sadly, the rumours of a Farenheit 451 support slot failed to bear fruit. Then again, it may be that a support band would have spoilt the atmosphere.
Tim,Deke, Pete, Wah-Wah Wayne and Tex Treasure took the stage to thunderous applause and kicked straight into Romaine - suddenly the years fell away and we were all 19 again.
All the old favourites were there - Shakin' All Over, Tequila, Wipe Out, Lady Eleanor - and the boys threw in a few newer ones like Lenny Kravitz's Are You Gonna Go My Way (with guest Martin Jones.) One of my friends, who was new to The Sprout phenomenon, commented on how musically tight the band were. Anyone would swear they'd been rehearsing. Guests came and went,
Rob Challis of Tantrwm productions videoed the whole thing. Geraint Benney drew the raffle - the prize was a beautiful Fender acoustic guitar, donated by gig sponsors Brecon Guitars.
