News / Blog - Gigs & Bands News

The Pips packed the place!

The crowd at St James was treated to one last performance from The Pips before the band head off to the mainland to try their luck on the bigger scene.

I've enjoyed watching how their performance and style has quickly evolved and I imagine that we will see even greater things from them next time they play locally.

I was amongst a gaggle of photographers capturing this gig and my pics are now online here if you are interested:
CLICK TO VIEW THE PIPS AT ST JAMES

The 2022 edition of the SoPM Summer School Gig was as busy as always.

The stage was set at the Fermain Tavern and ten young bands were lined up to perform in front of family and friends. This is an ambitious challenge for the SoPM tutors but they are now 'old hands' at this!

Their reward comes from seeing the students happy faces and their sense of achievement after performing in a band... often for the first time. The seeds are sown and the future promises lots of live music. Good news!

Ten bands to photograph during the gig has its own challenge for a photographer. I'm very aware that the families and friends don't want me standing in front of their videos and cameras. So my viewpoints are restricted.

Also as there are so many changes of line-ups the stage often has 'unused' mike stands and instruments getting in the shots making it a challenge to get 'clean' images.

Topping off that problem was the bigger one of the lighting. As expected the stage was lit by LED units and (again as expected) they were set to cycle between full green - red - blue solid colour.

There was no additional white fill or back-lighting. Any of you who have worked in this environment will know how hard it is to capture the great results you would like. A lengthy edit correcting colours in Lightroom is inevitable.

But I have to say that all the difficulties are out-weighed by the pleasure of seeing the young performers enjoy their moment on stage. This is one of my favorite gigs.

My pics are now online if you want to take a look:
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE 2022 SoPM SUMMER SCHOOL GIG

Today was a sad occasion. My good mate Andy Coleman was laid to rest after passing away much too young.

Andy was an incredibly talented musician - but far more than that.

He adored his family above all else but he had room in his heart for a huge group of friends too.

Andy affected and charmed all those who got to know him. He was generous and caring by nature and such great fun.

It can be said that some people never fulfill their potential in life. That certainly can't be said of Andy. He faced up to the challenges before him and always maintained his sense of humour.

Now his family have amazing (and happy) memories to help them through these hard times.

I will always remember how much fun Andy was be be with. He always had a story to tell but was also there for anyone who needed a friend.

Rest in peace Andy with Tracey. I hope you can handle arranging the music score for the harps!!

Supported by Guernsey Arts the long established and experienced Elysium played as Pink Floyd to two full houses at Beau Sejour, 27th and 28th May 2022.

The gig was notable for being 'the complete package'. All aspects of a large scale gig were covered with a high quality live performance by Elysium complemented by great sound, lighting and graphics designed by local students.

The result was certainly a memorable highlight of the Guernsey music scene.

This gallery features my pics of the second night....
CLICK TO VIEW ELYSIUM as PINK FLOYD

The Vault in St Peter Port has become the mainstay of live music in town largely due to the tireless support and organization by Mark Guillou.

Mark's involvement in the local scene goes back so far it would be rude to start quoting figures. But I'm going to guess you would need all the digits on one hand to count the decades he has been playing in bands!

Recent years has seen him settle in The Vault organizing Open Mic nights and busy weekends of live music.

I'm aware that I don't give the coverage this live venue deserves. After all, as I've already said, this is where you can be sure to get your gig fix and photographing bands is what I do!

Sadly the popularity of the Vault is what makes it a difficult place to take pics. The area around the stage is very tight to work in. Also the lighting is a real challenge. Of course both those aspects make little impact on the audience as the packed nights prove. It's just us precious photographers who complain!!!

I do however make occasional visits and I've uploaded pics from a few weeks ago when Coastal Fire Dept. and Clameur De Haro made an appearance.

Click on these links to view my pics:
CLICK TO VIEW PICS OF COASTAL FIRE DEPT
CLICK TO VIEW PICS OF CLAMEUR DE HARO

Whilst sorting out a couple of old folders I've found a few pics that never made the edit. They are now safe and as the days get shorter I seem to have found a job to keep me occupied during the long evenings!

How about this new Gallery for starters. It features Third Time Lucky when they played The Fermain Tavern in 2019... Times where a lot different then!

Follow this link to view the pics:
CLICK HERE TO VIEW PICS OF THIRD TIME LUCKY PLAYING AT THE FERMAIN TAVERN

If any events are going to confirm that we are emerging from the Covid 19 restrictions and getting back to 'near normal' the two evenings I have spent in Beau Sejour theatre photographing the School of Popular Music Battle of the Bands are the ones to do it.

For 2021 there was a 'double header' with the addition of an Under 18's battle on the first night followed by the Corporate Bands battle on the next eve. THIS GALLERY FEATURES THE CORPORATE BANDS

As we now expect, the standard of talent in the young bands was very impressive. The tuition, the practicing and the notable live performance experience already amassed by these guys was clearly on show in some amazing performances.

The audience in Beausie was really supportive raising the confidence of the bands resulting in a difficult choice for the four judges. Ultimately is was Sonic Bomb who took the trophy home.

Take a look through the galleries featuring each band and some of the atmosphere...
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE 2021 U18 BATTLE OF THE BANDS

Whilst I was enjoying the party atmosphere in the Vraiceaters Arms at the West Show this website smashed through another milestone of picture views recorded.

Once again I have to thank you for the continued interest in my pics. It is rewarding to see how many people visit the picture galleries every day. The running total of views is now more than THIRTY-FIVE MILLION!

I study the analytics and statistics of the viewings to understand what coverage is the most popular but it's fascinating to see that every genre of my work gets it's 'moment' of taking top spot.

It seems that the people who pop along here for a few minutes all have their own different interests.

I'm pleased to say that I continue to enjoy my profession... a LOT! It is a real privilege to photograph so many different events and people and my time spent behind the lens has expanded my knowledge and love for the community we share in Guernsey.

I hope I am able to continue taking pics for many years yet - if only to give me an excuse to buy new kit!

There is another new mirrorless Nikon camera (the Nikon Z9) on the way and I can't wait to see how the technology has continued to improve.

One thing is certain. There will be no shortage of news, events, sports, gigs and occasions for me to feature in my galleries. I hope to see you viewing them again sometime soon.
START EXPLORING THE GALLERIES BY CLICKING HERE

Last night at the West Show the huge Vraiceaters Arms was splitting at the seams as a huge'er (is that even a word!??) crowd overflowed it for the second time as live bands took to the stage.

It was certainly a challenge to capture any pics in a ram-packed crowd but I did get a few :-)

Worse still, it was an even bigger challenge to get to the front of the queue at the bar. Even though it must have been more than 60ft long!!

But looking how the 'party' went I think that many people DID get a drink (several)... their mid-week hangover this morning would have proved that!

I've just added a new Gallery featuring the ever popular Last of the Light Brigade.

The edit of headliners City Limits awaits. This set was even harder to photograph as I experienced maybe the tightest packed crowd ever in front of the stage as the young West Show crowd discovered what live music is all about.

Did they miss their usual distraction of the Fun Fair... judging by appearances, I don't think so!!!
CLICK TO VIEW THE WEST SHOW LIVE MUSIC

They know how to party out in the West at the annual West Show.

The formula they use is tried and tested. Erect a big tent, build a big bar, organize a few bands.... and invite all your friends!

What do you have? A MASSIVE PARTY!!

I've just added pics of the Wednesday night headliners on the Vraiceater's Tavern stage - Stuck to the Ceiling.

I'll be there for the Thursday night when Last of the Light Brigade and City Limits keep the party swinging. Those pics will follow.

See you at the party?
CLICK TO VIEW THE WEST SHOW GALLERY

The School of Popular Music Summer Party is the traditional end to their week long Summer School. Students spend their time learning new music and forming bands and friendships.

The highlight of the week is this Summer Party where parents and friends are invited along to enjoy the practiced performances of the students.

There is only one thing left to do at the end of this busy night... get to bed to be fresh and eager for the next morning when everyone heads off to Herm for more fun and music!

How I envy the energy and enthusiasm of youth!!

I've added a new Gallery of pics here:
CLICK TO VIEW PICS OF THE SoPM 2021 SUMMER PARTY

The School of Popular Music Summer Concert offers a chance to the younger students to showcase their new skills in front of family and friends. The 2021 event was held in a packed Vale Church Hall.

The nerves and apprehension soon faded as the buzz of performing on stage took over and the evening was full of smiles and anticipation of the next time they can take a place in the spotlight.... these are the future stars of 'showbiz'!

Special credit must always go to the hard working tutors who organize the SoPM events. They never take the easy option but pack as much as they can into each evening. They are so keen to do the best for the young artists.

I love the fact that the SoPM's legacy has yet to 'ripen' at some time in the future as these young students go on to include music in their lives.

The whole world would be a sadder place without MUSIC... I'm sure you agree!

I've added a new Gallery showcasing the SoPM 2021 Summer Concert here:
CLICK HERE TO VIEW THE SoPM SUMMER CONCERT GALLERY

Well that was a busy night at The Doghouse.

I'm sure that it would be impossible to pack more into one evening than the tutors of the School of Popular Music managed to squeeze into Thursday evening at their Summer Showcase!

There was literally no time to breath between the twelve bands.... yes I did say TWELVE!

So I was kept on my toes trying to make sure I got at least a couple of good pics of every musician and singer. This was not as easy as you might think as the quite small stage was usually packed so the poor drummer (as usual) sometimes gets less attention, sorry. Microphones and music stands add to the obstructions.

There was also an enthusiastic crowd of supporters up close to the stage and proud family trying to video. I did my best not to get in the way but I fear my bald patch will feature a little too often, again sorry!

But ultimately we all had a great time.

I've now completed my comprehensive edit and it is online for you to view here:
CLICK TO VIEW PICS OF THE 2021 SoPM SUMMER SHOWCASE

Well I'm pleased to say that my edit of the Chaos 16 pics is as tidy as the Greenman Chaos crew leave the fields they use on the cliff top at Pleinmont!

I've now added the final couple of Galleries featuring some of the atmosphere together with a competitions gallery with Burnout, chilli eating and lifting pics.

The 2021 Chaos 16 was another one to add to the legendary - you really should have been there list.

So make sure you add it to your 2022 diary as soon as the dates are announced.

In the meantime enjoy my pics (they're nice and tidy) by following this link:
CLICK HERE TO VIEW ALL THE CHAOS 16 PICTURE GALLERIES

After the Covid inflicted cancellation of the 2020 edition of the Greenman organized Chaos Festival the bikes, beers and live music were back on their traditional cliff-top site for 2021.... and back with a vengeance!!

The lineup was restricted to local talent and none the worse for that.

Once again Chaos took its place as a summer highlight in the Guernsey 'to-do' calendar. I've started uploading my pics of the festival and hopefully they will show just how much was packed into the two days!

The atmosphere was fantastic and as always it was a safe and happy place to take a family and socialize. There was no trouble and the Greenman pride themselves in leaving the stunning cliff-top setting and surrounding area in a cleaner state than when they arrived.

My grateful thanks go to all those who put in many, many days of time to bring such a great experience to our shores. Over the years hundreds of young people must have enjoyed their first Festival experience at a Chaos festival... what a great start for them.

So take a look at how the gallery is progressing. I still have a lot of pics to add but this is how it looks so far......
CLICK TO VIEW THE CHAOS 16 GALLERY AS IT PROGRESSES

Well it's safe to say that Guernsey is buzzing again with action and entertainment!

I've had a non-stop weekend but its been fantastic fun in the Sun.

Everything has revolved around taking pics at twelve different events.... so the edit has begun!

Us Guerns have been taking full advantage of our Covid free Island and the variety of entertainments, sports, attractions and scenery available to enjoy in the sun is really something special!

NEVER let it be said that there is NOTHING to do!!

For starters I've added the GVC Frie Baton Long Circuit pics. They can be viewed here:
CLICK TO VIEW PICS OF THE GVC FRIE BATON ROAD RACE

The Guernsey Together Festival owes its existence to the Covid-19 virus.

'Normal' life in 2020 through 2021 was heavily affected and restricted by the outbreak of Covid-19 and as time passed we all yearned for the return to whatever was important to each of us.

For many this meant enjoying live music and the social scene that surrounds it.

So the Guernsey Together Festival was born.

The first Guernsey Together Festival was a sell-out and was blessed with great weather. I was a bit skeptical about how this new festival, which only came about as a 'reaction' to the Covid-19 lock-down, would turn out.

But in the end it was a great success with just a few teething problems. All the line-up was made up of local bands and truly showcased the depth of talent we have here in Guernsey.

But what about 2022? Will there be a need for big name headliners if this festival is to grow and find a permanent place on the calendar?

I've added the first two Galleries featuring the festival atmosphere and the Dance Tent.

Check back later to see the Main Stage bands.
CLICK TO VIEW THE GUERNSEY TOGETHER FESTIVAL GALLERIES

2020 was a year like no other... please don't press replay!

With events of all genres being cancelled around the world there was a period when we feared and expected The Vale Earth Fair would also become a victim of the Covid pandemic.

But Guernsey worked hard to overcome some of the worst effects of the virus and was able to take advantage of our Island situation by closing the borders to all but essential visitors. This enabled us to return to a fairly 'normal' life!

The Vale Earth Collective soon saw a unique opportunity to organize one of the very few Music Festivals to take place in 2020... IN THE WORLD!!!

But this amazing achievement needed some new thinking. Instead of the usual visiting headline acts the 2020 Vale Earth Fair was going to have to look within our Island for all the acts.

Over the years this Festival has grown to offer five different stages - both big and small - so you'd imagine that it was going to be a challenge to find fifty+ acts in the small Island of Guernsey... but no.

Everyone here who enjoys the live music scene during a normal year knows that there is a massive depth of local talent playing week in, week out. So the acts were booked and we were lined up for a very special (Internationally) music festival.

Perhaps the one unanswered question was 'would the locals turn out to support a festival without the visiting headline acts?'

But there was no need for the worry as when the day started in bright sun the punters turned up in huge numbers and they appreciated how lucky they were to be able to enjoy meeting friends, having a drink and listening to the talented lineups on each stage.

In the end the 2020 VEF turned out to be a special vintage. Well done to all those who made it happen. Thank you.

Now you may be wondering why my coverage of the 2020 VEF has only just been added to the galleries? Well, that's a long story so will have to wait for another Blog!

You can view the Gallery by following this link:
CLICK HERE TO VIEW PICS OF THE 2020 VALE EARTH FAIR

Whatever 'your thing' is it is likely that some of your best memories have been made whilst participating in an event, sport or endeavor.

As you will see if you spend a few moments (could easily run to hours!) scanning my picture galleries I have photographed hundreds and hundreds of different occasions.

I'm grateful that I've been able to sell many of my pics featured in the galleries and many sales are of traditional prints... always a good choice, and the bigger the better if you want to enjoy the detail.

But the modern world seems to favour the Digital version of an image. This does make sense of course as you can load the pic onto your phone and you can carry it with you everywhere.

But I want to try and tempt you if you are considering buying a couple of pics. Maybe you should consider selecting a few favorites and let me design a Framed Montage for you.

The end result - after you OK my design - is an impressive image that will hang on the wall to remind you of that 'special moment'. You will see extra detail in your Montage and everyone else can see it too.

If I've tempted you there is an easy process to ordering your very own custom designed Montage.

When you see a pic that you would like in your montage just select it using the option in the Buy Now button below each pic. Make sure that you choose your preferred 'Main' picture first then simply use the 'add to Montage' button to build the Montage.

The most successful and popular designs usually include five or nine pics but I'll try any design you favour. After I make a design you will be emailed a proof for you to OK.

So next time you are thinking about buying a couple of pics remember to consider ordering a Montage. The end result could be much more memorable!

If you need a little inspiration follow this link to see some of my previous Montage designs:
CLICK TO VIEW SOME PREVIOUS MONTAGE DESIGNS

As we keep our fingers crossed that in (maybe) two weeks time life can return to a ‘New Normal’ in Guernsey I can reveal what some of you have been doing during Lockdown v2 together with a special offer on my pictures.

Firstly I’d like to thank those of you who have been visiting my website as it has logged millions of new picture views since January! The running total now exceeds 31 MILLION!

The way I analyze this is to reckon that surfing the web has helped fill a few of your empty hours... it has certainly worked for me! We all know that the novelty of being free of the 9 to 5 job soon wears off!

I also think that some of the visitors have wanted to reminisce about the good times... when life went along unrestricted. A stroll through my picture galleries reveals so many of your enjoyable moments playing Sports and attending Gigs and social events that maybe the pics have helped ease some of your Lockdown frustrations?

So as a thank you for the massive interest in my work I’ve decided to (prematurely) celebrate the better times ahead by offering new discounts on the sales of multiple items from my galleries... Anything from 10% to 25% OFF!

The offer is for Framed Prints, Bevel Mounted Prints, Standard Prints and Digital Files. If you place any order online the discount is automatically deducted as you complete the sale in the Shopping Cart.

So THANKS AGAIN for the continued interest in my work. I'll see you again as soon as we are released!