A week of sold-out shows gave the venue a proper send off. I had a busy week, so sadly, I only made it to a couple of them. Fence Collective did a great showcase to kick the week off. Blondie and I had a lovely evening. Particularly enjoyed King Creosote and Pictish Trail on stage at the same time. Superb.
Met up with Kieran and Lou W for a Dry The River matinee on the Sunday. It was a fundraiser for the Teenage Cancer Trust, and a ridiculous bargain at two quid, all of which going to the charity (good old Lumi – kindness itself, even in the death throes). This was, however, a bit of a mistake. None of us had much energy, and although they were very good, even an energetic performance by DTR couldn’t raise our spirits. I had a brief conversation with Mr Inglis and it seemed the Sunday blues had reached him too. And then we ate a weird 1970s meal in a little restaurant on Kilburn High Street, which I won’t name, because I’m not AA Gill.
The Luminaire’s funeral night was a different kettle of dead fish. It was a bit of a riot. Although there were some sad and rather poignant moments (a funny but touching eulogy given by Son Of Dave, hearing Andy Inglis speak about the venue he loved), and some bizarre moments (there was a coffin – an actual coffin…with pall bearers), it was a sterling night. Great music (I fell a wee bit in love with John & Jehn), top DJing, some very expressive dancing, and one truly Formula 1-esque moment, as Mr Inglis hopped athletically onto his bar and sprayed the assembled crowd with fizz (oh, they were begging for it), whilst toasting his venue partner-in-crime John Donnelly. It was the most rock ‘n’ roll wake I’ve ever had the honour of attending.
RIP, you lovely old girl.
