We've seen Tom Robinson several times now, in The Angel, and he and his collaborators have never failed to wow us with their style, their professionalism, their obvious enjoyment and their skill.
The set list was very much in Tom's accustomed range: Van Morrison, Tom Waits, jazz standards and even some Bob Dylan. But the sharp-eyed among you will notice a new face playing a pretty blue guitar. Tom (for that is also his name) plays a mean electric thang, but has a terrific variety of styles of which he is the master, so that a delicate folk-ish strum can dissolve into a full-on Hendrix thrash in the bending of a string. Brilliant.
Dave, on saxophone, we have heard before, but he deserves as much credit. His control of the instrument is total, and he, too, can shape its mood to the demands of each number.
Tom Robinson? If you haven't caught his act yet, get out there.
And so to the audience ...
Both Roberts (Plumb and Sippett) were there. I'm including this shot, even though Sippo is clearly drinking l*g*r, to remind myself that I must introduce you more directly to Vicky. Apparently there are tales of a holiday in Spain that just have to be told.
In the background, you may just be able to make out Doods and Sid Watkinson
The pub was full of regulars, including Mark and Maggie, and Pauline and Patrick (many thanks for the crash pad, both).
You can also see how full the place was, and even the back of that Nice Mr Orton's head (in front of Maggie).Immediately behind Pauline, side on, you can catch a glimpse of the Swindon Smiler, Mr K. L'Estrange, landlord extraordinaire.
What you can't see is Paul Jacques. Rumour has it that photos of him simply don't get through the processor.
Peter and Marilyn Thorogood came along, and thoroughly enjoyed themselves - I can't let this occasion pass without paying tribute again to the way Peter, Mel and their gang have saved pubs like the Angel from almost certain oblivion.
TA and Jonathan were there too, looking well, although TA is beginning to take matters a bit more easily, with the forthcoming birth due in December, and the move into the new house any day now.
But can you see the blue shirt in the background of these two shots? Who might that belong to? Can you see his face?
The Townsends and Jos and Gill were there, along with assorted Plumbs, too.
And so was Paul Jacques.
Look again at Bill I-S's pint of Guiness. Some say that that is a face in the background. I think it's a trick of the light and smoke, but who am I to argue?
Let's look at the evidence again:
Decide for yourself.
Meanwhile:
