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Well it finally came round - the Kinks Fanklub celebrating 50 years of The Kinks! Quite unbelievable for the old-timers who were there when it started: half a century rushing scarily by in a wink of the proverbial eye.
The venue was (as it has been for the last few years) at The Boston Arms at London's Tufnell Park. Because of the amount of ex Kinks that take part there is no longer a supporting act: the Kast Offs support themselves!. The place was packed to the gills, there was hardly room to move around and it got exceedingly hot down at the front of the stage.
All present and correct were: Mick Avory, Bob Henrit, John Gosling, Ian Gibbons, John Dalton, Jim Rodford, Dave Clarke, Debi Doss, Shirlie Roden and (for a tantalisingly short while, Ray himself). Disappointingly Mark Haley had car problems enroute to the gig and got there too late to play, but managed to breeze into say a few hellos before the gig finished. Also Dave had invited a trio of Swedish girl singers to do some back up vocals.
There was great excitement (as always) when word got round that Ray was nearing the building, entering the building, and finally in the building.. He spent a good deal of the time in the artistes' dressing room, and then standing in the wings enjoying the music. He popped up on stage for a minute or two to say a few words to the assembled throng and looked very chuffed to be there. He said he was a fan of the band, and complemented the cheering fans on their singing prowess, adding that we were all part of The Kinks family. Then he beat a retreat to the side of the stage to enjoy the afternoon from a semi-hidden vantage point. However he was persuaded at the end to give us a rendering of YRGM, which he seemed to enjoy doing.. I don't believe he realises how much we'd love to hear him sing and play a whole lot more, but then maybe he thinks he would be butting in on a KOKs gig.
It's just amazing to see how long the band are happy to play for. And they are as happy to play as we are happy to listen to them. Dave Clarke in particular must get our eternal thanks, for without him, there would be no Kast Off Kinks. While the others take turns on drums, keyboards and bass, Dave is the one band member who is always there.
Another great afternoon, spent with wonderful music and good friends.
Next year the Fan Klub is moving upstairs with better facilities. Bring it on!
- Olga Ruocco
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