September 2021 Hertfordshire Gig Guide

Well I did manage to get out to some gigs in August. But none in Hertfordshire. Numbers are still high and with schools and universities returning, the numbers will likely get worse. So I’m going to take it easy and try and limit myself initially to one midweek gig. Which is annoying, it is a really strong month, especially at the Horn and normally I would go to half a dozen of these gigs (clash permitting). I suspect one or two of these gigs might tempt me out. It’s also worth checking out the Civic arenas. There a lot of decent comedy on too.

1st September – Iain Hornal, The Horn

Usually seen as a touring musician in 10cc and Jeff Lynne’s ELO, he also has written his own music. I gave him a quick listen. Sounds pleasant, in a Radio 2 kinds of way.

2nd September – George O’Hanlon, The Horn

Young 21 year old singer songwriter. Mainly acoustic with session musicians adding extra layers in the studio. Sounds pleasant with a nice voice. but I couldn’t find any live videos. So not sure if he tours with a band for the bigger sound of his EP or it’s just him with a guitar.

5th September – Slamdunk, Hatfield Park

Slam Dunk has been taking place in Hatfield for about a decade. I haven’t actually been to one even though it used to take place at my workplace. When it first started, it seemed to be full of skater rock/punk type bands which I’ve never really got on with. This year’s festival features artists like Frank Turner, Don Bronco, Skindred and While She Sleeps and a whole host of bands I don’t listen to. If that’s your sort of music, this is you type of music festival. But then you already know that which is why it’s been so successful for all these years.

9th September – Lady Bird, The Horn

Almost certainly my first return to The Horn. Lady Bird are signed to The Slaves own record label and there’s a lot of similarities to their sound and attitude. I’ve seen them twice. Both times they were really good fun.

14th September – Robyn Hitchcock, The Horn

He’s been around for donkey’s years. I’m sure he has an audience.Apparently, ‘Hitchcock is among alternative rock’s father figures and is the closest thing the genre has to a Bob Dylan’. Okay.

15th September – Bull, The Horn

I’ve heard good things about Bull. They have that laid back West Coast slacker indie sound of the 90s. Effortlessly catchy. Hoping to catch this one.

17th September

The Primitives, The Horn

Formed in the 1980s and known for one of the most catchy pop indie songs around, Crash. It’s been used in adverts and feature films and covered by other artists and was a staple of indie discos throughout the late 80s and early 90s. This is a chance to hear the original band play it. I have to admit, their music wasn’t my type of music in the 80s. So I don’t know any of their other stuff. But probably worth going just to hear ‘Crash’ – just like everyone else in the audience!

Little Comets, Club 85

Little Comets have been quiet for a while, but they’re back playing one of the National Lottery Revive tour sessions at Club 85. Buy one ticket and a second person can attend as long as they buy a lottery ticket. I’ve seen them once at SXSW in 2011. But I have to admit, I don’t remember the performance. But they were on my ‘good list’ – bands I enjoyed at the time.

22nd September – Salvation Jayne, The Horn

I saw this band support the Subways at my last gig before lockdown. I thought they were very good with a strong front person. They have that fuzzy guitar sound of Queens of the Stone Age.

23rd September – Black Foxxes, The Horn

Sound interesting with a heavy grungy sound. They’re touring to support their new album released mid September. I’m going to have to give them a longer listen. I’m liking what I’m hearing.

24th – 26th September – Wilkestock

Charity music festival that’s been having licensing issues. However, it appears it’s now going ahead. Sadly for me. It’s lineup appears to be DJ heavy with no recognised bands, only a few local bands. I think I will give it a miss this year. Too expensive for me without any major draw

24th September – Brand New Heavies, Eric Morecambe Centre

Rescheduled from last year and now taking place at a new venue in Harpenden.

25th September – Jazz Up presents Tomorrows Warriors, Club 85

I was privileged to see Tomorrow Warriors bring some of their talented youngsters to Daylight Music a while back. They’re a charity that does great work developing young new jazz artists and have an incredible eye for talent. This is sure to be a fantastic evening.

29th September – Joe and the Shit Boys, The Horn

‘Queer Vegan Shitpunk band from the Faroe Islands’. I can’t say they sound brilliant on first listen. But they do seem to put on a good show and have something to say. Could be fun

29th September – 3rd October – Hatfield House Chamber Music Festical

Five day celebration of classical music in the impressive Hatfield House. Programme looks interesting with everything from Brahms to Shostakovich, organ recitals, talks and workshops.

30th September – The Wedding Present, Club 85

I wasn’t a Wedding Present fan in the 80s and 90s. In fact, I still am not. But no 90s indie kid really disliked them. With jangly guitars they had some really catchy, danceable songs. Let’s face it, we’ve all danced to ‘Kennedy’ many times. I’ve seen them a few times since and enjoyed them, but at £25, it’s on the wrong side of expensive for me. £20 is the limit for bands who I don’t listen to regularly.