Penzance

Cornwall is just gorgeous. But we know that, right?

I’ve had a brilliant day today. We were supposed to be up early and off exploring, but I had other ideas (and tingly fingers, which can only mean one thing). Since we’re staying with a Cornish tune wizard I roped Steve into a session around his kitchen table. Actually, I don’t really know who instigated it more, Steve or myself! Cue a good few hours later and I (reluctantly) dragged myself away to head to Penzance. I have a new obsession with finding as many Cornish and Manx tunes as possible. So far so good!

It’s 1:30am and we're currently driving through the mist back to Carmen & Steve’s place in Liskeard from Penzance. Our gig tonight was at the Studio Bar. We were told quite apologetically by Johnny, our booking agent and music lover extraordinaire, not to expect much. Actually the conversation went a little bit like this:

Johnny: ‘It’s a great pub. Unfortunately it’s a small room, but I’ve been really busy promoting your gig.’

Sarah: ‘Thanks for that Johnny, I’m sure it’ll be fine.’

J: ‘Well there may not be many coming tonight - you could be playing to two or ten.’

S: ‘Ok, we’ll do our best anyway.’

J: ‘Just letting you know it could just be the bar staff tonight. Oh, and the pub’s a bit smelly.’

S: ‘Oh (pause). Ok then.’

What a way to sell up your pub! We had absolutely no idea what to expect. At the very least we were happy that we had one of the best meals of our lives at the Ship Inn in Mousehole (pronounced Mowzel), so the night couldn't be too bad!


Cornish fish pie, prawns, fish & chips, breaded garlic mushrooms, Cornish Rattler cider and Keltic Magick ale. And three chuffers.

However the cider gods were smiling on us because the gig was two hours of joyous insanity. The crowd was rowdy but appreciative and they demanded we play the fastest tunes possible while stomping through the floor next to the bar. Thanks to everyone who came to see us & bought a CD, it was wonderful to see you all!

I would like to dispel any negative rumours regarding the Studio Bar. It’s not a huge place, but the ambiance is well thought out (candles and soft lighting) and both staff and the locals are lovely. The only smell we could identify was a fresh coat of paint, and we definitely played to more than ten people. What a fantastic night.

What’s better - the anticipation of driving to a gig, or the satisfaction of driving home from a gig?

Judging by the exhausted grins on Bridgey & Paul’s faces I’d have to say both :)