THE  ACME  BAND at The HEART OF ENGLAND BLUEGRASS VENUE 19 DECEMBER 2003

 Well, it was Christmas, a record 39 raffle prizes plus a carrot for Rudolph, the room was packed and Joan was rushing about finding extra tables and chairs, and there was the prospect of food in the interval!  The atmosphere was great. 

 However, had it been just another Friday it would have made no difference.  The Acme Band are special and the Kenilworth crowd know it and turn up in great numbers to appreciate them.  The band have known each other for years and share their camaraderie and teasing with the audience. The standard of playing from the musicians is awesome: 

Brian Curtis’s superb guitar playing, sublime tenor voice and cracking sense of humour, Bob Armstrong’s lovely dobro playing and incredible grumbling (even managed to get one in about his lack of fuel allowance), John Allen’s solid bass and serene presence, and the amazing banjo dexterity of Bill Forster.  Joy of joys Ron was back with his mandolin – perfect! 

 What I love best about the band is their a’capella singing and there were plenty of lovely gospel songs to enjoy.  However the music was great too.  I particularly remember Ron and Bill playing mandolin and