Babyshambles

It was December the 18th, Saturday night, a week before Xmas, and joyous harmony filled the air. We had gathered for what was billed as the Babyshambles Xmas extravaganza. Even G.A.Y had been moved so as to allow the revellers a three o'clock extension to the night. Support bands came and went and in true reviewers tradition we arrived suitably late to miss most of them and those we were in attendance to see we paid little or no attention. We were here for the main event, rock and roll's brightest burning star, Pete Doherty. Each and everyone of us knew that with his haphazard lifestyle just buying a ticket for the show was no guarantee of actually seeing him.

So midnight (Babyshambles start time) came and went, beers were sunk and the natives grew restless. Classic rock and roll greats filled the airwaves but as the time wore on it became clear that we were more likely to see Father Xmas step out onto the stage than Pete Doherty. People looked around waiting for something to happen.

When the curtain dropped at 2:30 and it was announced the gig was cancelled one reveller jumped over the security barrier grabbed the mic and started shouting ‘Wankers!'. This was the catalyst that led to a well-mannered stage invasion with people helping each other in true Xmas spirit whilst destroying all the equipment. It's not only artists that are allowed freedom of expression but gig goers too.

With hindsight would I still have gone? Oh yes, rock and roll is alive and well and for once it came from an over zealous audience making a clear statement. What was it? I have absolutely no idea. A great night though!