Lights Going Out were formed as part of the initiative called Weekend Warriors under the benevolent eye of Colin and Andy from Guitar-Base, a music shop in West Bridgford, Nottingham. This initiative aims to get old fogies to gather together to play music just like they used to in their youth - or wished they had done.
At a meeting in the Test Match pub in West Bridgford, about 20 old blokes met up and discovered that about 15 played guitar, 4 played bass, and 1 played the drums. And some others played exotic instruments like saxophone as well. From this not absolutely encouraging beginning, Colin and Andy drew up four bands largely based on a lead guitar + 2 rhythm guitars + bass + drums line up. But in the first week we lost our lead guitarist (who was also a bass player, for good measure) so became a four-piece.
Under the Weekend Warrior arrangements, we were due to have six two-hour rehearsals, but we fitted in a couple of extra ones on the way to the final gig at the Nottingham Boat Club on Friday 19 May 2006. This was a great evening, which seemed to be enjoyed by the audience as well as the bands!
While preparing for our second gig, also at the Nottingham Boat Club under the Weekend Warriors banner, we became a five-piece, adding keyboards to the lineup to give ourselves an extra dimension.
These are still early days. But we’re having fun. The lights may be going out, but it’s not dark yet.
Peter Ball: Guitar, Harmonica, Vocals
From Keyworth, a manager in an innovation company
Neil Horsley: Guitar
From Keyworth, Chief Executive of a Nottingham charity
Ken Bain: Bass, Vocals
From Tollerton, an IT Consultant for a large business software company
Graham Buckberry: Keyboards
From West Bridgford, a software development manager
Colin Hyland: Drums
From Edwalton, owner of Guitar-Base
31 March 2007 - Nottingham Boat Club
Another Weekend Warriors gig, with an extended set.
21 October 2006 - The Rose of England
Enjoyable evening as part of a three band programme. Getting better.
23 September 2006 - Nottingham Boat Club
A successful evening of entertainment by the Weekend Warriors, Mark I. Look out for Mark II in November.
19 May 2006 - Nottingham Boat Club
Inaugural gig, opening the Guitar Base Weekend Warriors Free Tour. Magic.