Gig Buddy – Paul
Gig Booty – A pair of used drumsticks (which I later got signed)

The Stables is a lovely small venue and our seats were about four rows from the front so we were assured of a good view. I’ll get the gripe out of the way, I did find the seats a little uncomfortable for my back, but that’s really quite minor in the grand scheme of things.
Support was by a trio of ladies called The Beatrix Players. The line up was vocals, keys and cello. (Okay, second gripe, even if you are praising the support group can you not chat to your mate while they on, especially if it is a quiet set.)

Carl’s shiny stainless steel drum kit dominated the stage, flanked by two gongs. As per usual he was accompanied by Paul Bielatowicz and Simon Fitzpatrick who are just brilliant musicians.
As the last man standing from ELP, Carl paid tribute to his fallen bandmates with both humour and affection. He even encouraged the audience to pull out their phones and film a bit of Pictures at An Exhibition to upload in their memory.

He also paid tribute to Greg and Keith’s pre ELP careers with versions of 21st Century Schizoid Man and America. There were a few mentions of a book which I hope is forthcoming.

The solos from Paul and Simon were mind-blowing and then Carl’s drum solo in Fanfare for The Common Man took things to another level. My gig buddy was suitably impressed.

Personal highlights include Jerusalem and Pictures, but to be frank the whole thing was awesome.

The band did a meet and greet afterwards where you could get your merchandise signed. Carl was out first and I’d been through with my drumsticks and ticket before the others came out so sadly missed out on getting my ticket fully signed.

Edit this setlist | More Carl Palmer’s ELP Legacy setlists