Bank Holiday Sunday saw me travel to Middlesbrough to honour the last of the bookings I had confirmed from last year.
Myself and Timmy were appearing as 2nd headliners after the Shapeshifters in the 2nd of 3 tents, with a host of other DJs in the others areas and after parties, most of whom I’d never heard of.
I won’t lie, I really had no desire to play this gig. I’ve already outlined at length the reason why I have taken myself out of the guest DJ circuit so if you’re unaware of that, maybe read back through a couple of my previous posts. This was a booking I had accepted way back in the latter part of 2013. Seeing as it was a ‘classics house’ set I knew we could do it with our eyes closed… seems like I did !
The only reason I accepted the gig and was attending was because I have a couple of good friends up in Middlesbrough I was looking forward to seeing as well as having time with Timmy who is currently spending most of the year in Vietnam being big time.
I got to my hotel around 4pm, had a spot of food whilst watching Arsenal play, then headed out for some pre-gig beers with a few of the lads before meeting with John Jones and heading to the event.
3 marquees in the heart of Middlesbrough were all grooving by the time we got there. That’s really all I can tell you about the gig.
5 bottles of beer, numerous shots of Hierbas (if you don’t know, don’t get to know !!), one menthol ciggie and the next thing I know it was 5am and I’m in the hotel room. I’ve never had such a black hole before in my memory, and I’ve had a fair few heavy nights along the way !
By all accounts we rocked it all the way through our 7.20 – 8.40pm set and had the place jumping, not long after finishing the set I picked up my bag, took 1 step forward, 3 to the left, 1 step forward, 3 to the right and stumbled my way out of the tent never to be seen again. How adult of me !
The last time that happened was in Southport when I was with Grant, I’ve not drank vodka since. I definitely have learnt another lesson and don’t think I’ll be getting in that state ever again. Famous last words ?
Anyway, back home safe and sound now and a very tough visit to the gym this morning has started my shortened week off in the right way as I now prepare for the VB show this Thursday and my trip to Birmingham next Bank Holiday weekend… details to follow.
Andy Ward presents Early Morning Mellow. Daily from 6am on Vocal Booth Radio
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