The Alter Eagles Blog

Back at the Spring Arts Centre

2012-01-15T00:44:00.000-08:00

A belated happy new year to all. After a bit of a hiatus, we're working hard on adding new gigs for this year and we'll have news on that soon. Meantime, we're very pleased to be back at the Spring Arts & Heritage Centre in Havant. None of the band have long memories (!) but we reckon this is the fifth or even sixth time we've played there and every time it's been a hoot. Maybe it's the closeness of the audience, the friendliness of the staff - or the fact that we're on a flat stage and you lot are raked up above us - but there's something about the Spring that brings out the best in the band.

We'll be - ahem - springing a few surprises, including a distinctively Alter Eagles-take on the first few songs of the second half, but you can still rely on us to deliver your favourite Eagles tracks with accuracy, passion and humour. Hope to see you there.

The Alter Eagles play the Spring Arts & Heritage Centre on February 10th.
Show starts at 8.00pm.
Box Office: 023 9247 2700

Take it easy

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

New gigs for 2012

2011-11-18T05:36:00.001-08:00

We're putting together our gig list for 2012 and have got off to a great start with a couple of our favourite venues confirmed. First, we'll be back at the Spring Arts & Heritage Centre on February the 10th and then on April the 14th, we'll be rolling out the new show at the Ropetackle Arts Centre in Shoreham by Sea. It's been a busy time for the boys, lots of changes, but lots of new ideas too and we look forward to bringing you the very best in Eagles tribute shows next year.

So don't forget, if you'd like to see us in your town and you know a suitable venue, get in touch via the Bookings page at www.altereagles.co.uk and we'll see what we can do.

And in the meantime of course,

Take it easy,

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

P.S. We've changed the Ropetackle date from the 28th of April to the 14th, just in case you'd put it in the diary. See you there!

Solo at last!

2011-10-11T02:26:00.000-07:00

Well not quite. With the Eagles busier than ever, it looks like we'll have to wait for the new Joe Walsh solo album until the tail end of next year! Still at least we now know that it's called Analog Man and that in typical JW style it's actually his first digital album.

According to Joe: "“This is my first real experience doing my music digitally. In the old days, there was more of a tendency to set up the band, mic everything, record the whole band together and when you got a good take, that was it. You couldn’t go in and make everything perfect. Nowadays, music is constructed. Musicians come in and play their part, and you put them on one at a time.”

Go figure.

You can read more from Joe on the album by following the link to the Classic Rock web site.

Colin Clocks Off

2011-09-26T08:17:00.000-07:00

After seven years service with The Alter Eagles, we have to announce that Colin Moore has decided to leave the band to pursue alternative musical avenues.

As one of the – almost - founder members of the band, his contribution over our seven years together has, naturally been immense – helping to provide the foundation of the Eagles’ country sound with guitar, pedal steel and banjo as well as contributing to those unmistakable vocal harmonies.

We would like to thank Colin for his hard work over the years and of course wish him every success in his future projects.

Thanks, Colin and Take It Easy.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

New gigs at Worthing Pavilion and the Capitol, Horsham

2011-08-05T10:19:00.000-07:00

Summer break is over and we're gearing up for two gigs in Sussex - the Pavilion in Worthing and the Capitol in Horsham.

Both gigs will be full theatre shows, featuring the boys, re-invigorated by their summer break and will include all the Eagles' greatest hits, some key solo numbers and a selection of songs from the last studio album - Long Road Out Of Eden (can't really call it 'new' any more, can we?). Here are the details:

Saturday, August 20th
Pavilion Theatre, Worthing, show starts at 7.45pm
Box Office: 01903 206 206
Worthing Theatres website

Saturday, September 3rd
The Capitol, Horsham, show starts at 8.00pm
Box Office: 01403 750220
The Capitol website

Hope to see you at a gig soon.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

Pitch perfect vocal harmonies

2011-06-17T12:32:00.000-07:00

...that's what the press are saying about the Alter Eagles recent gig at the Komedia in Brighton. Here's the full text.

"We try to keep it as real as possible; we were all backstage earlier
threatening to sue each other..."

Sonically there wasn't much to quibble about with the Alter Eagles. Pitch-perfect vocal harmonies, scorching guitar solos and rock-solid rhythms all added to a sound which convincingly recreated the
litigious country-rockers.

Aesthetically, think billowy shirts, waistcoats and stonewash jeans. That was always going to be the easy part. There was no denying the melodic strength of many of the ballads, but an insistence on playing many of them in succession often slowed the set down.

Still, it was difficult to argue with the ever-beautiful Desperado and melancholic New Kid In Town; all delivered with Don Henley's hard-won wisdom by vocalizst Sam Confrey.

When they dipped into the coarse rock and roll of the group's hedonistic years, the very foundations of the venue shifted. Get Over It, Life In The Fast Lane and Heartache Tonight showed there was more to the back catalogue than breezy West Coast pleasantries. The lead guitar work of Jay Stezaker often catapulted the songs into another stratosphere, guiding those in the crowd back to headier times."

'Nuff said.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

We've been in the recording studio

2011-06-07T11:15:00.000-07:00

and about time too. The long-awaited Alter Eagles CD is creeping slowly towards a release date and promises to include some of our favourite versions of our favourite Eagles classics. One extra treat fell into the band's lap when we discovered a spare white baby grand at the studio - Sam and Al had some time on their hands and the next thing we knew, there was a brand new acoustic live version of Desperado. We're not going to spill the beans about the rest of the CD but we will keep you posted.

Meantime, don't forget the Komedia in Brighton this Friday night. We're kicking off at 8.00pm, there are some tickets left and it's going to a great show. After all, it's on our home turf.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No FIner Tribute

A singer, a keyboard player

2011-05-31T03:29:00.000-07:00

and a bassist walked into a bar. And here's what happened next. Pre-gig at the Tropic in Ruislip, Sam, Al and Rob settle down for some quality discussions about the set list, what new songs to work on, stage gear...the usual. Of course it quickly degenerates into the kind of mummery we'd expect from musicians of this calibre - described lest we forget by the Lemonrock Gig Guide as "world class" - and this is what you get. Three wise monkeys. Hmmm. Sounds like a good name for a band...

More seriously, there are still tickets on sale for two upcoming gigs - at the Komedia in Brighton on June 10th and the Standard Music Venue in London, E17 on June 11th. Details as always are on the Alter Eagles web site.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

Hailsham Gig Cancelled

2011-05-22T11:06:00.000-07:00

...due to circumstances beyond our control. We've only just found out about this and hope you hadn't included it in any big plans. It's a private members club so hopefully the short notice won't affect too many people. We hope to re-visit the venue in 2012 and will keep you posted.

Meantime, keep an eye on the blog for some big news about...well, that would be spoiling things wouldn't it?

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

New gigs up north and down south

2011-03-08T13:16:00.000-08:00

in May and June. We'll be up in Loughborough on May 28th at Lynroys - first time for us and we're looking forward to it. We had a great time just up the road at the Rolls Royce Club in Derby last weekend so we're hoping for more of the same in Loughborough. Then, on June 11th we're back at the Standard Music Venue in London's east end. This was a cracking gig last time round and we hope to see some of the same faces (and their friends!) this time around.

There's plenty more in the pipeline including some exciting news about Alter Eagles' merchandise. Watch this space...

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

See you tonight

2011-02-19T05:13:00.000-08:00

...at the Standard Music Venue in Walthamstow, East London. First time there and with your help, it won't be the last. Spend Saturday night with us and the Eagles' greatest hits - Fast Lane, Long Run, New Kid, Lyin' Eyes, One Of These Nights, Hotel and many more. Only £9.00 on the door and we'll be kicking things off around 9.45pm and playing till late.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

Complete Gig Guide

2011-02-14T08:45:00.000-08:00

...is now available on Facebook and MySpace for all the bookings we've got so far this year, so do check them out. Alternatively, you can also go to the web site for up to date news of the band and where we're playing. We got the year off to a fantastic start at the Spring Arts and Heritage Centre earlier this month. A full house - we actually had to move the boys back from the front of the stage to make room for extra seats - and even then you could hear the front row's teeth rattling!

Next up, The Standard Music Venue in London on the 19th of February and then up north (well, for those of us who are strangers to life north of the Watford Gap) to the Rolls Royce Club in Derby on March the 5th. If you're near either, be sure to come along and see us. It's never the same without you.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

A few tickets left

2011-01-26T01:39:00.000-08:00

...for our gig at the Spring Arts & Heritage Centre on the 4th of February. At the last count there were about 20 seats left at this cracking little theatre venue. It'll be your first chance to meet Matt Hobson, our new sticksman and it's the first time that Sam Confrey's sung there in ages.

We'll be playing the full theatre set with tracks going back to the On The Border album, right up to Long Road Out Of Eden. And yes, we'll be playing the title track. It's the start of a new year, and we're really excited to be back. Come and say hi at the bar before and afterwards!

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

P.S. The venue's running a pre-show Sausage Supper, which looks pretty good to us.

New gig added

2011-01-07T02:36:00.000-08:00

...and it's good to be heading back to the Windmill Theatre in Littlehampton - or to give the venue its full name, the Windmill Entertainment Centre. We've got plenty of happy memories of the Windmill. It's where we did one of our first breakthrough gigs back in the day. The whole band on stools at the beginning of the second half, ready for...can you remember the first song? Because we couldn't. Happy Days.

Anyway, we're back on October 1st and as usual the doors will open at 7.30pm and will hit the stage (hopefully not literally) at about 8.00pm. Full theatre show and tickets are £12.50. We realise it's a long way down the line, but it's always best to be prepared.

By the way, if you check it out on Google Maps, something's got its knickers in a twist and two addresses show up. You want the one on the seafront proper at Harbour Park, not the one up the estuary - which we're sure is very nice, whatever it is. But we're not playing there.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No FIner Tribute

New sticksman in town

2010-12-30T04:34:00.000-08:00

Matt Hobson - yes, he really is that happy to be here

There's a new face (and hopefully a body too) behind the drumkit for 2011. Meet Matt Hobson, who'll be taking over from Alex Eberhard for our upcoming gigs in the new year, starting at The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre in February. Matt's a fantastic drummer and fitness instructor for British Military Fitness, so we're not about to argue with him. But we will say that he blew us away at the audition and we think you'll love him too - especially his dedication to reproducing all the Eagles' greatest hits, beat-for-beat.

We'll be adding some more information about Matt on the web site soon. Meantime, happy new year and we'll see you all soon.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

Who are these handsome lads?

2010-12-13T02:37:00.000-08:00

Ah, the magic of PhotoShop. The wide open spaces of the desert, the glowering sky...all those shades. Blimey heck, it's us! One of our new promo pics as used on the Spring Arts & Heritage Centre to promote our gig there on the 4th of February next year. Watch this space for line-up changes and other important announcements concerning our plans for 2011. Hint: they're going to be big.

Meanwhile, if you need us, we'll be in our trailers.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

Sam Confrey - an apology

2010-12-07T01:45:00.000-08:00

Now he's back we have to make room for him in the van again...

..just kidding. But still, in all the excitement we forgot to tell anyone officially that Sam (who long-time readers will recall, was helping the band out until the end of the year) has agreed to re-join full time. So, we can all look forward to plenty of on-stage shenanigans, strops after another unpredictable performance from Spurs and of course, some great vocals. He came, he sang, he went to Bristol, he came back again. He sang again. And this time, he's staying.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

Gigs a-popping

2010-10-15T03:22:00.000-07:00

New gigs have been added to the web site, a mix of new venues and places we've played before (step forward one of the classiest, The Capitol in Horsham). Check them all out on the site because this is just the start. We've got plenty planned for the new year.

We're also delighted to tell you that Sam Confrey has re-joined the band as a full-time member. Sam had come back to help us out 'till the end of the year, but everyone enjoyed it so much that we invited him to stay on full time. So, with Alex Eberhard firmly esconced behind the kit we now have a full complement, and it feels just fantastic.

We've still got some more gigs before the end of the year and we'd draw your attention to the Boom Boom Club in Sutton on bonfire night (cue 'explosive' jokes). Hope to see you there or at a gig somewhere down the line.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

P.S. Tonight we're at Plastic Red - see web site for details.

Spring Arts & Heritage Centre gig confirmed

2010-09-16T12:22:00.000-07:00

The audience-eye view of the band at the Spring Arts Centre

Yup, we're back at one of our favourite venues in February 2011...the 4th to be exact. We've been playing this venue since it was the Havant Arts Centre and it's always been a great gig. Lovely people - and that's just the band and the staff. Seriously, it's an intimate little theatre (about 100 and something seats) with a nice rake and a flat - rather than raised - stage. That means most of the audience is looking down on us,which is just the way they like it.

So, that's the Spring Arts & Heritage Centre on the 4th of February 2011.

More details on the web site nearer the time.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

A new Alter Eagle

2010-09-06T11:55:00.000-07:00

...has landed. Meet Alex Eberhard, a classically trained percussionist and jazz drummer who played his first gig with the band at the Windmill Theatre last Saturday night. You can find out more about Alex on the Alter Eagles' web site and we're all looking forward to finessing the songs we already know and working up some new (or should that be old) songs too. We're delighted to have Alex on board and we're sure you'll enjoy his contribution too as the band moves forward.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No FIner Tribute

When a man loves his work

2010-08-27T04:51:00.000-07:00

...it's a joyous thing to behold. So tell us, gentle reader, whether you think Sam Confrey's happy to be back singing Eagles' songs with the rest of the band. This candid moment comes to you courtesy of Michelle at Really Big Smile photography. You'll be seeing a lot more of her work on our web site soon.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

Publicity mad

2010-08-23T23:43:00.000-07:00

...the Alter Eagles guitarist extraordinaire Colin Moore gets his ladder out for the lads in his home town of Littlehampton to promote the band's gig there on the 4th of September. Unable to find a handy wall, Colin hung one of the band's promo banners on this fence.

Tickets are still on sale from the Windmill box office - call (01903) 722224 for tickets or visit the Windmill Entertaiment Centre web site.

See you there.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

The Alter Eagles - louder than ever

2010-08-23T10:35:00.000-07:00

...yes even more Eagles for your money, courtesy of our new PA system. The bass bins are on wheels, the tops take two people to lift them, and we're pleased to say the new sound is awesome. We'll be trying the new rig out at a venue near you soon offer many thanks to Mr. Mackie for designing them.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

Chichester & Worthing

2010-08-06T00:56:00.000-07:00

Playing the main stage at the Chichester Jazz and Real Ale Festival

A belated - but nevertheless big - thanks to everyone who turned out to see us at the Chichester Jazz & Real Ale Festival and the Pavilion Theatre in Worthing over the last couple of weeks. On both nights the audience was great and we loved the way you welcomed Sam Confrey back into the band - drummer Chris Nagel was pretty chuffed too.

"We saw you last night at Worthing Pavilion Theatre - thought you were inspired that night, absolutely brilliant show. Sam's singing was wonderful - though actually you were all fantastic. Can't wait to see you all again."

Aw, shucks. We're playing in Middlesex and Essex this weekend (see Gigs) but we'll back after that and laying plans for a big Autumn push. Hope to see you at a gig soon.

THE ALTER EAGLES

No Finer Tribute

Posterous

2010-07-12T03:20:00.000-07:00

So there we are, below Peppa Pig's Party and the Little Big Club but above Boogie Pete's 2010 UK Tour, outside of the Pavilion Theatre Worthing. We'll be there on Friday the 30th of July playing the full theatre set. We've got big plans for the evening including one or two surprises and we hope that you'll come along.

Here are those details again.

Worthing Theatres web site.
Box Office - 01903 206 206

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

Pavilion Theatre, Worthing

2010-07-08T00:32:00.000-07:00

What's got 850 seats and sits at this end of the pier? Yup, it's the Pavilion Theatre in Worthing and the Alter Eagles are back there at the end of this month. Tickets are on sale now from the box office on 01903 206206, or you can visit the Worthing Theatres web site for more information.

We'll be welcoming back lead singer Sam Confrey to Worthing and playing the full theatre set including all the Eagles' greatest hits from Take It Easy through to Long Road Out Of Eden. Hope to see you all there.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

Good Company

2010-07-05T02:35:00.000-07:00

Apparently, the Telecaster is more iconic than you might think. Here's the Alter Eagles' Sam Confrey with his - note the neat, distinctive cutaway above the scratchplate - getting ready to rehearse before the Chichester Festival. If you're a guitar fan, find out why artists the world over rave about this classic instrument by checking out the Guardian's web site. Quick, while it's still free.

Chichester Jazz & Real Ale Festival

2010-07-04T07:52:00.000-07:00

Alan and Colin in post-gig good humour

Just a quick note to say thanks to everyone who turned out to see us last night at the Chichester Jazz & Real Ale Festival. Priory Park was a picture in the sunshine and so were you - enthusiastic and really up for a good time. Thanks to the organisers for having us and for putting on such a great event and a special word for the Beach Boys Smile who shared the bill with us. They're a nice bunch of guys and a really great band.

We'll be updating the web site soon with some new photographs taken at the festival and there's rumour of a new video too. Keep you posted.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

Chichester Real Ale & Jazz Festival - TONIGHT

2010-07-03T02:04:00.000-07:00

Last call for our gig tonight at the Chichester Real Ale & Jazz Festival. Tickets on sale from the box office on 0870 950 9669. There are loads of detail on the festival web site and along with us, you'll get a full set from that great tribute The Beach Boys Smile. We'll be on just after 7.00pm and will be playing all your favourite Eagles' hits. Hope to see you there.

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

But you can never leave

2010-06-19T10:33:00.000-07:00

So how do you go about replacing the guy who's been fronting the band for two years? Here's how. You welcome back the Alter Eagles' original front man and lead vocalist extraordinaire, Sam Confrey. Sam's been in Bristol for the last couple of years - but he's feeling much better now, thanks - and rejoins the band for a sequence of gigs between now and the end of the year.

He'll be back in the saddle for the Chichester Jazz and Real Ale Festival on July 3rd and will follow that up with our gig at the Pavilion Theatre, Worthing on July 30th. Tickets for both gigs are on sale now and we hope you'll join us to welcome Sam back.

It's going to be great.

Chichester Jazz & Real Ale Festival
Pavilion Theatre, Worthing

THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

You can check out any time you like

2010-06-19T10:24:00.000-07:00

So it's farewell then to Garreth Hicklin. We'll remember the bright yellow van, the kite flying, the world's heaviest flight case, the wooly hat, the quick fag just before we were due to go on, and the fact that everything was "no trouble at all." Most of all, we'll remember his singing, good humour, technical wizardry and that twinkle in his eye. He came to the audition with his dad and raced through the three songs, clearly head and shoulders (though not literally) above the rest; then he asked if we wanted to do any more. There was even a version of Wasted Time with him on piano.

It's been a great couple of years, there have been some fabulous gigs and we've had a lot of fun, so we'd like to wish Garreth all the best in his new band - the Illegal Eagles - and look forward to seeing down the road somewhere.

Cheers Garreth,

Colin, Alan, Jay, Paul, Rob and KD
THE ALTER EAGLES
No Finer Tribute

The Boom Boom Club

2010-04-23T03:30:00.000-07:00

Looks like we're back at the Boom Boom Club in Sutton on Bonfire night, so expect fireworks. Sorry about that. We're excited to be playing there again - it's been a while and it's a really good venue with a noisy, knowledgeable crowd. Just need to find an alternative to that chippy round the corner for the pre-gig nosh and we'll be sorted. More details on the Alter Eagles web site soon.

Updates

2010-04-13T01:18:00.000-07:00

Contract with Chichester Jazz and Real Festival now signed - more details as soon as we get them. In other news, we've re-vamped part of the web site and added a new MUSIC & VIDEO page which now showcases not just the whole band at the Pavilion Theatre in Worthing but also lead singer Garreth Hicklin do a solo piano version of Love Will Keep Us Alive at our recent gig at South Street, Reading. And if you click the player in the right hand sidebar there's also an audio compilation of some our favourite Eagles tracks.

Thanks to everyone who turned out for that. We had a great night and really enjoyed ourselves. Onwards and upwards!

Chichester Real Ale & Jazz Festival

2010-04-03T03:00:00.000-07:00

We've been confirmed - subject to contract - as guests for the Saturday night at this established and highly popular outdoor festival on the sunny south coast(ish). Make a note in your diary:

Saturday April 3rd

Probably early evening

There are loads of bands playing and on the Saturday we'll be supporting 80s synthmeisters, The Human League (or we would have been if they hadn't played last year - apologies for mis-reading the info). Bit light on details at the moment, but we'll post more information here when we have it. Meantime, check out The Chichester Real Ale & Jazz Festival.

The Alter Eagles are "world class"

2010-02-26T04:11:00.000-08:00

It's not like us to blow our own trumpet, but when someone else does, it'd be rude not to recognise the fact. Thanks then to Mac MacLaren, editor at the Lemonrock Live Music Guide for his review of the band's gig at the Horns in Watford - full of detail and praise. "The vocal harmonies - 4 part in places - were rich, glossy, and tight. Such vocal texture in a live sound is such a rare beast within a rock band," says Mac. The guitar work was "outstanding" and "this standard of playing - and of musicianship - is truly world class."

Read the full report by going to the Lemonrock Live Music Guide.

Duh Duh Da-Da-Da-Da-Dum!!!!

2010-01-21T03:35:00.000-08:00

When he's not leading the line as one of the two Alter Eagles' lead guitarists, Colin Moore's a bit a of a drummer. Here he adopts the classic heavy metal pose before pounding the bejaysus out of Paul's very expensive drum kit. (Paul weeping offstage not pictured). First gig of the year next Friday at Plastic Red. Friendly place, over 30s, great staff, good - LOUD - DJ. Details on the web site. See you there!

Bells will be ringing...

2010-01-18T01:52:00.000-08:00

Alter Eagles singer Garreth Hicklin can't leave it alone, so instead of building a you-know-what during the recent snowfalls, he made this. It's a scale perfect replica of a Gibson electric stand up bass GB1234. He's got some intonation problems above the 10th fret, but otherwise it plays a treat. Expect to see it at a gig near you this year.

Eastbourne Gig Cancelled

2009-09-29T01:13:00.000-07:00

Sorry to say that our gig at the College Theatre in Eastbourne on Saturday the 17th of October has been cancelled due to circumstances beyond our control. We've always enjoyed playing in this lovely seaside town and have had some great evenings down on the bandstand there at at the Floral Hall, so we'll be looking for an alternative venue for next year.

That means our next gig is at the Ropetackle Arts Centre in Shoreham on Friday October 16th. Hope to see you there.

Nottingham gigs announced

2009-03-31T00:53:00.000-07:00

A typical night at the Diamond

On Sunday 3rd, we're at The Diamond, a great tribute band venue in Sutton-in-Ashfield, which has got a reputation for fun, frolics and friendly staff. We're looking forward to it and hope it'll be the start of more gigs up there so we can get the soft southerners in the band to realise that there's life north of the Watford Gap. Doors open at 7.00pm, tickets are a fiver (or four quid for members) and we're hoping for a good night. Call 01623 456617 for details.

But not too good, because the next day we're at the Ladybrook Hotel, playing an afternoon gig before heading back south. Get times and entry price details from the hotel on 01623 633185.

See you there!

Thanks and no thanks

2009-03-28T05:16:00.000-07:00

The club at Bitterne begins to fill up

Thanks to everyone who turned out to the gig at Bitterne Park Social Club last night. The place was pretty much packed and that's always nice to see, especially in these tough times. We had a real laugh too and enjoyed the gig, so thanks to everyone at the club who made us so welcome.

Unfortunately, when we loaded out there was a nasty surprise waiting for us. Some pillocks had broken into Garreth's van, damaged one of the deadlocks - and took his diary for God's sake. We know it's a long shot, but if anyone finds it (they probably just threw it away) get in touch via our web site. Garreth's one of the nicest blokes you'll ever meet and he doesn't deserve this kind of treatment.

Still, onwards and upwards. Back round Southampton way again tonight* so if you're in the Hythe area, check us out. Details as always, on the web site.

* Please note that all Alter Eagles vehicles are now protected by Dobermans wearing army helmets, chomping on cigars and armed with AK47s. You have been warned...

Havant Arts Centre - A FEW SEATS STILL LEFT

2009-01-19T10:45:00.000-08:00

Credit crunch be damned. We love the Havant Arts Centre and we love the people who go there. For the second time in two years, you've only gone and nearly sold us out. And you can bet we'll live up to it - the full theatre show plus songs from the latest album, Long Road Out Of Eden.

There are some seats left and if the box office says you can't sit together, don't let that put you off because we'll try and move people around - we're a friendly bunch.

Can't wait. See you all on Friday.

P.S. Come ready with your e-mail addresses. We want to sign you up for our mailing list.

GIGS 2009

2009-01-06T11:14:00.000-08:00

These are all the gigs we've booked in so far for 2009. Expect more to be announced soon. Click the image to go to the Gigs page on our web site. By the way, there'll be an Alter Eagles Facebook site coming soon too.

Rock and roll

2009-01-06T09:14:00.000-08:00

While strolling along the banks of the river Clyde before our sold out gig in Rutherglen (thanks to everyone who came) keyboard player Alan Tomkins and Bass guitarist Rob Beattie came across this, an abandoned television. At first we thought it was much too far from the windows of our hotel just up the road, but closer examination revealed an open window on the second floor. Later on guitarist Jay Stezaker was heard in reception complaining about the fact that his television didn't work properly and that if it wasn't sorted out soon he was going to have to take matters into his own hands.

Draw your own conclusions. We're saying nothing.

Boy Of Summer

2009-01-06T09:10:00.000-08:00

Don't know what it's like where you are, but it's bleedin' cold here. Thus, we thought we'd offer this - young Garreth Hicklin, strolling in the sunshine without a care in the world, last summer, somewhere in Yurp, as our American friends say. Our lead vocalist has struggled with the vicious flu bug that's ravaged the country, but a strict regime of orange juice and vitamin C (and barely any fags at all - on no) will no doubt leave him ready and raring to go for the gigs in the new year.

Roll on summer!

Only a few seats left

2008-11-20T06:46:00.000-08:00

But essentially tomorrow night's gig at Rutherglen in Glasgow is sold out; though there's always the occasional return so it's still worth checking with them. Thanks to the venue for their hard work, thanks to everyone who's bought tickets and thanks to the guys in the van who are - even as we write this - wending their way north in the van with all the gear. The rest of us? we're flying of course. No expense spared (hmm, so why have we got to leave the house at 4.00am...?)

See you tomorrow night!

Full Moon Party

2008-11-19T08:27:00.000-08:00

We're looking forward to a warm welcome at Rutherglen in Glasgow on Friday night. It's a great looking venue and we've heard a lot about the enthusiasm you lot north of the border have got for all things Eagles. We'll be bringing the full theatre show of course, with songs from Long Road Out Of Eden and one or two older ones from the Eagles' back catalogue as well as all the hits we can squeeze in. Here's to a great night.

He's on fire...

2008-10-20T01:22:00.000-07:00

Actually, it's just the lights. Here's Garreth sound checking at Ferneham Hall last Friday. If you look carefully, you can see Jay Stezaker's guitar sneaking into the shot in the background. Thanks again to the venue and you lot for turning up to what was another top night at one of our favourite theatres.

We'll be posting details of next year's gigs soon and adding one or two last minute 2008 dates in the coming week or so.

Oh beery me...

2008-09-26T12:08:00.000-07:00

Caught on camera at a secret location somewhere in deepest Buckinghamshire, where the boys had gathered to have a final rehearsal before the Horsham gig and work up some new numbers, the secret of those sweet vocal harmonies is finally revealed. Yes, Garreth returned from his European vacation with many of these little beauties in tow.

We're looking forward to White Rock in Hastings on Saturday the 4th. See you there!

White Rock Preview

2008-09-19T01:19:00.000-07:00

Cheers to the Bexhill Observer for giving us a preview earlier this month. The White Rock gig looks set to be our biggest yet and we're really looking forward to it. Hope to see some of you there in the wilds of 1066 country. We'll be playing three songs off the Eagles' latest album - How Long, Busy Being Fabulous and Long Road Out Of Eden as well as our usual selection of classic songs. Full details of the gig are here and you can book online using Ticketmaster.

You can read the full preview here.

Dinner and a show

2008-09-08T11:21:00.000-07:00

If you're coming along to the Capitol in Horsham on Saturday night (that's the 13th of September) you'll be pleased to know there's a swanky Chinese restaurant just over the road that does a tasty pre-show dinner deal for fans of good oriental cuisine. We of course, will be too busy tuning up to take advantage of such things, but that shouldn't stop you. Ladies and gentlemen, start your chopsticks...

Word Cloud

2008-09-04T03:55:00.000-07:00

So, wWe put together a press release for an upcoming gig and ran it through Wordle and out came this - a natty Alter Eagles Word Cloud. This program is just too busy being fabulous...

Sartorial Splendour

2008-09-02T11:24:00.000-07:00

As those of you who've seen the band will testify, keyboard maestro Alan Tomkins is something of a doyen when it comes to clobber. Witness the lengths he went to recently to acquire a Dodgers baseball shirt because Glenn Frey once wore one.

But nothing comes close to this, the t-shirt created especially for the band's summer gigs which debuted at the Pavilion Theatre in Worthing. The front may feature the current Alter Eagles line-up in a familiar pose, but the back. Well, the back was all Al's own work...

The Alter Eagles Live - Worthing Pavilion, July 2008

2008-09-02T11:22:00.000-07:00

That sinking feeling...

2008-08-15T09:51:00.000-07:00

While most of the band are enjoying their summer holidays, here in the sad cafe, we must continue to pound out the words, keeping our loyal fanbase entertained with an endless supply of Alter Eagles-related trivia. So, although we've had the good fortune to play at a number of classy venues with swanky facilities, we've also had our fair share of rubbish dressing rooms with sticky floors, damp sofas and once - memorably - this sink.

Classy, eh? You know who you are.

Is there gonna be anything left, is there gonna be...

2008-08-11T01:14:00.000-07:00

Not if this beer is anything to go by. Phoned in by lead singer Garreth Hicklin, who's currently enjoying his summer holiday in France and Spain, this intriguing concoction looks as though it ought to be a regular bottle of something nice, like Sol. In fact, it turns to be something called Desperados, a hellish combination of beer, tequila and lime - a drink only the most dedicated of Eagles tribute singers would be prepared to 'enjoy'; several times by the looks of things.

I'm mean...lime? Pucker up, everyone!

Fly the friendly skies

2008-07-29T04:45:00.000-07:00

Another friendly welcome at the Concorde in Eastleigh at the end of July, part of our last minute mini-mini tour of the Southampton area. It's a good deal for the audience - good nosh, nice atmosphere, great band - and a good deal for us - we get to sit in their lovely garden and then play to a classy crowd. Above is a shot of the Concorde sign at night and below is guitarist Jay Stezaker with his increasingly Joe Walsh hair and trademark Diet Coke.

Steady girls, we saw him first...

Long Road Out Of The Pavilion

2008-07-20T02:06:00.000-07:00

Last night's gig at the Pavilion Theatre in Worthing was great. Thanks to everyone who came and well played the technical staff who were brilliant with us. It's a fine little theatre and features the best back of the venue experience thus far, as you can see from this shot. Two more gigs in July and then we'll be taking August off as usual. Already looking forward to some big gigs before the end of the year though, and we'll be adding new stuff to the blog whether we're gigging or not. Guitarist Jay Stezaker's promised access to some of his exclusive on-the-road video clips as soon as he's figured out a way of editing out the incriminating bits...

Life In The Van Lane

2008-07-17T03:06:00.000-07:00

We'll combine this entry's round the back of the venue photo with one of lead singer Garreth getting in some solo acoustic guitar in the back of his van. This was in the break between setting up and playing to a packed house in the main tent at the Somerton Festival last weekend. We had a great time there and we'd like to thankthe organisers for making us so welcome and everyone who came along .

And if the girls from the local press who spent some time with us want to send us a copy of the article or give us a link to the photos, that'd be just fine too.

The glamour of it all

2008-07-13T05:08:00.000-07:00

From time to time we'll be running little regular features here designed to give you an insight into what life on the road with one of the UK's top tribute bands is like. In that spirit we present this - the back of the venue. We always think you can tell more about a place by looking round the back, not necessarily because it's messy, but because it's usually more interesting. This has enough tables and chairs for a picnic, but most of the band decided to skip that and instead splash out on a five star meal at a luxurious local restaurant. Sadly this was so popular that Colin Moore was the only one who managed to get a seat. Thanks to Ria for the photo.

He was always a bit flat

2008-07-08T11:10:00.000-07:00

Hands up if you remember our second lead singer, Sam Confrey? Sad to say, Sam's career as a cartoon stuntman seems to have come to a tragic end as he fell foul of Wile E. Coyote driving a steamroller. The results as you can see, are pretty gruesome.

Pavilion Here We Come

2008-07-07T09:49:00.000-07:00

Events are gathering pace for our upcoming show at the Pavilion Theatre in Worthing. Latest news is that the Worthing Herald have given us a good sized plug which we're hoping will attract some more people along who've not seen the band before. It's our first time in Worthing, though the band was started just down the road, so we're really looking forward to getting a good crowd. See you there!

Guest spot

2008-07-06T10:35:00.000-07:00

Here's Stu McCord the original drummer of the Alter Eagles, relaxing with keyboard player Alan Tomkins over a pint before our gig at The Old Actonians Club last Friday. Always good to see and play with Stu again. Cheers mate!

That's Gaz' van in the background, complete with magnetic adverts for upcoming gigs at South Street
Reading and the Camberley Theatre in Surrey.

Boy Of Summer

2008-06-25T13:13:00.000-07:00

When the band played Hayes and Yeading Sports Club in June this year, there was a surprise artist waiting to do some guest vocals. Yes, travelling back in time from that strange place called the 1980s was Don Henley himself, complete with LA shades and bubble perm. Cool as ever.

We love you Don!

Yes, it actually did...

2008-01-11T00:45:00.000-08:00

Of course many of us are familiar with Don Henley's quote about the Eagles getting together again "when Hell freezes over" and we all know what happened there....But it looks like it happened again. During a particularly cold snap, in the town of Hell in the US, this happened.

Moonlighting

2007-12-09T11:53:00.000-08:00

It seems that Al has been having some musical fun on the side. We don't want to speculate what kind of music requires the wearing of a tie. well we do, but we don't want to ask....

The Big Man

2007-10-19T01:47:00.001-07:00

We always said that ex-drummer Mark Davenport's seat would be a big one to fill and we were right. However, news from the US - where Mark now lives with his wife Phoebe - reached us a short while ago that indicates otherwise. It seems that Mark has well..shrunk and now makes his living touring with the stage show of The Borrowers.

We still love you Bashmeister!

Welcome

2007-10-03T05:33:00.000-07:00

To co-incide with the launch of our new web site, we thought we'd start an official - unofficial - blog where can spill the beans about what really goes on behind the scenes with the Alter Eagles. You know the kind of thing - tales from the road, filthy strings, Gaz's gargling habits...Join in, whydontcha?