19/5/2006 Girlschool at the Ace Cafe

Subject	Girlschool at the Ace Cafe
PostedDate	5/19/2006 11:03:00 PM
	Went to see female rock legends Girlschool at the also legendary rocker/biker haunt the Ace Cafe - a place steeped in atmosphere and biker folklore. Rather an appropriate place for a classic rock band like Girlschool to play, but there seemed to have been virtually no promotion and the girls played to around 30 people - very intimate for a band who can fill venues like the Underworld and Garage. I was a bit worried there might not be a bar at the venue as it was a 'cafe', but I needn't have worried as there was a better bar than found in many music venues - and bikers/drivers were better catered for than usual with low/no alcohol beer/Red Bull/coffee, ect as well as food. The stage was low and small, and drummer Denise was almost hidden from view (but not sound!) in a dark low ceilinged area at the back. The sound was good though, and quite loud in spite of the puny looking P.A. The girls looked like they were thoroughly enjoying themselves as they blasted through a set of their old classics and a selection of newers songs from their couple of recent albums. Everyone else present seemed to be thoroughly enjoying the show as well as headbanging was done and air guitars were deployed.  The low turnout meant not much cash was raised for the London Air Ambulance - a cause the band have also been supporting with their recent 'download only' singles. Still, it was a fun night in aid of a good cause and I will be keeping an eye on other forthcoming events at this rather cool venue.