TEN FOOT TOM AND THE LEPROSY CROOKS

 LIVE AT THE FLEECE WITH THE JOHN DOE'S

11: 07: 15

Photos by Kevin Peirson

Alan and Dave of The John Doe's

Tom (10 ft)

A great night's entertainment provided by the excellent John Doe's (who are reviewed elsewhere in this fanzine, scroll down) and Ten Foot Tom and The Leprosy Crooks last night.

A leaner, meaner TFT treated us to sinewy, wiry and searingly dishevelled blues by the river.

Admittedly it was the Esk rather than the Mississippi, but the weather was hot and humid in keeping with the TFT vibe. Stripped down to a three piece, the sparser sound added intensity and urgency.

Tom has a rivetting presence as a frontman, he feels the music like truth in his blood and he breaks strings by trying to make them do things they're not equipped to do. A new guitar was required at one point, kindly (some might say foolishly) donated by Rob from the John Doe's.

Tight and compact, the engine provided by Mr Boyes on drums and Mr Corner on bass propels each
song like a runaway train to its final destination, which is usually a flailing guitar meltdown in front of a straining valve amp.

So sizzlng temperatures, Golden Sheep ale, two top bands, lovely company (Sarah and Kevin), a disappointing raffle, a conversation about map projections with Shepton and Chris, beermat fixation and drinks on the verandah. What more could you ask of a night out?

In the morning we'll be all confused and we won't know what to do, but that's Saturday Night for you, eh Tom?

Tom and Chris out of Ten Foot Tom and The Leprosy Crooks