Proof, if needed, that you’re never too old to rock

Gomrath album launch party

We recently reported on Cold Ash resident Martin Long’s amazing musical journey - see https://www.newburytoday.co.uk/lifestyle/record-label-releases-music-of-newbury-man-s-rock-band-thank-9384245/ Old recordings by his band Gomrath were unearthed by archive record company Bright Carvings. They tracked down Martin’s brother and bandmate Adrian. Ultimately the brothers signed a record contract and their debut album was released 50 years after the original songs were last aired.

With two members of the original five-piece sadly deceased and a third proving uncontactable, a live celebratory gig/launch party presented something of a challenge. After intense rehearsals and the recording of ‘new’ backing tracks two fifths of the original band were ready to take to the stage again.

And so on Sunday around 100 supporters crammed into the Brave New World Bar in Surbiton a short distance from Adrian’s home, writes Pete Dunkley. Martin regaled the audience of family, friends and fans with details of their journey; their formation, the break up, the 50-year hiatus and the startling events of the last few months. We also heard from Bright Carvings head honcho John Groocock, a man with an extraordinary passion for prog-rock from the late 60 and early 70s. A warm tribute was also paid to the other three band members.

And so, Martin on guitar and Adrian on keys hit the stage to a tremendous reception. Their seven-song set featured tracks from the album, a rediscovered B-side, and a cover of a tune by 60s rock band Spooky Tooth. Adrian deputised on vocals for the late Paul Martin and the audience were transported back to 1971 as Gomrath entertained with a fusion of blues, rock and melodic experimentation so typical of that era. Aficionados of that period detected the influence of bands like Caravan, Atomic Rooster and a hint of Pink Floyd.

Martin’s blistering lead lines and rhythmic riffing thrilled and Adrian added some deft keyboard work, but admitted he needed regular prompts from the lyric sheets scattered on his music stand.

As the set drew to a close the audience were urged to ‘get down’, but many of the mature crowd expressed a concern that if they did, they might not get up! Nevertheless, the last tune was met with rapturous applause and the demand for an encore.

We’d like to report that the band were dragged back on stage, but the cramped facilities meant they never had a chance to leave. Gomrath duly obliged, but with a limited repertoire, were forced to reprise Runcible Spode which they’d played earlier. Nobody cared.

An uplifting story, a great launch party and proof, if needed, that you’re never too old to rock.