
Everything posted by Mark Bicknell
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News: Upfront Or Way Behind Why?
Mossy I do hope your not trying to put words in my mouth old son lol yes I have publically stated pretty much I don't give a shit anymore but deep down I still love the tunes still this thread ain't about me it's about the scene in general and the fact that some venues are finding it hard to survive because of lack of support based on their music policy, the DJ thing for me became less exciting and rather stale so I stepped away from it granted it took me several attempts lol, once off the merry go round the desire and obession to buy and own records has become less important to me, despite the wayI feel, despite selling some of the so called big hitters, despite the politics, attitudes etc. I still want the people involved to enoy it and embrace the original Northern Soul ethic of alway's trying to move it forward musically and the simple fact for me personally was/is that the retro nostalgia thing simply does not float my boat so why be part of something you have little or no interest in. Regards - Mark Bicknell.
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News: Upfront Or Way Behind Why?
The trouble is Phil no matter how hard you try or think you are out of it even by our very comments and thoughts on this forum alone you can never be free of it, I've not been to more than six soul events in the past couple of years but like it or not it's still part of me, if we are true to ourselves once you become involved in this scene at whatever capacity it seems to be with you for life and that goes if you try and break away from it, sell all the records whatever, sometimes I miss it other times I hate it but having made a full on contribution to the scene over the years it's almost impossible to totally break free, I honstley can say that I don't miss going to soul events but pretty much come on hear everyday be it to sell records, nose to see what's going on out there and is one of the reasons I asked the questions here and raised the points I have as I might not be involved anymore but basically I guess I still care for what goes on and what the scene has become and the fundimental true hardcore fact in all this and deeper than owing all the rare trophy records in the world is that in it's basic natural form there is no taking away than it don't get much better than The Poets - She Blew A Good Thing, Ray Pollard - The Drifter, The Ringleaders - Baby What Has Happened To Our Love, The Dells - Make Sure, The Showmen - Our Love Will Grow etc. etc. and a thousand other records that have been the sound track to our lives all of our lives. Regards - Mark Bicknell.
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News: Upfront Or Way Behind Why?
Not the only reason but certainly a major factor why I stepped back from DJ'ing was I got fed up of basically playing the same type of records, it became almost a chore rather than enjoyable simply going through the motions as good as The Cashmeres, Bobby Kline, Majestics etc. etc. are/were I felt I was selling myself short as there is often more to DJ's than their playbox, since being out of the DJ loop I have moved many of these records on despite this I could stiill cut the mustard from the collection without the tried and tested floor packing records as if they ain't there you can't play them, depth of collection has to make the DJ rather than 200 well known, big ticket or otherwise 45's which can no matter how good they are become over played and the magic of the tuine lost, in some DJ boxes it seems that many DJ's chase the same records and I certainly in part fell into that trap, as much as I loved these records I find myself in the situation of not really being that bothered about owning them anymore. Regards - Mark Bicknell.
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News: Upfront Or Way Behind Why?
Rod Shard has just been to visit and he has no bloody idea either lol on a serious note some interesting replies here, was not my intention to make this another oldies v newies thing more to ask why some venues with a more upfront music policy fail to get good numbers in when some of the music played at these venues gets the thumbs up and good press on the scene. Regards - Mark Bicknell.
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Upfront Or Way Behind Why?
Being very much out of the loop scene wise so from an outsider looking in as it were it would seem to be a common theme that some of shall we say the more upfront rare soul venues are finding it difficult to get decent numbers through the doors, lost count how many times I read the music was brilliant but numbers were down, seems a little odd to me that when you look at the playlists many of the DJ's are playing top end records which command the big ticket prices on auctions etc. yet fail to draw the masses in which seems to make a nonsence to the whole rare soul ethic. Has the Northern scene become a retro nostalgia trip with little or no interest in different, lesser played or just quality rare soul? would it not be fair to suggest if the upfront or rare end of the music was that good then it would be better supported? or is it more down to attitude of the people trying to move it forward? or simply not that important to people who choose not to attend or support the upfront or different venues? Regards - Mark Bicknell.
- News: Upfront Or Way Behind Why?
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Record Digging Stories.. Book..
Hi Andy/Nicola, will get my thinking cap on this weekend and get my contribution down on the old PC, involves myself and Coxy aka Kevin Cox and a beautiful trip to Chicago and Detroit where we almost got arrested by a big American cop and his pump action shot gun lol for sleeping in Coxy's camper van van parked up in a suburb of Chicago one night and the day we found 99 copies of Detroit Soul - All Of My Life, 25 Dean Courtney RCA Victor Issues and many more all for two bucks each...sweet home Chicago that's for sure. Regards - Mark Bicknell.
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2009-0405justpictures4
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stafford 04 04 2010 1162
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Return of the Droylsden Northern Soul Allnighters 8th August 2009
Return of the Droylsden Northern Soul Allnighters 8th Aug 2009 It's been over 15 years since the original Droylsden Allnighter back in the early 90's at The Concord Suite so a nice gap between venues lol, The Starlight Club is bang across the road from The Concord Suite so people should have no problems finding the venue, this is a hidden gem of a venue and as soon as I went and had a look at it I simply knew it was perfect to host an Allnighter, the club owner is a top bloke and is on my side which has made things easy to deal with from the off, it is my intention to promote simply a quality soul music event with the traditions, ethics and ethos of the original venue for 2009, looking to run around six Allnighters a year subject to finding free dates which is almost impossible but I will do my best to avoid other promotions at least in the area, the music policy is simple basically trying to provide quality tuneage from quality DJ's and the first night line up ticks all the boxes, Ian, Ted, Liam, Paul.B, Cliff, Nige and myself can certainly provide some top tuneage, everyone connected with the event has worked their socks off spreading the word, memberships are rolling in on a daily basis so it's looking good to be a well attended first night, hope some of you can make it. Event flyer is below and some before/after images of the venue as well Membership is required for this event, easy to join 'The Soul Club, send full details to bicknellmark@aol.com or text 07531132187 and Membership cards and event flyer will be sent free of charge up until Monday August 3rd and after that cut off date for mailing cards a reference number will be issued to every application for collection on the night. The Soul Club Droylsden Northern Soul Allnighter Saturday August 8th Starlight Club Droylsden Manchester 9pm - 7am Top DJ's - Ted Massey, Ian Cunliffe, Nige Brown, Cliff Steele, Liam Quinn & Paul.B (Beat Boutique,Manchester) Mark Bicknell
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good 'ole boys 3
The couple is Andy Kaine and Nicky Davis, two very good friends of mine way back, not seen Andy in god well over twenty five years I bet perhaps longer, not seen Nicky in years either, we used to go everywhere together, Wigan, Yate all over the place, happy days. Regards -Mark Bicknell.
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Sad News Richard Popcorn Wylie RIP
It's taken me a few days to post anything on this very sad thread as I feel like I've lost a best friend, like Dave, Neil, Gilly, Steve Whittle and others I knew and loved the man, lost contact in recent years but he will always be in my heart, remember a record trip to the States back in 1990 with my good friend Kevin Cox we stopped off to see Popcorn one afternoon and I was amazed and very honoured to see that he had many photographs on the walls of his living room of various people connected with the UK soul scene including one of I think Gilly, Steve Whittle, Popcorn and myself, Kevin took a couple of photos of myself and Popcorn which are now in a montage type framed picture above my turntable at home, he was a gentle soul, kind and very humble, his contribution to this music of ours is huge, few can even come close, like others I had the pleasure of seeing him perform several times in Dunstable, Mancheter, Great Yarmouth and more importantly I had the pleasure of his company, friendship, tenderness, smile and huge talent, there is a very big hole in the soul world now, as a small way of saying thank to you Richard I'm putting a two hour show together on Starpoint dedicted to the life and work of our friend which will broadcast on Sunday 21st September, I really want to get this right and do him justice so any ideas for tracks etc. please contact bicknellmark@aol.com, already have a big list of records but all and any help or suggestions will be most helpful.....good night Richard sleep well. Regards - Mark Bicknell.
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The tunes
Don't you just love em'
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banbury soul club
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banbury soul club
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img-2749
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banbury soul club
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kebab mr and mrs dopson........lol
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soul talking
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jm in serious thought.....tunes!
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soul friends
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soul friends
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twelve years on..the gang!
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nice
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the willinghams in london!
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oh lucy!!!........got you!
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four more port issue's - juicy
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port issue's tasty
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port demo's yummy
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more action at the orwell
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mr willingham
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mrs willingham.........big smile!!!
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tunes, don't you just love them!!!!
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6 New Kent 45s Out Now - 3 on New Kent Select Label
News of 6 New Rare and Northern Soul 45 Releases from Mark Bicknell I've had a bugger of a day at work getting ready for a busy Easter.....retail sucks, arrived home to a nice couple of packages from Ace/Kent in one i was delighted to find another batch of six Kent 45's, the other package contained the new Villa CD and Northern Monsters CD which are well worth a punt and deserve their very own mention on here which i might just do a little later. The first three 45's are on the new 'Kent Select' logo nice Blue label design in a superb company bag, very classy and extra tasty, all three are stunning double headers and you really must get these now!!!!, this new logo is i think going to be releasing some of the superb unissued material which Ady has discovered in recent years and featured on many of his superb CD's City 001 is the outstanding Tobi Lark - 'True True Love' B/W Little Ann - 'Sweep It Out In The Shed' which of course was originally recorded and issued by Tobi Lark on Topper records, both are stunning unissued tracks taken form the Kent CD "Dave Hamiltons Detroit Dancers Volume Three" Kent CDKEND 257, if you only buy one of these new 45's it has to be this one, Tobi lark is simply 'hit you full in the face' hard edged Detroit...awesome Ady. City 002 - is the wonderful 'A Broken Heart Cries' from The Pretenders originally released on "A Carnival Of Soul Volume Two" Kent CDKEND 118 from Joe Evans wonderful Carnival set up from New York, flip this winner over and you will discover the beautiful John Edwards - 'How Can I Go On Without You' taken from John Edwards - "A Careful Man Kent CDKEND 127......Dynamite Ady. City 003 - The Other Brothers - 'Nobody But Me' taken from "Serious Shades Of Soul For Collectors Only" Kent CDKEND 119 B/W Betty Swann - 'The Dance Is Over' taken from "The Soul Of Money Volume Two" CDKEND 267, i think you are getting the picture here of how good these releases are, two simply stunning sides, the Bettye Swann is just about as good as it gets for me and one i have featured on the show since the original CD came out a couple of years ago, i think it also featured on her solo recordings CD Kent also put out a bit back now, i'm sure this is just the start of some wonderful 45's in this 'Select' series.......ten out of ten Mr Croasdell. I believe the above three 45's will be retailing at around ten pounds....bargain or what? and will be limited to a 500 pressing run so simply get in fast as these are gonna fly out, best check with Ady directly or contact www.acerecords.com The next three are carrying on from the last batch of Kent 45 releases on the Red, White, Black and Grey logo again presented in a nice company bag the quality continues here with three yummy double headers so it's very much 'two for the price of one' with this little lot, i think these 45's retail around £5/6.00 but again you need to check with the gaffer on this. Millie Jackson - 'A House For Sale' B/W Garland Green - 'Come Through Me' - Town 124 - two simply class acts. Town 125 i think will out sell even the Tobi Lark 45 as here we have two awesome sides that have been on many wants lists in recent years and still pack those dance floors nationwide - Unique Blend - 'Yes I'm In Love' B/W ' Houston Outlaws - 'Ain't No Telling' crossover with ease, crossover to die for.........wonderful Mr Croasdell. And Finally Town 126 is a double diamond 64 million dollar sure fired winner - Bobby Wisdom - 'Handwritting On The Wall' from 1966 originally issued on 'Out A Site' records which is as hard as rocking horse droppings to find and will cost you a small fortune or rather a big one...lol if you can find one that is? B/W Morris Chestnut - 'Too Darn Soulful' cut back in 1967 and can only be described as a Northern Anthem and i'm glad to say i still have my Amy promo tucked away in the collection. Morris of course recently played live at the Prestatyn weekender performing this classic to over 3.000 happy people...Darn soulful just too darn i bet as i missed it. These are must have legit, authentic re - issues, Ady and Kent do it by the book, the sound quality is first class, the records are well presented and will i'm sure be well recieved, i will be giving them a full preview and airing on the show in a couple of weeks which will be a pleasure to do....first class effort Mr Croasdell....what's next ????????? www.solarradio.com Miss these 45's at your peril....Tobi Lark is a Godess.....tunnnnnnne! Regards - Mark Bicknell. orignally posted up soul source forum thread to view discussion https://www.soul-source.co.uk/index.php?showtopic=46272
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News: Soul Deep BBC A Critique By Rob Moss
As we all television viewing you have a simple choice and an on off switch!!! This offering was not to everyones taste or standards so don't watch simple as that. Regards - Mark Bicknell.
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mark bicknell 1985@rsg...looking a bit gay
Might look gay but oh the records in that box i ain't got anymore, still out there doing it though....lol Regards - Mark Bicknell.
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Merry Christmas Everyone !!
Thought it might be a nice idea to start a Christmas message thread here on Soulsource. Ill start the ball rolling in wishing everyone out there a very happy Christmas and soulful new year, just like to thank a few people on a more personal level for DJ bookings etc. over the past year special thanks to Chris Waterman, Ady Croasdell,Neil Jones and Jayne Malone, all at the Bridgewater Soul Nights,Mace and many more. Big shout to Brett Franklin, Rich Buckley, Jamie, Mike Hughes, Jumping Joan, Shane and Kate, Trevski, Andy McCabe, Chalky, Janine, Dave Abbott,Tony Smith, Mick Smith, Andy Dyson, Mick H,Steve Cato,Derek Pearson, Kolla and all here on soulsourceeven Bexter.....lol Happy Christmas Kev. Thanks also for your dedicated and loyal support on my Solar Radio gig Sunday nights,will be on air Boxing Day night from 8pm - 10pm www.solarradio.com CHANNEL 879 SKY DIGITAL. Saved a fortune on Christmas cards and stamps here...lol all the best. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Regards - Mark Bicknell
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Soulmasters - Rare Authentic Footage Found
Soulmasters - Rare Authentic Footage Found!!! Set To Preview At The New Century Soul Club Third Allnighter On The Big Screen! Have you ever wondered what it would be like to actually see what some of the artists must have looked like at the original time of recording some of this wonderful music of ours?????? well Ive always been interested in seeing any promotional photographs and the very rare odd bit of footage that has surfaced over the years as its beautiful to put a face to the voice which just adds a different dimension to the whole thing, so imagine firstly my shock and then total joy recently to find out that material is out there of some very obscure and rare artists.......... this coming Saturday February 28th THE NEW CENTURY SOUL CLUB is proud to preview some of the most wonderful exclusive rare soul footage ever to hit the Northern Soul scene in its four decade history. Did you ever dream you would see the likes of Joe Matthews performing Shes My Beauty Queen, CODs in the flesh doing Michael, OJays - Lipstick Traces, Eddie Hill - Baby I Cried the wonderful flip side to You Got The Best Of Me Jackie Wilson in colour performing the classic Higher And Higher Tony Clarke proves on film that he was The Entertainer Major Lance Monkey Time see the Major dance and entertain.... simply awesome stuff and this is just a taster of mind blowing material which made me cry in places, it has to be seen otherwise you wont believe me. This stuff is so important and without question is going to be a major talking point and reverlation on the scene once people see it they will have to have it trust me......its possibly one of the most important finds in years. For further details on this contact bicknellmark@aol.com
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NEW CENTURY SOUL CLUB / NEW UNTOUCHABLES HUGE EASTER SUNDAY BIRMINGHAM.
NEW CENTURY SOUL CLUB / NEW UNTOUCHABLES JOIN FORCES FOR A HUGE EASTER SUNDAY TWO ROOMER..... IN BIRMINGHAM. NEW CENTURY SOUL CLUB - Present Easter Alldayer - Music Policy Across The Board On Sunday 11th April - 2PM - 2AM. AT CLUB AIR - Heathmill Lane, Digbeth, Birmingham, B9 4AL. Main Room DJs Mark Bicknell ( NCSC ) Carl Willingham ( NCSC ) Karl Rhodes ( NCSC ) Kiddo ( NCSC ) Steve Thomas ( North Wales ) Phil Blacknell ( North Wales ) Gary Belcher ( West Midlands ) Dave Welding ( West Midlands ) Rob Kay ( East Midlands ) John Poole ( East Midlands ) Jo Wallace ( London ) Sean Chapman ( Luton ) PLUS THE NEW UNTOUCHABLES ROOM. With DJs Pid, Gavin N Vic, Roger Banks, Rob Bailey, Mark Raison ( Shake ) Mark Thomas ( Heavenley Blocked ) Neil Henderson ( The Hideaway ) Tickets £10.00 Advance/ £12.00 Pay On The Door/ Available from Beatin Rhythm 0161 834 7783 - info@newcenturysoul.co.uk or by credit card rob@newuntouchables.com For further information contact Chris 07989 425991/ Lee 07973 864256 - www.newcenturysoul.co.uk This is a state of the art venue in the heart of Birmingham with two fantastic rooms, as with our Manchester Allnighter we can promise first class sound systems in the two rooms and top class facilities throughout the venue. Some superb DJs booked from both camps so we look forward to a very busy session on Easter Sunday in Birmingham, the main venue flyers will be out there soon with full details etc, as above. Keep It Real - Mark Bicknell.
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New Century Nighter - News, Info and DJ timings
NEW CENTURY SOUL CLUB ALLNIGHTER SATURDAY JULY 31ST - MAIN ROOM DJ TIMES. Just a quick posting with the main room DJ Times for the NEW CENTURY SOUL CLUB ALLNIGHTER this coming Saturday night AT THE NEW CENTURY HOUSE, CORPERATION STREET, MANCHESTER. DJ TIMES. 9PM - 10PM STEVE THOMAS. 10PM - 11PM COLIN KIDSON. 11PM - 12 M/N - STEVE CSORDAZS. 12M/N - 1AM - ROGER BANKS. 1AM - 2AM - CARL WILLINGHAM. 2AM - 3AM - MARK BICKNELL. 3AM - 4AM - MICK H. 4AM - 5AM - KITCH. 5AM - 6AM - SEAN CHAPMAN. 6AM - 7AM - KARL RHODES. All DJs please note as we are a 10 hour/10 DJ event please stick to time and running order, and arrive on stage in good time for your set, thank you. Also Dont forget we welcome the FLIPSIDE R&B CLUB to the venue downstairs in the second room wit DJs TEDDY COULDSTONE, HORSE, JOE DUTTON, MARK STEWART, MACE PLUS SPECIAL GUESTS CARL WILLINGHAM AND ROGER BANKS. If you are hitting Manchester early please check out THE DUCIE BRIDGE WARM UP SESSION opp the venue with STEVE CATO and friends from 7pm through to 10pm - admission free, chill out and warm up over a few beers before the allnighter starts. Looking forward to seeing you all there, for further details check out www.newcenturysoul.co.uk Regards - Mark Bicknell.
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Latest Blast of News inc New Niter details!
Hi All Sorry not been in touch with you all recently but ive been such a busy DJ chapie over the past few weeks nationwide from Edinburgh through to The Plintston 1st Anniversary with stops off in Hinckley, The Ritz Manchester, Kempston Rovers in Bedford and local events at Bury Town Hall and The Limestreet Club with more bookings to follow for the rest of the year plus i have to fit day job in, Solar Radio Show, family life etc. etc. so again sorry for the gaps but i will try to do more regular features here on Soul Source as and when i can find the time........ oh then theres all the work going into Tim Browns Rare Soul Review Magazine issue four which should hit the streets towards the end of the year, so ill keep you posted on that one. Please note that my Solar radio Show has now been moved from the 2am time slot to 8am through 10am every sunday morning which is going really well......Breakfast time on sundays will never be the same again, the show format is still the same with two hours of action packed radio covering some four decades of quality Northern Soul based club culture and music.....Solar can be found on channel 879 on SKY DIGITAL or www.solarradio.com for any requests, mentions or dedictions please email studio@solarradio.com ok now for some really fantastic news which should go down well with everyone currently connected with the rare soul scene today.......... A MAJOR AND I MEAN MAJOR NEW NORTHERN SOUL ALLNIGHTER HAS BEEN SECURED IN MANCHESTER WHICH WILL RUN ON A REGULAR MONTHLY BASIS SOMETHING WHICH IS MUCH NEEDED ON TODAYS SCENE. THE NEW CENTURY SOUL CLUB IS BORN AND THE FIRST NIGHT IS BOOKED AND CONFIRMED FOR SATURDAY DECEMBER 6TH 2003 AT NEW CENTURY HOUSE, CORPERATION STREET MANCHESTER M60 4ES - OPP MANCHESTER VICTORIA TRAIN STATION. MUSIC POLICY WILL BE TOTALLY ACROSS THE BOARD WITH DJS BOOKED FOR THE FIRST ALLNIGHTER BEING CARL WILLINGHAM, STEVE THOMAS, KEVIN MURPHY,DAVE EVISON, BRIAN RAE, KARL RHODES, GARY COPE, PAUL KIDD, KIDDO AND MARK BICKNELL( RESIDENT ) had to get that one in!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! OTHER TOP NAMES WILL APPEAR AT FUTURE MONTHLY ALLNIGHTERS AT THIS SUPERB STATE OF THE ART VENUE, WHICH WILL HOST A TOP CLASS SOUND SYSTEM, LARGE DANCE FLOOR, BAR INFACT THE ROOM HAS IT ALL.......................... THE NIGHT WILL RUN FROM 9PM THROUGH TO 7AM AND ADMISSION WILL BE £10.00 FOR ADVANCE TICKETS AND £12.00 ON THE DOOR - TICKETS AVAILABLE FROM - BEATIN RHYTHM 0161 834 7783 - KINGBEE RECORDS 0161 860 4762 - EARWAVES RECORDS 0161 236 4022 AND FROM ALL OF THE DJS PLAYING AT THE ALLNIGHTER FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT CHRIS 07989 415991 - LEE 07973 864256 OR info@goodtimes.co NEW CENTURY SOUL CLUB - FIRST ALLNIGHTER SATURDAY DECEMBER 6TH 2003 - THEN THE LAST SATURDAY OF THE MONTH FROM JANUARY 2004 - ITS GONNA BE HUGE.............................. See you soon - regards - Mark Bicknell
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New Allnighter For Manchester Update +more
New Century Soul Club - New Allnighter For Manchester Update. Well we are a little over a month away from a real big event for the Northern Soul scene with the superb New Century Soul Club Allnighter which happens on Saturday December 6th 2003 from 9pm through to 7am at the wonderful NEW CENTURY HOUSE (CIS) BUILDING ON CORPORATION STREET MANCHESTER, OPP VICTORIA TRAIN STATION. So far the pre buzz and support for this event has been simply awesome and the word is very much out there for this outstanding new promotion. Every effort is being made to make this event work with all hands, DJs and promoters spreading the word nationwide. DJs for the first night are all booked and confirmed and include - CARL WILLINGHAM, STEVE THOMAS, KEV MURPHY, BRIAN RAE, DAVE EVISON, KARL RHODES, GARY COPE, PAUL KIDD, KIDDO AND LITTLE OLD ME MARK BICKNELL. THE MUSIC POLICY WILL SIMPLY BE TOTALLY ACROSS THE BOARD PLAYED THROUGH A STATE OF THE ART SOUND SYSTEM IN JUST ABOUT ONE OF THE BEST VENUES IN THE COUNTRY. This event will run on the last Saturday of the month from January 31st DJs booked and confirmed for this one include - TIM BROWN, ROBO, DAVE RIMMER, MICK H, GARY COPE, KIDDO AND MYSELF. February 28th DJs include GUY HENNIGAN T.B.C, KEVIN MURRY, NEIL JONES, SOUL SAM, ALAN POLLARD, GARY COPE, KIDDO AND MYSELF. Also its possible that there will also a feature upfront Modern Soul room at the venue from January yet to be confirmed but should happen, again TOP DJs will be booked for this room which will make the event even bigger and better! It is the intention of the New Century Soul Club to book as many top line DJs as we can throughout the year but also wish to showcase New DJs fresh to the scene so watch this space. Tickets are now on sale from all the DJs or directly from Chris on 07989 415991 or Lee on 07973 864256, you can also email info@goodtymes.co.uk and also check out the new website which should be on line this week which is www.newcenturysoul.co.uk where you will find all the information you need, DJ profiles, news views and lots more. Tickets are £10.00 advance or £12.00 pay on the door and can be obtained from Beatin Rhythm Records on 0161 860 7783 and King Bee Records on 0161 236 4022. or you can contact me directly on 0161 330 6267 email bicknellmark@aol.com and I can put you in touch with the hottest ticket in town!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This event is basically going to be a venue of quality from the flyers through to the sound system, presentation, music policy, and national promotion via radio, magazines, word of mouth etc. Chris and Lee the promoters have without question gone about this in a professional expert manner, their passion and leg work on this has so far been awesome plus with a little help from Mr Gary Cope and myself we all hope you support this much needed venue for we hope a new era in the Northern Soul scenes long and rich history, all focus is on presenting an outstanding night out with a touch of class and real passion for the music we all love so every effort has and will be made to bring Northern Soul very much into the 21st Century on December 6th in Manchester and we hope this time next year tickets for the first Anniversary will be like gold dust! Other News In Brief. Seems like the new bootleg issue and my recent comments have been well supported, I feel so strongly about this issue and thank you all for your kind and detailed fedback on this bastard of all subjects. See Bettye Lavette is filling in for a sick Ko Ko Taylor this coming Saturday at The London Jazz Cafe, shame this as Im DJing that night so wont be able to see the show, trust me if you are in town that night check out still possibly one of the finest Soul singers of all time. The Jazz Cafe is situated at 5 Parkway, Camden, London NWI - Telephone 08701 500 044 / 020 7916 6060. Thats all from me this time out - Keep It Real - Mark Bicknell.
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The New Manchester Niter UPDATE*
New Manchester Allnighter - New Century House Saturday December 6th - Update.............Simply wow!!!! what a venue. So far the promotion of The New Century Soul Club first Northern Soul Allnighter on December 6th at The New Century House - CIS building is really going well, the pre buzz for this event is awesome and of course Im gonna big it up and support the efforts of Co promoters Mr Chris Waterman and Lee Crank because so far the whole operation has been conducted with passion, commitment and style from the flyers, posters and nationwide advertising everything is now in place to build the venue as a major regular monthly event which will run on the last Saturday every month throughout 2004. So what of the venue, well Ive been on the scene for some twenty seven years and I can honestly say that I have never seen a better venue for a Northern gig to be hosted in, this place has it all in a word its an AWESOME room which took my breath away when I finally got to see it a few days ago, first class in every avenue with a superb bar area taylor made for a nice drink, a bite to eat and the selling of records. The main room is just outstanding and when the room is dressed and sound system which will be state of the art is in place on December the 6th this will be without question the place to be. The venue very much confirms the club name New Century as it will present a quality Allnighter which the scene warrents in this day and age. There will also be a pre bar venue hosted by Steve Cato at Atlas Bar on Deansgate, Manchester from about 8pm where several DJs will be in place to offer a relaxed warm up to the big one just down the road and you will be able to secure an advanced ticket to save any messing about later- admission to Atlas will be free of charge and a nice way to start the night off. For further information and tickets for the New Century Allnighter you can contact Chris on 07989 415991 or Lee on 07973 864256 or info@goodtymes.co.uk Admission is £10.00 advance or £12.00 on the door, being that this is going to be a very busy event it may be an idea to secure tickets asap. The wow factor is going to come in with everyone who attends Im sure, we want to build a quality event for Soul fans run by Soul fans its that simple and trust me this is without question one of the best venues Ive ever seen and I hope that people will enjoy and treasure the opening night on December 6th and soon enough the word and reputation will spread nationwide. There are plans to add a second room from January 31st in which direction, music policy has yet to be finalised but we will be inviting many of the scenes top spinners to play the venue and may well invite other clubs to host a session in the second room, one such idea is to get all the London Clubs up, i.e Dome Capitol Soul, These Old Shoes, 100 Club, Scenesville etc. So there are many good things and ideas we can put into practice which can only be good for the scene. So New Century is very much based on a people thing and making it work for the people who pay their money so any ideas for future events will very much be taken on board. Im very proud and honoured to have been asked to become resident DJ being as this is very possibly one of the biggest events to happen in Manchester for many years and will sport the corner for this event as I do for all venues I work at be it through my radio show on Solar, word of mouth via the pages of Soul source or whatever its so important for the future of our scene that all venues are supported be it the small basement club or major venue such as this. What we have to remember is that NO ONE is bigger than this scene of ours and the most important single thing is the music and keeping it fresh and alive. What I do know is this venue will certainly try to move forward and keep it real,alive and fresh so we can all enjoy the future. Finally there a several people to thank so far for all their wonderful support in the promotion of this event so far which include - Debbie Troops at BBC on line, Mike Ritson and Stuart Russell at Manifestio, Tim Brown at Anglo American, Carl Webster Lewis and Tony Monson at Solar Radio, All at Soul Source, Blues and Soul, Echoes for their superb coverage, the likes of Steve Cato, Garry Cope, Carl Rhodes, Steve Thomas, Carl Willingham, Kev Murphy, Kiddo, Dave Evison, Brian Rae, Paul Kidd - The DJs for spreading the word, Ian Obeng at Night Owl radio 96.9 FM, On The Scene gig guide, Russ Winstanley at BBC GMR, Jazz FM 100.4, local and national press, all the venues who allowed flyers to be displayed at their gigs and you the people I hope for your support on the first night and in the future. See you all on December 6th, even if you turn up late perhaps after attending another gig in the area you will all be more than welcome. Keep It Real - Mark Bicknell. Thank You Straight Back At Ya! Mark, I am taking this opportunity to thank you too. THANK YOU. There you go , done it. May I also just say that Chris and Myself cannot tell you how much we appreciate the hard graft that everone involved has put in?, from the bottom of our hearts we truely appreciate how much you guys have worked your knackers off in helping us to make this a night to remember( i know a song about that!). We kick of our regular allnighter in 2004 at the end of January which is also going to be somethiong special, i cant go in to too much detail as to why but you will all have to listen to Mark on sundays Big Daddys Soul Shack as to find out why! ?, we will announce the DJ line ups and something that will simply make Januarys night as succesful as our Decembers night looks it going to be. May I thank all the people that Chris and I have spoke to at the events around the country showing us fantastic support for the night,and all the fellow Nortern promoters that have allowed us in the clubs to help promote our own. You are all welcome to do exactly the same at our events, this goes without saying. We have already sold hundreds of tickets which is fantastic and thankyou to everyone that has bought, Chris and I will endeavour to make this a fantastic night for you all and this goes to every one that will come down. it gunna be fantastic for the love of the scene. sorry for any spelling mistakes and poor grammar,this is what Ashton-Under-Lyne has done for me! only jokin I love Ashton. See you all on 6th December. ps. keep hold of your tickets after the events because you will need them throughout the year of 2004 to get special discounts and offers for later events. THANK YOU. Lee.
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A quick reply from Mark B
Just a quick reply to the person I seem to have offended with my recent top twenty listed on Soul source, I respect your comments and in no way wash I being flash with my brief comment after each record it was basically to inform, spread and share a little background for people interested in collecting and is a similar thing to what I often do in other publications when reviewing records as often the first question any collector asks is how much does a record sell for......... Im proud to to mentioned in the same breath as Mr Ian Levine as despite what some people think of him his contribution and discovery of records over the years has been awesome and has to be respected. I have no axe to grind with anyone on this scene but I will shoot from the hip and pass comment if I feel strongly about a particular subject or topic but will always put my name to it so this mystrey person has or thinks he has the upper hand but the truth is any comment unsigned has no credability at all. Thanks to Mike H. Ian Cunliffe and The Big O for their kind comments and support, and at the end of the day it was only a top twenty from a guy who likes to play a few records....... and a couple of price tags were mentioned like I say as a guide nothing more. Perhaps it would be better for us all to share information rather than have a pop every five minutes and like Ive said before those who often shout the loudest basically have fuck all to say. And NO the new Manchester Allnighter will not be used as a plattform to brag about record prices or big egos it will simply be about a good night and nothing more......see you on December 6th. Keep It Real - Mark Bicknell.
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New Manchester Allnighter Final Update
New Manchester Allnighter Final Update...................... DJ Times and more. Well its almost upon us with only a few days to go everything is now in place to what looks like being a fantastic first allnighter this coming Saturday DECEMBER 6TH at THE NEW CENTURY SOUL CLUBS EVENT AT NEW CENTURY HOUSE, CIS BUILDING CORPORATION STREET, MANCHESTER OPPOSITE VICTORIA TRAIN STATION. DJs on the first night include Kiddo, Paul Kidd, Gary Cope, Karl Rhodes, Brian Rae, Dave Evison, Kev Murphy, Steve Thomas, Carl Willingham, Mark Bicknell. A total across the board music policy is promised in a fantastic venue perfect for a Northern Soul Allnighter, every effort has been made to make this huge event work and we would like to thank everyone who has worked so hard in promoting this event nationwide, there are so many to thank but they know who they are. DJ Times as follows. 9 - 10 Kiddo. 10 - 11 Gary Cope. 11 - 12 Paul Kidd. 12 - 1 Dave Evison. 1 - 2 Karl Rhodes. 2 - 3 Kev Murphy. 3 - 4 Steve Thomas. 4 - 5 Mark Bicknell. 5 - 6 Carl Willingham. 6 - 7 Brian Rae. Also there will be an Allnighter pre - bar warm up session at ATLAS BAR, on Deansgate from 7pm through to 10pm with DJs Paul Sadot, Steve Cato and guests, admission to this is free and will be the perfect place to get in the mood for the big one just down the road and also you will be able to secure last minute advance tickets at £10.00 for the Allnighter. Advance tickets can also be obtained from Beatin Rhythm Records on 0161 834 7783. King Bee Records on 0161 860 4762, Jumbo Records Leeds on 0113 2455570. For further information and ticket reservations please feel free to call Chris on 07989 415991, Lee 07973 864256 or info@goodtymes.co.uk. Remember this is the start of a major new Northern Soul Allnighter run by Soul Fans for Soul Fans and is booked and confirmed to run on the last Saturday of the month with Allnighter two set to happen on Saturday January 31st and will host the after show party for Paul Sadots Once Upon A Time In Wigan play which starts a national run in January, a second room will be open downstairs in The New Century House venue and will be a themed Casino night with original DJs Dave Evison, Steve Whittle, Brian Rae and Russ Winstanley, there will also be the launch of the Kent Records CD Once upon A Time In Wigan which features all the tunes used in the play. So a very special big night is on the cards in January and future nights will include special one offs in room two such as all the London Clubs coming up to Manchester, Stafford Special, Wheel night with all original DJs etc. so its very much intended to include as many people, DJs and themes at future nights, any ideas you may have will be taken on board so please get in touch. Finally from a personal level I would like to thank Chris Waterman and Lee Crank for having the faith in me as their resident DJ and basically trusting my judgement and contacts in suggesting and booking all the future DJs from January onwards, these guys have put a lot on the line here, the event has been promoted with dedication, passion and commitment, the leg work alone has seen both of them at numerous events nationwide over the past several weeks, thousands of flyers, national advertising, every effort has been made to make this superb event work, all the DJs including myself will give it 110% and more on the night to make it an enjoyable, entertaining night of quality Northern Soul. The foundations are there, everything is in place to take the scene to another level and with your help THE NEW CENTURY SOUL CLUB will take us all there!!!!!!! Keep It Real - Chris Waterman, Lee Crank, Mark Bicknell, Gary Cope - All the DJs of The New Century Soul Club...................