I dont think any comparisons between Micky Jones and this current band are wise if there is to be any peace around here. He doesnt derserve any comparison whatsoever to the band who with their last tour and album have just put humiliation on the name of the band that was his life.
Uncalled for? I'd say so.
Humiliation, Gavin?
What I saw on Sunday night was exciting, passionate and musically right up there. I had turned up in part out of some sense of loyalty, having been a huge fan since 1973, but my expectations were low. Live at the Star Club didn't do it for me, and I thought the writing was on the wall then. I subscribed dutifully to TWC for many years, but eventually jacked that in as I felt a dead horse was being severely over flogged. (Sorry, Michael)
Yes, humiliation Alan.
Whilst it is without dispute that there are 10 or so people on here who REALLY like the band, lets consider the facts of the events of the last few months:
Kindgdom of Noise released which was rushed, unfinished, shoddy, poorly mixed etc. etc. The album has a one star rating on Amazon and even some of Martins fans are calling it 'mediocre.' All to be expected from an album masterminded by Martin Ace but very sad that it bears the Man name.
20 or so people turn up to see them at the Pontardawe Festival, several of whom ask for their money back after not recognising the people on stage and having to endure a set dominated by Aces novelty songs and rock and roll tunes. The gig is reported by one festival goer on the forum as being by "The Martin Ace Band"
13 People turn up to see the band at Wrexham
Man are only able to get a gig at the 100 Club by agreeing not to do any other London gigs on the tour (in the past 3 London gigs would have been the norm)
This gives the band the only gig on the tour where audience numbers exceed 30 something.
30 odd audience at Hebden Bridge
30 something at Southend
Rhondda Parc gig is cancelled after 0 (zero) advance tickets are sold
30ish attendance at Leeds
13 at Doncaster
20 at Lathones
I'd say thats a pretty humiliating series of events. I just hope Martin and Phil are getting the message now! The only sad thing is that the Man name has been attached to all of this. Devalued and run in to the ground by Martin and co. Many of the bands past members think its time for the name to be laid to rest after the events of the last year of so I'm sure many are sad to see the band in its current state.
I have heard through the grapevine that Martin is considering calling it a day after the lack of interest in the recent tour and with TWC finishing at the end of the year.
It is the only dignified thing left to do. The horse is well and truly dead now.
Whether or not that happens it is highly unlikely there will ever be a Man UK tour again after the turnout on this tour. An average audience of 20 someting does not generate enough money to cover the bands fee (?500-?600) and the PA costs, let alone leave any profit for the promoter.
Sorry guys but that is the harsh reality of the situation.