4:40pm Tuesday 10th August 2010
By Daniel Binns
BAD news this week.
Yup, it's official – What's Cookin' at the Sheepwalk pub in Leytonstone High Road has come to an end.
Stephen and Ali are calling it quits because they're “just plain knackered”.
Stephen said: “we fancied a bit of rest. Yep, it's that simple. We loved that old room and I can tell you that many tears were spilt while Ali and me dismantled it, flower by tear-soaked flower.”
The twosome have undoubtedly helped put Leytonstone on the map of England's country and folk scene, and their enthusiasm and devotion to the cause of live music has deservedly been praised across east London and beyond.
But wipe away those tears! The good news is that What's Cookin' will still continue on a slightly stripped-down basis with monthly gigs at the North Star in nearby Browning Road instead.
The next scheduled show at the venue is on Sunday September 14, to coincide with Leytonstone's car-free day.
The gig will feature Little George, The Epstein and Graham Larkbey and the Escape Committee...and more!
It gets going at 4pm.
Meanwhile over in E17, The Plough Inn pub in Wood Street hosts an intriguing-sounding 'Beer Belly Festival' on Saturday (August 14).
Starting from 12 noon and running throughout the afternoon and evening, eight bands are set to take to the stage accompanied by a BBQ (weather permitting). Yum.
On Monday (August 16) the venue hosts a free blues jam night from 9pm.
High Heels and Low Lifes headline the Standard Music Venue in Blackhorse Road, Walthamstow, on Thursday (August 12).
Also playing on the unsigned band night, organised by promoters Club Bus Wind, are Panning for Gold and Kickstarter.
Entry is £6, or £5 if you have a band flyer.
Doors open around 8.30pm.
Waltham Abbey Folk Club hosts a Singaround jam night on Monday (August 16). Entry is £1.50p and doors to the venue, in Brooker Road, open at 8.30pm.
Up and coming bands Todger, The Party After and Elks play at the Square in Harlow on Thursday (August 12).
Tickets are £4 and doors open at 8pm.
Entry is for over 16s only.
Got a gig coming up? Email Sound Advice at dbinns@london.newsquest.co.uk
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