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<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nFor fans of live music, it\u2019s the same the world over; venues are closing down every month. Here in Angoul\u00eame, our small local venue, Le Point Carr\u00e9, which holds about 120 people, closed down in February. Mercifully, and thanks to France still giving grants to support the arts, La Nef is celebrating its 30th<\/sup> anniversary. It\u2019s a lovely venue which holds up to 800 people, so, while not ideal for upcoming bands, has seen many great artists perform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Today, 1st<\/sup> April, is an all-day, free event, kicked off by yours truly (as part of our choir). \u2018Les Petits Chanteurs \u00c0 La Gueule De Bois\u2019, or \u2018The Hungover Choir\u2019, sing mainly in English. Imagine acapella versions of Muse, Beatles, Nirvana, and even \u2018Holiday In Cambodia\u2019. As Harry Hill said, you get the idea.<\/p>\n\n\n There were many local bands, but unfortunately due to time restrictions and commitments, I couldn\u2019t watch them all. However, I was able to catch the two, main events. Reverend Beat Man, of garage rock legends The Monsters, entertained and disturbed the capacity crowd in equal measure. Part minimalist garage rock\/blues, part warped voodoo priest, he is certainly unique. It was lovely to see some small children right down the front, with ear protectors, who were mesmerised rather than terrified. It\u2019s safe to say people will be talking about his set for years to come.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What can you say about Jim Jones that hasn\u2019t already been said? From The Swamps onwards, he hasn\u2019t put a foot wrong in providing rock n roll with 100% commitment. I left the UK in October 2019, happy that my band had played their final gig supporting The Righteous Mind. I didn\u2019t think I\u2019d get the chance to see the All Stars without travelling to the UK, but here they are, on my doorstep.<\/p>\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n