Heron's warm up gig before going to Japan

 

It's not often that a missed opportunity becomes a reality. Having shared the stage with the likes of John Martyn, Status Quo, Edgar Broughton Band and David Bowie, '60s band Heron have had a cult following for many years in countries as far afield as Denmark, Argentina, USA and Japan but has rarely performed outside the UK.

Several years ago a tour was set up in Japan only to be cancelled due to the tsunami that struck so unexpectedly. A further tour was cancelled through ill health and it seemed likely that the chance to play there had gone forever. Hiroshi Kuse, the owner of AirMail Recordings and Heron fan, who released their last two albums Simple as 1,2,3 and Jokerman has persuaded them to visit Japan this November.

Says Steve Jones "We're none of us getting any younger and the thought of playing in Tokyo and Kyoto after all these years is like a dream come true." The original ‘70s albums Heron and Twice as Nice will be re-released in Japan to coincide with the tour.

As the other band members, Roy Apps, Tony Pook and GT Moore, all live so far apart and have other commitments, they rarely have the opportunity to develop new songs, let alone rehearse, so it's especially pleasing to know they have decided to get together in Bridport and do a warm-up gig at their favourite theatre The Lyric. They admit the show might be a bit rough and ready but they've never been known for their slickness anyway. It promises to be a good night of romantic songs and rich harmonies. Fitting it in before flying to Japan means it will be a midweek performance and will be at 8pm on Wed 2 November.

Tickets are £10, available from Bridport Arts Centre: 01308 424204 / online and BearKat Bistro, and if available on the door from 8pm.