Our first Under the Influence event was a tribute to Leonard Cohen. I had no idea then that our little night would grow, gain so much support and continue for so long. The choice then was simple: if I only manage to do one night who do I most want to pay tribute to? There was never any doubt. I Continue Reading →

James Dillon presents a new UTI gig video blog. He interviews Joe Murphy of the band Sergeant Buzfuz/ co-owner of Blang records and he reports from Sebright Arms at the Blang records night featuring New York anti-folkers Seth Hebert-Faergolzia & Multibird, The Reverse and 11th Hour Adventists.

Hosting this “Under  the Influence” night is a treat for me and I really hope you enjoy it. I first encountered Ian Dury and the Blockheads on TV in early 1978, at the psychiatric hospital where I was a ward orderly. Ian Dury leered out of the screen and sang “I could be the catalyst that sparks the revolution, I Continue Reading →

I first heard about The Ex somewhere near the end of the 90’s (they started in 1979 so I was late to the party). It wasn’t just their music I fell in love with straight away, but also their single-mindedness to do things their own way. They have no manager, roadie, driver and all their music is released by themselves. Continue Reading →

In anticipation of our special Alternative Xmas Service on Mon 15th Dec here’s a guest blog post from Alice Offley. Alice Offley is a singer songwriter and multi-talented, mutli-instrumentalist who has performed at Under The Influence previously both as a solo artist and as part of her all female band The Lovers: Christmas is my favourite time of year. When Continue Reading →

Bringing their unique brand of irreverent comedy, music and poetry, The AntiPoet return to Under The Influence on Mon 15th Dec. For a sneak preview they’ve kindly sent us this alternative Christmas Message…  The True Meaning of Christmas    ‘You’re forgetting the true meaning of  Christmas!’ She said. ‘I am?’ I replied. ‘You mean that kid in the shed?’ ‘Our Continue Reading →

Before our special 50th event on Mon 20th October here’s our final guest blog from My Mate George, who talks about his influences and what 1964 means to him. My Mate George writes very English, lyrical acoustic-style songs. Simple, silly, sometimes sweet, and certainly for singing-along to. Since his first appearance at our Billy Bragg night he has performed many Continue Reading →