By the Old Git

So What is this Ashford Rocks thing Then ?

It's a venue, The Homelands (Ashford Town FC) with a capacity for 320 people. The Idea is to get as many local and not quite so local bands a Gig, somewhere to play their hearts out, Somewhere for the many talented Rock, Hip Hop, Metal, whatever you want to call them artists to perform in front of as many people as possible. The Council have recently imposed an age limit on entry which is 16 years old and above. There is a licensed bar so the over 18's can get a beer.

So How did all this come about then ?

My Son was in a band for a while and his band wanted a Gig, but because they were pretty raw they were not in a position to get a Gig in any local pub. I approached the Football Club and asked if I could organise a "Rock Night" They agreed, my son's band Monkey Punch and three other bands, One eyed Porridge, Celestial Anxiety and Underground Phoenix turned up as well. To my great surprise the enigma that is Hindsight also turned up, complete with a massive drum kit. I could not believe my luck. We all had a great evening, everybody behaved and the Football Club were happy and suggested I put on some more. Ashford Rocks was born !.

So what's an old Git like you doing getting involved then ?

I love music, especially gut thumping Rock music, I was brought up on Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, E.L.P, T.Rex, King Crimson, Hawkwind,  just to name a few. I have seen some of the worlds greatest artists perform live, I have even seen more recent bands such as Slipknot and Less than Jake, InMe and Hundred Reasons, I currently like Rammstein and Coheed & Cumbria.  I was a DJ during the 70's and still do a bit today here and there. I think there is so much musical talent in the area that must be put on show. I get an enormous buzz out of all the bands we have there and I think all the bands and people that come to see them get a buzz out of it as well. That's why I do it. I am astounded at the help and support I have received from all the bands and that makes it a pleasure to do it.

What about the Future then ?

Homelands Rock Nights, all the time people turn up to see the bands and don't cause any trouble or damage they will continue, as you will see on the Gig Guide I have bands booked right through, and I have many bands wanting to return or play their first slot there. It is a growing phenomenon, the word is spreading people the word is spreading.

Are there going to be any Big named bands come down to play @ Homelands ?

I am working on it, but at the end of the day it is for Local bands to Gig, let's not lose sight of that. The Big bands can play anywhere but the local bands whether they are an established band or have never Gigged before, they  deserve a chance and that's what this is all about.

Here, Old Git what about   ...........

If you have a question about these Gigs, email me, if it's sensible I will answer it. I enquiries@ashfordrocks.com