Fortyfied

We’d been looking forward to the night for weeks – had our tickets on the mantelpiece for months! Somehow, we felt that maybe something would happen to ruin it all, but the day had finally dawned and here we were, holding our breath, killing time in coffee shops, wandering the streets of London, surely tonight we’d get to see Nektar together for the first time. We were there in plenty of time. Slowly the hall filled. I don’t know what I was expecting, but I was surprised at how special it all felt. Just watching the audience gather it occurred to me that we all shared a common bond, we’d all found out this place, to share this moment with the music that we all love. I wondered if the band felt it too. There was a terrific atmosphere building in that place as people met, chatted and laughed together – so friendly. Pretty soon it was full to the rafters, and we were right at the front – the band would be close enough to touch! And so, they filed quietly onto the stage to loud applause. Roye said a quick ‘hi’ and launched . . . . . A Tab in the Ocean . . . . so familiar, but loud, and clear, and live, and HERE, and absolutely spot on! As the song closed there was the briefest of pauses . . . . then the crowd simply roared. I think even the band was surprised. A special moment this, it was a welcome that surely Nektar would never forget, I know I won’t. It was heart-felt. The whole night was magical. The music that means so much, that I thought we’d never get to see live in London, was superb. The band gave us everything, they worked so hard with such energy. As I looked around at some of the faces, everyone was beaming smiles or eyes closed - lost in the music, lost in the moment. At the start of the evening, I’d secretly hoped to hear my new favourite, and sure enough even my wish was granted as the band played Where are you Now, beautifully, and just for me (I think). Nektar, this was not just a gig for any of us I think. Thank you for the songs, and thank you for making such a powerful memory for so many of us who continue to listen to them.