Alice Armstrong’s Witching Hour Special at The Harlington in Fleet was such spooky, spectacular fun. Honestly, if you wanted a musical party to go to on Halloween, then this was it. In fact, this event was as much about the audience, as it was about the artists, as Armstrong’s angels came from far and wide to dress up and enjoy. Indeed, my photos below capture the costumes worn by the lovely, friendly crowd, as well as the ghoulish makeup of those on stage, so see if you can spot yourself or someone that you know!

The stage had a smoke filled film set atmosphere, that was Gothic, Victoriana and enchanting, full of pumpkins and cobwebs, as well as an "Eek!" sign amongst the audience! Organiser Richard Dunning who had helped Alice realise her dream tonight, introduced the event and instructed everyone, in typical The Tuesday Night Music Club Coulsdon fashion to sit, listen and not talk! Rightly so, given this evening the audience were held spellbound as this music hall inspired show unfolded.

Also having devilish fun were tonight's house band, comprising musical director Greg Coulson on keys/guitar/vocals and drummer Don Bannister, as well as guitarist Olly Knight–Smith plus Josh Rigal on bass, both of whom showed what skilled, versatile guitarists they are. Also having an absolute Halloween ball on stage were special guests Mat Day on guitar, Eddy Smith on keyboards/vocals, singers Jess Hayes and Afreine, plus the fabulous Will Wilde on harmonica/vocals.

This evening's set was surprising, as it was not all solid Blues, but also a mix of Pop and Rock too, all with a Halloween theme. Award winning Queen Witch Armstrong opened with 'Women Like Me', followed by 'Love’s A Killer', 'Strawberry Moon' and 'War Pigs', that also saw Wilde on harmonica. Other highlights were Will on vocals and harmonica on the Blues infused 'Alligator Wine', the singalong songs 'Tainted Love', 'Psycho Killer' plus 'Honky Tonk Hell' featuring Eddy, as well as Jess fronting on 'Midnight in Harlem', 'Whole Lotta Love' and dueting with Alice on a rousing 'Ghost Town'. Mat and Afriene also delighted, as did the superb closer 'Highway to Hell', with this talented ensemble scoring a well deserved standing ovation!

Understandably, the  merch flew off the stand afterwards, including Alice ‘s self designed  t-shirts (she's also a super talented graphic designer), as well as her brand new five-track Halloween EP, 'The Witching Hour'. Indeed, tonight everybody had a devilishly good time, as the  fun continued afterwards in the nearby pub! This is a Halloween party that you need to be at in 2027!

Review, photos and video: Denise Lester