Managed to persuade Rosemary to go out for a musical occasion. We were going to see a performance of some of the works of the band Emerson, Lake and Palmer. Both Keith Emerson and Greg Lake are dead. Carl Palmer the sole surviving band member was the drummer, and with two other guitarists was touring Europe performing the works of ELP. Yes, they played the complete album side of Tarkus.

The concert was at The Stables in Milton Keynes, I had never been there, whereas Rosemary had, on a school trip with Selina when Selina was at middle school.

We started off by visiting Ikea and had supper there. I know how to treat a lady on a dinner date! Then it was on to The Stables for the concert. There was a support band, 4th Labyrinth, loud and not my taste, although the keyboardist had a good line in banter. R felt the female bassist would have a headache at the end due to all the dreadlock hair tossing she did. Carl Palmer then came on, his huge drum kit taking pride of place. The two supporting artists Paul Bielatowicz and bassist Simon Fitzpatrick played the guitars. Simon Fitzpatrick played the Chapman Stick for most of the concert. The music was recognisable as ELP, but very different. Well, of course, there was no keyboard. Despite the different instruments and interpretation, the music was excellent, even R agreed.

Carl Palmer intimated he was putting together an ELP 50th anniversary tour with some ‘A’ list musicians. Shall keep a look out for that.