This past Saturday, I attended the Gypsy Hotel – Billed as a ‘Bourbon Soaked Snake Charmin’ Rock’N’Roll Cabaret’ which takes place every third Saturday of the month, at the Lexington. Going by a previous review, I knew I was in for a good night, but it surpassed all my expectations.
Keen to check things out, I got there early and got a free shot of Bourbon for being one of first fifty people to arrive. As if that wasn’t enough of a treat, I also got a 10% discount at the bar, when joining their mailing list.
Once upstairs, I stepped into a darkly lit room with red wallpaper and hanging lampshades with fringing and tassels, which reminded of a New Orleans club I visited many moons ago. There wasn’t a very large seating area, but what was there, was comfortable. However, I cannot imagine wanting to sit down with all the great music going on, but if you are one of those quiet types who prefers to watch things from afar, I suggest you get there early to ensure you get a seat.
Before the show started, and in between bands, we were treated to a great mix by Scratchy Sounds who has a weekly radio show and played some great tunes.
Each performer was introduced by Paul-Ronney Angel, frontman of the Urban Voodoo Machine, who is the creator of this great night, described by Time Out as the sort of night you’d go to if you only had 12 hours to live.
The first performer was Ria Gruen, who was witty and funny. Her songs had an old world feel, reminiscent of a 1920′s Berlin cabaret. A perfect choice to set the atmosphere.
Ria Gruen – Photo by © Paul Dubbelman 2012
Next was John Crampton, who played steel slide guitar, banjo and harmonica and was a foot-stomping one man band with a Blues raspy voice that suited his music perfectly.
John Crampton – Photo © Paul Dubbelman 2012
The Ladykillers were next with their own unique brand of rockabilly garage rock’n'roll that had the audience dancing about. Definitely a band you ought to check out.
The Ladykillers – Photo © Paul Dubbelman 2012
Afterwards, the stunning Missy Macabre provided a fiery break with a mesmerising fire eating session.
Missy Macabre – Photo © Paul Dubbelman 2012
Next were Brandy Row and the Truebadours, who were my favourite band of the night and blew me away with an energetic performance, particularly from their frontman, the striking Brandy Row who played acoustic guitar and a mean harmonica. He was complimented by the soulful voice of Carrie Griffiths who provided additional vocals, both singers were backed up by a great bunch of musicians. A must-see band.
Brandy Row and The Truebadours- Photo © Paul Dubbelman 2012
Unfortunately, I missed the rest of the night, as I didn’t fancy a trek home too late on my own so apologies for not including the other performers who took part. Here’s hoping I can attend another Gypsy Hotel and stay in until the end.
On a side note, I want to thank Paul Dubbelman who kindly allowed me to use the great photos you see on this post.
A few links worth your attention, please check them out:
Brandy Row and the Truebadours
I could not find a Facebook page for Ria, but if anyone knows of one, please let me know and I’ll add it here.
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The next Gypsy Hotel is on Saturday 21st July and you can buy tickets here. It’s good value for money, considering you get a full night of entertainment.
Alannah Murphy is a former rock musician turned writer, currently working on a rock'n'roll novel set in London. 
