Music Review: Grooves | Steve Craddock | Prince of Wales | former Ocean Colour Scene guitarist | Kentish Town pub

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The Review - MUSIC - grooves with RóISíN GADELRAB
Published: 29 January 2009

Steve Craddock with Marc Hayward

Ocean star is latest to be seen at Prince of Wales

REVIEW
Steve Craddock
The Prince of Wales

MODS, Mancs and celebs took over the Prince of Wales pub last week to see former Ocean Colour Scene guitarist Steve Craddock’s secret album launch.
Scooters lined up against the Kentish Town pub – which is fast gathering a reputation for unannounced rock ’n’ roll appearances – as queues of parka-wearing fans formed outside.
Former Stone Roses and Primal Scream bassist Mani joined Craddock throughout the performance of his debut solo album, The Kundalini’s Target.
Mr Craddock admitted last-minute nerves, telling Grooves: “It’s different, I’m singing – normally I just play guitar. I’ve never done it so I’m nervous.”
And when he finally took to the stage, Craddock had clearly gotten over his nerves. Accompanied by Mani’s familiar bass, his mystical songs laden with hippy sentiment were full of melodious harmonies not too dissimilar to his former band.
Among the sea of fans were a few well-known faces, including members of The Enemy, Shameless actor Jody Latham, and MTV presenter Dave Berry. Since it was taken over and given a dramatic revamp late last year, the pub has been the scene of numerous special appearances, including an impromtu Libertines reunion and performances from Reverend and the Makers and Finley Quaye.
Marc Hayward, co-owner of the Prince of Wales, said: “Steve Craddock’s been Paul Weller’s left-hand man for a few years and he decided to use this pub to showcase his new album. We thought it would be good to bring rock ’n’ roll to the corner of your street. We’ve had a lot of different artists and promoters here.”
The pub also hosts regular club nights on Fridays and Saturdays, attracting some of London’s best-known DJs.
Marc said: “Watch this space for even bigger events throughout 2009.
“We are also working with the Metropolitan Police on a youth project event on February 25 at the Prince of Wales Art Gallery.
“The event will be open to ages 10-21 and is aimed at helping the problematic divide between youth and the police. Jimmy Screech will be performing his new single, Wood from the Trees.”

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