The Witching Hour at the Harlington ,Fleet .

Review and photos by Ken Jackson

The Witching Hour at the Harlington ,Fleet .

Alice Armstrong’s Witching Hour turned The Harlington in Fleet into a delightfully spooky celebration of live music, friendship and Halloween fun. Following last year’s success, Alice brought the event back for a second time and it already feels like the start of a wonderful annual tradition.

Alice’s powerful vocals anchored a superb house band: Joshua Rigal on bass, Olly Knight-Smith on lead guitar and Don Bannister on drums, filling in while Kev Hickman tours with Walter Trout. A stellar line-up of guests kept the evening full of surprises, including Greg Coulson, whose appearance on keys and a rare turn on Guitar, was a treat .Guitarist Mat Day, Jess Hayes, keyboardist Eddy Smith Harmonica player and vocalist Will Wilde and Afreine.

Each brought their own energy to a night that felt generously, spirited and genuinely special. The Halloween atmosphere extended well beyond the stage. Guests arrived in wonderfully imaginative costumes, with a best dressed prize proving a difficult choice. The festivities began in the pub next door, carried on through the queue and continued throughout the show making the whole evening feel like one big party.

It was also a fitting way to celebrate Paul Dubbelmans birthday and Alice’s dream of a Halloween gig. A huge shout out to the team at The Harlington for creating such a welcoming space and just the right atmosphere. With fantastic performances, great company and a crowd fully embracing the occasion, Witching Hour was a memorable night all round and one well worth bringing back next Halloween