CrippleClub

CRIPPLE CLUB - LATEST UPLOADS

A FLIGHT TO MEET LOVE IN THE AFTERNOON

Made home from my 10 day road trip...way behind on my music.

Monday Playlist week of 8/5/2024

Cripple Club | All Time Charts

(Written by Terry Reeves)
Terry Reeves: Lead Vocal
Gary Reeves: Drums / Backing Vocals
Hans-Michael Albers: All other instruments, Arrangement & Production

Having been born in the 1950s and then being a child and teenager of the potentially optimistic 1960s it has been monumentally depressing to see the outbreak of hostilities in Europe. The fall of the Berlin Wall and ensuing disintegration of the Soviet Union certainly gave rise to the now mistaken assumption that the Cold War really was coming to an end.  Perhaps we didn’t focus as closely as we should on the bigger picture... 

It probably hasn’t escaped your attention that to a large extent, the world would appear to be on something of a downward curve. The rich get richer, the poor and powerless are simply ground into the dust, merely collateral damage to an insatiable hunger for power.  I could write an extensive list of exactly where this is happening alongside those I believe to be responsible and do not for a moment doubt that you, dear reader, could do the same.  But why say what others have more eloquently said already?  Only a complete and utter fool would even try. 

Not so long ago, I was playing a few of my favourite Beatles’ tunes and as these things have a habit of doing, a melody somehow manifested itself out of nowhere.  Before long, I found myself singing the words "Not Back in the USSR", which seemed to fit rather nicely.  Until that point, I'd had no intention of writing a song about the war in Ukraine at all.  Nonetheless, that is precisely what I did. 

Of course, I blame Hans & Gal for taking my inoffensive little protest song and turning it into the Heavy Rock anthem presented to you here. Honest guv’nor, it's nothing to do with me.  
With love to you all, 
Terry Reeves

A dictator from the Soviet Union 
Head way back in the USSR
Groomed by Kremlin to be cold
Can’t believe how unlucky you are

War a crime, without a question 
Killing people never has a right
Prefer dictatorship to democracy 
A single thought, one single swipe 

Is there a chance to find a way?
Is this the end of yesterday?
Why can’t the Russian people stand up and have their say?

Not back in the USSR
You don’t know how lucky you are…..boy

No battle will ever stop a tyrant
Increasing lies to a single mind
One way to remove a madman 
Persuade blind not to follow the blind

Thousands of missiles kill the living 
Destruction of a joined up past 
No corridor exit to help survival 
Reduce Ukrainians so very fast

Is there a chance to find a way?
Is this the end of yesterday? 
Why can’t the Russian people stand up and have their say?

Not back in the USSR
You don’t know how lucky you are……..girl

Kremlin closing every single door
No friendships for one hundred years or more

No winning a war of destruction 
Your isolation will eventually find
History remembers unlawful killers
A true reflection of dictator's mind

Destroying chance to understand 
Killing life with no second thought
The Kremlin must face investigation 
A vast creation of lies to all, in short
 
Is there a chance to find a way?
Is this the end of yesterday? 
Why can’t the Russian people stand up and have their say?

Not back in the USSR
You don’t know how lucky you are
Not back in the USSR
You don’t know how lucky you are...

NOT BACK IN THE USSR - CRPPLE CLUB

(Written by Terry Reeves)
Terry Reeves:  Vocals
Gary Reeves:  Drums
Hans-Michael Albers:  All other instruments, Arrangement & Production

In the aftermath of Bri's death, me and my brother Gal had many conversations about ways in which we could celebrate his life, particularly in regard to his music.  His songs were the soundtrack to our life, pretty much uncelebrated outside of the family circle but as important to us as those that spawned lifelong careers for their creators in the big wide world existing outside the close-knit Reeves clan.
Through his membership at the mental health charity Core Arts, Gal became aware of SoundCloud.  In May 2012, he logged-in for the very first time and quickly  became utterly fascinated with the site.  Before long, he created a page called ‘Mountain Songs’, so named after Rocky Mountain, the alter-ego Bri had adopted during his late teenage years.
More in hope than expectation, Gal posted a few songs. Plays didn’t exactly flood-in at first, until Gal realised that to get, one had to give, so he set about finding artists whose music pushed all the right buttons. So began an obsession that would take him to unexpected horizons and which, in return, brought many to the Mountain Songs page. 
One who returned time after time was an Australian artist called ‘Chris O’, who left behind so many positive, encouraging comments.  At that stage he didn’t even know how to reply to these but Chris took the trouble to educate him in the finer points of SC etiquette and as time went on, a true music friendship was born.  When she was touring the UK, she even took the trouble to visit him on more than once occasion, virtual friends becoming in-the-flesh real.  
A few months ago, Chris sent Gal the most wonderful present.  Previously, Gal had sent her a link to a video he’d once made of cloud formations, which Chris seemed to enjoy very much.  Consequently, her gift was a wonderful video of clouds, seen from ground level and also from various aeroplane trips she'd taken over the years, accompanied by a stunning song called ‘Looking Up and Down’ which, to Gal’s amazement, she dedicated to him:   
https://youtu.be/3fHo4B1x_BY?si=3q2-8Vo_e3sJ10q9
Around the same time, Chris had left a comment under the Cripple Club song ‘My Atheist Angels’, lamenting that she had never found the love I had with Jo but in her usual way, expressing solace that she nonetheless had her “guitars, banjos and songs”.  This got me thinking that  maybe Chris had no idea how much and how widely she is herself loved.  And so started the germ of an idea for a song that would express my admiration for her talent and drive.  I know there are many among you who’d agree and hope I’ve managed to encapsulate that admiration in the track.  Many thanks for reading and listening.  (Terry Reeves)   

I met a brave woman by the name of Mrs O
Playing ‘The Blues’ flying high sometimes flying low
Guitars and Banjos pitching..always acoustic 
Singing and sharing a love affair with music

The Love Of Mrs O

No distance too far, mile by mile growing warm
Confidence of written word believing in art-form
Marriage strings and voice harmonising sounds
The love of freedom scales tightly in bounds 

The Love Of Mrs O

Concerts of brave, pulse to a time
Ensemble in waves, helping the climb
Brothers of blues, traveller of love
Live music choose, to fit like a glove

The Love Of Mrs O

Mrs O keeps soaring magnum opus in her hands
Song of friendship for a man from many bands
Expanse of cumulus clouds, filming for all to see
Never hiding from the challenge in the Nebulosity 

The Love Of Mrs O

Up and down across the world finding a closeness
No discrimination of any kind, love is always best
From ‘The Beatles’ land to a Sydney education 
Fondness for Mrs O, giving a continuous ovation

The Love Of Mrs O

THE LOVE OF MRS. O - CRIPPLE CLUB

(Written by Terry Reeves)
Terry Reeves: Vocals
Gary Reeves: Drums
Hans-Michael Albers: All other instruments, Arrangement & Production

Despite it happening over a hundred years ago, the sinking of The Titanic is a subject which continues to fascinate.  Many may believe the ship’s misfortune in striking an iceberg was the simple reason for her demise but the true story is a catalogue of human error.  Investigation of the circumstances have unearthed a plethora of  mistakes that in their own way, all contributed to the disaster.  

In 1985, a secret mission to find the wrecks of two nuclear submarines unwittingly discovered that of The Titanic and since that time, ongoing scientific expeditions have discovered that the metal structure has created a species of bacteria that will eventually consume the entire ship, recycling the nutrients into the ocean ecosystem.  You can’t fight Mother Nature.  And you can’t fight those who'll always spot a way of making huge amounts of profit, no matter the grisly events from which they evolve. 

By 1998, tickets were put on sale at $32,500 each for tourists to view the remains and since then, fewer than 250 people have visited the site.  By 2021, OceanGate, who owned the Titan submarine, were offering tours to view said remains at a cost of up to $250,000 per person.  

Whilst understanding the continued scientific interest, I do find it macabre that the graves of those killed aboard Titanic, many from poor backgrounds, should become a tourist playground for the rich and privileged. That isn't to say I wasn’t glued to the news, hoping for a positive outcome in the rescue bid for those aboard the Titan sub.  It was deeply upsetting to discover that they had perished.  Some five years before the fatal implosion, specialists had warned OceanGate that the venture could very possibly end in such a disaster, yet I very much doubt the occupants, who had paid so much, were made aware of the fact.

I wanted to write a song that reflected how little we have learned in the century or so between Titanic and Titan.  It seems that, for rich and poor alike, the arrogance of greed will always be with us. (Terry Reeves)

(For those wondering what ‘CQD’ means, it was the first signal the wireless operator aboard Titanic used to call for assistance and means “All Stations.  Distress!” Later though, he did also transmit the more universally used code, ’SOS’). 
 
Underwater tour, down in deep watery waves
Two hundred and fifty thousand to visit the graves
The ghosts of 3rd class continue to descend 
Death has no pleasure, haunting message to send

Can’t believe 
No I can’t believe it’s happened again
It’s happened again ( x4)

Sad moments of time forgotten names of the past
Imagine the screaming ending in silent broadcast 
Locking caged doors using padlocks and chains
No consideration given to lower class remains

Can’t believe 
No I can’t believe it’s happened again
It’s happened again ( x4)

CQD, CQD, CQD, CQD….

Can’t believe 
No I can’t believe it’s happened again
It’s happened again ( x4)
 
The rich need to own hold what no one else has
A brief chance to look down on the poor and the sad?
Excepting the science knowing lessons to learn
But not for amusement boasting others to yearn

Can’t believe 
No I can’t believe it’s happened again
It’s happened again ( x4)

Arrogance sank ‘Titanic’ built for luxury and speed
Now laying very static on the bottom of the sea
Arrogance imploded the ‘Titan’ Carbon submarine 
Sadly reminding too much money can be obscene

Can’t believe,  No I can’t believe 
Can’t believe,  No I can’t believe it’s happened again
It’s happened again ( x12) 

Can’t believe, Can’t believe 

CQD, CQD, CQD, CQD….

TITANIC TO TITAN - CRIPPLE CLUB

Meeting with Shyntwirl: artwork Shyntwirl

One of the most intriguing artists on soundcloud, not to say the most onearthly creature –( in a good way ) is Shyntwirl….

He contacted me so respectful and called me creatif…. Multiply that with a milion and you have the Shyntwirl world….

Main difference is, I feel the need to please, while he is really free; no bounderies.

We called each other brother and sister and made an attempt to collaboration. 

I tried to make something with what he sent me, and it began to live it’s own life…. So far away from the original… 

It was the purpose i would add my vocals, not words but sounds as experimental as Bjork, and several others he named.

I began so enthousiatic several lines of chanting and added synths, other rythmes , had to cut things away from the original and i remained with something that nothing had to do with the initial plan…

My little brother didn’t give up and sended more etc…He remixed etc. Several new ideas…
He posted FORGOTTEN wich I like! 

https://soundcloud.com/maishel-owo/shyntwirl-forgotten-prod?in=maishel-owo/sets/clouds-ep&si=55b9907e16744b7dbeb11faf852fdef3&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing

But i had to finish my project - it’s not a real collab - I call it a tribute to Synthwirl.
I hope you enjoy: MEETING WITH SYNTHWIRL!

Meeting with shyntwirl (remastered)

All guitars and final mix by Neno J. on.soundcloud.com/zH9vq3MzzExrnDjQ9
Original music, arrangement, piano, organ; J.J. Terrell

Lazy Afternoon (collab with Mr. Neno J.)

I don't normally do covers , but i had to get this out of my system . One of my all time fav songs by the late great Liam Reilly of Bagatelle fame , this is my tribute to a wonderful and talented singer songwriter , hope you like my version of this great song !
Wonderful memories of when I lived there .

Summer in Dublin

Summer In Dublin

Many thanks to She's Excited! and Couch King Presents for giving life to this old demo.

Instrumental, mix and artwork - @wouwouandthewormling
Vocals and lyrics - @she-s-excited
Vocals and lyrics - @couch-king-presents

Flight (feat. She's Excited! & Couch King Presents)

(Written by Terry Reeves)
Terry Reeves:  Vocals
Gary Reeves: Drums
Hans-Michael Albers:  All other instruments,  Arrangement & Production

Cover pic by The Artwork Factory

My wife Jo and I met at work, having applied for the same job and as luck would have it, we were both offered positions in the personnel department.  I was instantly attracted to her and though there was an eight year difference in age, we seemed to have a true likeness of mind, the only problem being that the two of us were in long-term relationships.  Still, this didn’t mean we couldn’t be friends and we began to spend many a happy lunch hour together. 

However, the more I got to know her, the more it became readily apparent that my feelings were much more than mere friendship.  What made every working day worthwhile were those lunch hours we’d spend together.  I simply couldn’t stop thinking about her but given our circumstances, I kept these feelings bottled up for two long years.  Eventually though, I decided to gather my courage in both hands and tell her I loved her.  To be honest, I expected to get a negative response but all she said was “We need to talk”.

We talked and talked and talked and talked about every potential eventuality but nothing ever changed the fact that I really did love her.  Despite the fact that she’d never considered the possibility of us being together, it was such a relief when she told me she was very willing to totally change the course of her life.  Talk about your heart skipping a beat…

OK, so it didn’t prove easy but neither of us has ever regretted one single thing.  Thirty five years on, we are still very much in love and this song celebrates those wonderful lunchtime meetings, sharing more and more of our feelings, growing ever close through a friendship that became a bond as close as any couple could wish to have.  We hadn’t a clue where it would go and yet here we both are.  I still cannot stop loving her.

I owe a debt of thanks to Hans and Gal who pulled out all the stops to get this song ready for Jo’s 58th birthday.  Cheers boys! (Terry Reeves)

A friendship without complications
Conversations with no need to end
No conditions between sharing moments 
Chance to smile avoid thoughts to send

Chorus:
I cannot stop, cannot stop, I cannot stop loving you
I cannot stop loving the way you move
I cannot stop loving you
I cannot stop hearing your loving groove 

Space between survives the madness 
Surrounding words no sense to see
Sharing stories sometimes sadness
Not knowing why we should let it be

Chorus

Surprise connection with a distance
No disagreement but avoid a close look
Cautions grow, can’t change persistence 
The fairytale of perfect stays in the book

Chorus

I CANNOT STOP LOVING YOU - CRIPPLE CLUB

Original Lyrics that inspired Glen by Tony Harris
Vocals, Music and Mix by Glen Granthem

HE GREW UP IN THE SOUTH IN THE 1920'S
WHEN WORK WAS HARD TO FIND
A YOUNG MAN IN HIS THIRTY'S
NO STRANGER TO THE DAILY GRIND

BACK IN THOSE DAYS OF OLD
MOST OF THE WELLS WERE DUG BY HAND
WATER WAS WORTH IT'S WEIGHT IN GOLD
AND VERY IMPORTANT WHEN BUYIN' LAND

TO EARN EXTRA MONEY DURING HARD TIMES
HE DECIDED TO START DIGGIN' WELLS BY HAND
KNOWIN' IT WAS HARD WORK AND LONG HOURS
IT WAS GOIN' TO BE HIS SHORT TERM PLAN

(CHORUS)
AFTER DIGGIN' SEVERAL  WELLS BY HAND
THEY STARTED LAUGHTIN' AT THE YOUNG MAN
HIS WELL DIGGIN' REPUTATION WAS A JOKE
HE COULDN'T HIT WATER IF HE FELL OUT OF THE BOAT
HE COULDN'T HIT WATER IF HE FELL OUT OF THE BOAT

HE HAD NEVER HEARD OF WELL WATER WITCHIN'
YOU HAVE TO KNOW WHERE THE WATER IS LOCATED
BEFORE YOU PICK UP A SHOVEL AND START DIGGIN'
IF YOUR GONNA BE A DEVOTED WELL DIGGER

HE NEVER TOOK THE TIME TO DO ANY RESEARCH
JUST PURCHASED HIS TOOLS AND STARTED DIGGIN'
WOUND UP BEING A WELL DIGGIN' JOKE
THAT COULDN'T HIT WATER IF HE FELL OUT OF THE BOAT

(REPEAT CHORUS)

(GUITAR SOLO)

(REPEAT CHORUS AND OUT)

2024 © Lyrics by Tony Harris

He couldn't hit Water if he fell out of the Boat -  Collab by Tony & Glenny G's One Man Band

(Written by Terry Reeves)
Terry Reeves:  Vocals
Gary Reeves:  Congas
Hans-Michael Albers: All other instruments,  Arrangement & Production

Illustration by Michael Tompsett

Behind the mix video:  
https://youtu.be/B8sz6TwQfh0?si=_vU1R8YKlnKTCMNm

My niece Sam has always been a wholly free and singular spirit, something which enables her to fully embrace life and live it exactly how she pleases.  For his proposal of marriage, her partner Tom arranged for a busker to play ‘Here Comes The Sun’ (her favourite song) as they walked along the beach one bright Sunday morning.  They decided to tie the knot on the Isle Of Wight, a small island set off the coast of Southern England and known by locals as ‘The Jewel Of The South’.  For various reasons, none of the band are able to travel to the ceremony, which is taking place today, on the 27th. August 2024 so, as means of both apology and compensation, I decided to write a song to commemorate the joining together of two profoundly unique people.  We hope our gift will always help remind them of this very special day on their Island of Dreams.

Most of my songs are connected to events from both past and present and as I searched for the catalyst that would light my path to a song for Sam and Tom, my mind alighted on something that happened at my 60th. birthday party.  

In the traditional Reeves’ fashion, live music was an essential part of the celebrations.  
To get things going, Gal and myself played a few Cripple Club songs, my brother Bri’s kids Joby and Blue did a couple of theirs until we eventually reached a point where it seemed there were more people on stage than in the audience.  For those in the latter category, I left various percussion instruments laying around so that even they could join in if they so wished.  Sam chose an old  tambourine, which sadly fell apart in her hands as she was playing.  She felt so guilty that she brought along her older sister Elizabeth for support when breaking the news to me, thinking I might not react too well.  But I just smiled and told her that these things happen.  Over the subsequent years it became something of a running joke between us and was referenced every time we met at birthday celebrations.

Consequently, it was uppermost in my mind when I was writing the song and is even  referred to in the lyrics, so it struck me as a good idea to buy her, from the band, a wedding present of a lovely new tambourine as a way of keeping the memory of that lovely evening alive.  I can’t wait to see her playing it….  

I am most indebted to both Hans & Gary for their input into the song it has become.  Most importantly, though, we all hope that Sam and Tom enjoy hearing it.  Our distanced garage band wish them a lifetime of happiness, music and fun.  (Terry Reeves) 

Sam and Tom on a journey, channel to cross
Ceremony of joining, no history being lost
No forgotten treasures of a family and past
Dancing for enjoyment, recognition to last

Chorus:
A theatre of emotions 
Performance of dreams
Forward excitement 
Happiness it brings (Happiness it brings)

The asking of questions, the answer I do
Legal bonding connection of one into two
Marriage much more than a paper to sign
Promise to each other, feelings underlined

Chorus

Partnership giving a respect and affection
Supporting each other, every life direction
Jewel of the South, East Afton Farmhouse shines
Confirmation of your love, together combines

Chorus

Best wishes from the band, club of enjoyment 
Thinking of you both, this very special moment 
Synchronicity of music, on new tambourine 
Lifetime share forever, supporting the theme 

Chorus

This tiny island, brings the largest of dreams
Combined love and kindness always to be seen
Celebrate marriage, squeezing close real tight 
Commitment forever, on this tiny island delight

ISLAND OF DREAMS - CRIPPLE CLUB

(Written by Terry Reeves)
Terry Reeves: Vocals
Gary Reeves: Drums
Hans-Michael Albers: All other instruments, Arrangement and Production

Reaching the age of 60 can signal a difficult time in one’s future life but may also, if you so choose, be a time when there is much to which you can look forward. My wife Jo was 60 earlier this year and wasn’t wholly enamoured with the idea so, as a family, we decided to make it extra special for her. If anyone deserves to be spoilt rotten it is she, having had to put up with me for 37 years along with being the most wonderful Mother to 3 fantastic children. Our family means the world to her, especially since we were blessed with 2 beautiful grandchildren and what she loves most of all is having them gathered around her. Over the years, we have followed the Reeves’ tradition of making Christmas a time to push out the boat in right royal fashion and as soon as December begins our house is festooned with lights and decorations, creating a party atmosphere that stretches right into the early days of the New Year.
In the lyrics, you’ll find many references to moments that always bring a certain Yuletide brand of merriment. For example, our Golden Retriever, ‘Prince’ Marvin The Magnificent’, makes it his exclusive responsibility to collect Jo’s slippers as soon as her back is turned. Try as you might, he won’t let you have them back until He decides the time is right (see cover pic). For myself, I take on the combined mantle of Court Jester - without fail, the same jokes every year folks - and Dextrous Magician (hence ’Abracadabra!’). I have recently discovered a new audience for these sleights of hand (of which they never seem to tire) in the shape of said Grandchildren, Richard and Theo.
We eat and drink our fill, we laugh and we sing, for even in a world as mad as this there is always room for a month of unbridled fun, so you’ll certainly get no apology from me! If you can imagine such a thing, this year we have decided to crank things up a little to make it extra memorable for Jo, starting with this special song to celebrate all of the Christmas days she has known. She doesn’t know about it yet so let’s hope it’s the catalyst for her best one ever. For me, I’m sure they must all have been memorable, merely because Jo has been there to see them.
Sincere thanks to all our loyal, generous listeners. Hope you all have a Peaceful, Relaxing and above all Happy Christmas & New Year!
ABRACADABRA! SIXTY CHRISTMAS DAYS!
(Terry Reeves)

Celebrating Sixty Christmas Days
Sixty four to a twenty four phase
Family singing classic hit songs
Melodic vibes, help Jo party long
SIXTY CHRISTMAS DAYS

Celebrating Sixty Christmas Days
Repeat the Father Christmas craze
Dressed in red with individual style
A gift for Dear Jo and a family smile
SIXTY CHRISTMAS DAYS

Experience a life of generations
Family growing with imagination
Sixty Christmas Celebrations
Giving all our love for inspiration

Celebrating Sixty Christmas Days
Making sure the groundhog behaves
Repeating good times, fun we have
I think we’ve heard that joke before, Dad
SIXTY CHRISTMAS DAYS

Celebrating Sixty Christmas Days
Deja Vu theatre of Panto plays
Shouting out loud “it’s behind you”
Prince Marvin knows, Jo fits the shoe
SIXTY CHRISTMAS DAYS

Celebrating Sixty Christmas Days
Entertainment in grandad’s matinees
Abracadabra, another magical spell
Rich and Theo know but never tell
SIXTY CHRISTMAS DAYS
ABRACADABRA! ABRACADABRA! ABRACADABRA!
SIXTY CHRISTMAS DAYS

SIXTY CHRISTMAS DAYS - CRIPPLE CLUB

(Written by Terry Reeves)
Gary Reeves: Lead Vocal
Terry Reeves: Spoken Vocal
Hans-Michael Albers: All instruments, Arrangement & Production

Video: youtu.be/4t-H-HHpQ20?si=_reTvkVVmF73vkRi

I was walking down Mare Street, Hackney
Climbing boots and back pack on
Looking for a song of mountains
I had climbed them many times before
Challenge may help to find another door

I’ve climbed arduous N.H.S mountains
Planted flags a'top of wedlock peaks
Hung upside down on magical fountains
With my muscles springing major leaks
My heart is growing smaller by the week

Stood and pointed at hours of darkness
Winds of silence a challenge of their own
Worn out boots a testament to distance
But the misery of counting my toes alone
Sixty three feet behind me as it goes

I have loved being a man of mountains
I hope many will profit from my deeds
I will try to climb just one more mountain
Slide down the other side to save my feet
At the bottom I'll need brand new cleats

This was written over 10 years ago as a George Formby style (Google the name if you’ve never heard of him) ukulele song - a mildly amusing message to Gal to let him know that I was fully aware of the mental health difficulties he was having and that I would always be there if he needed me.

Over the years, we spoke often about the song but nothing much came of it until Gal suggested slowing the tempo and giving it a kind of shuffle beat. As it was about him, I thought he should definitely sing the lead vocal, which I think works rather well. (*Vocalist’s note: It would help if I could still sing…)

You’ll find many personal references to Gal’s life in the lyrics. At the time it was written, he was 63, literally a fatal age for men in the extended Reeves family and he wasn’t having the best of times himself, still wrestling with the grief of a marriage break-up alongside the loss of his big brother and closest friend less than a year before. But even with all of this going on (and not always out of choice) he found there were plenty more mountains to climb.

The transition of the tune from Formby to Albers is a story in itself but suffice it to say that Hans somehow managed to transform it into this rather poignant opus.  He has also made a beautiful film to accompany the piece (see link above). All in all, it testifies perfectly to the reason why Gal’s cleats are somewhat care-worn...and he still has many mountains yet to climb.. (Terry Reeves)

MOUNTAIN MAN - CRIPPLE CLUB

Once I wrote a longer description here: a love song in 7/4 ¿or 14/8?

Silvia II (Lo que siento por ti) /  Silvia II (What I feel for you)

Es de difícil clasificación  /  It is difficult to be classified
dentro de las variedades del amor  /  among all varieties of love
lo que siento por ti, lo que siento…  /  what I feel for you, what I feel …

Sólo sé que no puedo vivir sin ti,  /  I only know I can’t live without you,
no puedo ver sentido a mi vida si no estás aquí.  /  I can’t find sense to my life if you are not here.
Lo que siento por ti, lo que siento…  /  What I feel for you, what I feel …

Cuando todo va bien  /  When everything goes fine
lo que me une a ti es tu forma de ser,  /  what joins me to you is your way of being,
es muy fácil ver  /  it is very easy to see
todos tus encantos de mujer.  /  all your woman's charms.

Una idea que no puedo soportar  /  An idea that I cannot bear
es verte en brazos de otro, en otro lugar.  /  is seeing you in other one’s arms, in another place.
Lo que siento por ti, lo que siento…  /  What I feel for you, what I feel …

No puedo imaginar  /  I cannot imagine
tu voz susurrando a otro compás.  /  your voice whispering to another compass.
Lo que siento por ti, lo que siento…  /  What I feel for you, what I feel …

Cuando algo va mal,  /  When something goes wrong,
puedo contemplar tus defectos con claridad.  /  I can behold  your faults with clarity.
Cuando algo va mal,  /  When something goes wrong,
sólo quiero escapar a otro lugar.  /  only I want to escape to another place.

Grab it !!

Silvia II (Lo que siento por ti)

(Written by Terry Reeves)
Terry Reeves: Vocal
Gary Reeves: Toms
Hans Albers: All other instruments, Arrangement & Production

Photo of Max from The Albers' Archive

What to say about Maximilian?
There are so many things to be told: a lifetime of 24 years, full of special moments, joys, fears, sorrows, worries, hopes, dreams, ups, downs, progress, regress, searching, finding, winning, losing, restlessness, peace...
His life had begun with an extremely difficult birth, almost as if the world didn’t want him. They told us he had a life-threatening infection, there were probably holes in his lungs and he obviously had no kidneys. In total, his chances of surviving were exceedingly slim. However, after endless weeks of both despair and hope, he overcame the infection, the diagnosis of holes in his lungs turned out to be totally wrong and they even discovered a kidney.  Just one maybe but at least it worked perfectly.  His journey into existence had begun.
As he grew, so did the never-ending nightmare of problems, challenges and battles, until we began to wonder what could possibly happen next.  Through it all, Max took every opportunity to accumulate extreme experiences - never hiding, always   seeking.  For that, we loved him even more…and even more it broke our hearts that we couldn’t help him find what he was looking for.
But suddenly, as the Summer of 2011 dawned, his troubles seemed to merely fade away.  Was he just arriving in life, coming of age, finding his place in society?  To be honest, we hadn’t the faintest idea.  But it was abundantly clear that, having always been an underdog, that same unwelcoming world had simply started to like and respect him.  He began to realise his many talents, enjoying his job as never before, finally becoming something he had never been - happy.
Fast forward to the gorgeous Summer evening of June 28th, the eve of a 4-week vacation to which he had been looking forward so very much.  A smile on his face, he said he was in the mood to go jogging, something he loved. Sometimes, he ran and ran for ages.  He’d been gone about 3 hours, quite a long time even for him, so Carina called his phone and he answered, cheerfully telling her not to worry and assuring her he’d be home very soon.  Seconds after the call, out of the blue, he collapsed.  A pulmonary embolism.  They told us he died instantly. 
Max, we have no words for what happened, nor for the eternal gratitude we feel for every single second of your life.  We do know we will never stop loving you.”
(Hans & Carina Albers)

Small chance of survival, words from the first day
Stretching all emotions not a single which way
Asking whys and reasons, a chance to breathe long
Heartbreaking moments, hopes remained strong

Such a short distance, but a life running miles
Bring every sensation, fear to a million smiles
Experience not forgotten, continuous hug of care      
Born with fighting spirit, giving back more to share

24 years of love, no single regret
24 years of love, never to forget

Every challenge building, inner muscles to be felt
Secret ways to be happy, never question hand dealt         
Complication of thinking to find a new sentence 
Pathways to friendships, dreams of acceptance

24 years of love, no single regret
24 years of love, never to forget

A vision full of truth with strength to admire
Finding a hidden talent, past helping to aspire 
No journey of distance could prevent direction
A phone call assurance became last connection

It’s hard to find words, express feelings remaining 
Deep down inside shell, empty, sad, self-complaining 
But we will never forget our boy hero from birth
Brought love and kindness, past and future unblurred

24 years of love, no single regret
24 years of love, will never forget
24 years of love…

MAXIMILIAN - CRIPPLE CLUB  (Please Read Description)

(Music: Hans-Michael Albers, Lyrics: Terry Reeves)
Terry Reeves:  Vocals
Hans-Michael Albers: All instruments, Arrangement & Production

Today, 22nd. August 2025, marks 13 years since our dear brother Bri succumbed to the deadly combination of leukaemia and Guillain-Barré syndrome.  Watching him through 2012, unable to do anything for himself and increasingly confined to a hospital bed is something none who loved him will ever forget.  
He has never been (and never will be) forgotten, not only for the music he created but for the force of nature he most certainly was.  In 1964, our Mum & Dad bought him an entry level acoustic guitar as a Christmas present and his progress on the instrument was something to behold.  By the time he was 18, he’d bought himself a Gibson Les Paul on HP (24 payments of five pounds and thirteen shillings per month) from Selmers in Charing Cross Road, London.  He joined a band, somehow co-opting me in as lead singer at the tender age of 15 (still a schoolboy, no less) and over the ensuing ten years, formed bands of whose line-up I was always a part, graduating from singing to percussion and eventually drums.
There being guitars laying around the family home, Tel took to playing and encouraged by Bri, never stopped.  Fast forward another five years and he too started writing songs so that by ’82, the 3 of us decided to form a band (Root Division) to play them.  It’s a truly special thing to be in the same band as your brothers and recording those songs became something Tel and me still remember with an abiding nostalgia.  No wonder we still talk about those days…
This song started life as an instrumental, written by Hans and of course, it’s brilliant as is but Tel liked it so much, he asked if he could write some lyrics and a vocal melody.  Being a generous fellow, our dear friend from Hamburg said he’d love to hear what Tel had in mind.
His basic idea was to incorporate as many references as he could to Cripple Club tracks, in celebration of the firm friendship we have formed in together recording what amounts to over 50 songs.  There may be a few of you who can spot one or two…
So this is for you, Bri.  We love and miss you, sweet brother.
(Gary Reeves)

Last Summer day reasons
Hamburg always shines
Shadows of Superheroes
Another surprise will come in time
Click toward a pension
From birth but never knew
Surprised to find a blackbird
In the flames as the music grew

Touch wood for satisfaction
CC music every day
Root of strong existence 
Step off the world to feed the phrase
Another Titan message
Titanic stories past
Image of a fraying edge
Never thought hang of time would last

It’s the time, it’s the place
It’s the only performance I can show my face

Last chance for singing
Avoid resistant tide
Pleasing distant garage
Remember 4 to 3 to 5
Stars in space that linger
Soaking up the blue
Palette of sunshine yellow
Mix to green for go - but for who?

T,G & H, Two and you!

LAST SUMMER'S DAY BLUES - CRIPPLE CLUB

Reflections on like, growing old, a little sad, but I think we all share emotions of good and bad times.

I Don,t Like Tomorrow Today

Halfway Between Here and New Orleans © 
Original - Riff Beach ( RiffWerx - 2016 )
Lady Luck…..
Well, she left me out in Reno
Just one more throw
Before the red-eye home
You know I just wanna’ hop a streetcar
Or, maybe, take a shiny limousine
I’m so tired of being crammed into airplanes
That kinda’ travel just leaves me feeling mean
(Chorus)
Well, there’s sure something in living sunrise to sunset…..
But, I’m not sure exactly what it means?
And, just some thoughts on my way back to you
Halfway - between here - and New Orleans
Remember that time down on Decatur
Or, when we first met on Magazine?
We knew that sooner  - or - later
We’d end up halfway between here….
…..and New Orleans
And somewhere over the Mighty Mississippi
You know you’re right there in all my dreams
All the time we’ll spend together
Halfway between Here…. and ….. New Orleans

Sunny Beaches

Halfway Between Here and New Orleans 

Glen Granthem does his best to keep up the speed  of the lyrics and lead guitar to an american treasure...

Hot Rod Lincoln (Commander Cody) TRIBUTE COVER

In the late 1940’s in the Fulham\Hammersmith area there used to be a club that would raise money for people with disabilities. The club itself would have various activities which a large number involved live music. The name itself was created by the local people who used the club as there main place of entertainment. When my mother in law told me all about it the club and its name I was sold. It seemed to suit me and my brother for so many reasons.