Readers may remember that I was not impressed when I visied the Fly earlier in the year; As it was Simona's birthday and both Maleficent and Ophelia Torah were performing I decided to give the venue another visit. AS I was expecting little, it proved to be better than expected. The adition of a video screen upstairs showing the bands downstairs has clearly demonstrated the inadaquacy of the glorified xmas tree lights deployed on the bit of floor which comprises the stage. To allow the video camera some light they now leave on the room lights; this gives just about enough light to take photographs.

Ophelia Torah lost their drummer in the spring and this is their first gig back. The new drummer does a fine job. They are on a bit late and due to an 'incident' at Holland Park there are no central line trains so I have brought the car. I manage to make a 33cl bottle of beer last 2 hours.

There is a disappointing lack of light at the Notting Hill Arts Club and there seem to be some sound problems but is good to see the band back in action.

Also enjoyed Little Death

For such a prestigious venue the lighting is appalling. Most people have better lighting in their toilet. Anyway if you look carefully you can just about make out the band on stage by the light from the bar at the back. Fortunately Emma has donned a lightish dress for the occasion and does stand out a little from the black background. Oh how I dream of seeing Ophelia Torah in a venue with lights.

The sound at the Dublin Castle tends to be a bit loud, and only escaped by a retreat to the main pub bar. On a plus note you can get proper Courage Best in the pub bar at only £2.50 a pint.

Having donned my earplugs I was able to enjoy a typically rousing gig.

My first visit to the Fly in New Oxford Street. I found it rather small. Strange led lighting which seemed to be randomly programmed - glorified christmas lights, maybe they are energy efficient (ie cheap). Anyway grossly inadequate for a serious venue. On a plus note you can get a decent drink at the bar.

Anyway Ophelia Torah gave another stirring performance.

We decided to travel light and just take a compact camera to see Ophelia Torah. As we got such good pics of Ophelia Torah last time and due to the intimacy of the venue its really all or nothing when it comes to taking decent photos. Anyway that explains the expressionist style of the photos.

The band were as good as usual and lets hope they get a few more gigs together soon. PS don't expect them to sound like they do on myspace; expect them to sound how they look in our photos.