Hi Everyone

It's been puzzling me for a while, but why are they always sending David Bowie's Space Oddity into outer space?  Surely any alien hearing it would think that the human race is far more artistic and creative than it actually is.  Hawkwind's Masters of the Universe would be a far better choice and would certainly get the message across that we are not to be trifled with

And after all of that, it's time to regale you all with what you can expect at the Rising Sun this weekend

On Friday we bring you THE BIG UNTIDY NIGHT OUT

The Big Untidy Night Out specialises in bringing new unusual talent into the Rising Sun.  Singers, songwriters, poets, punk outfits, ambient experimentalists, sensational cellists and demonic banjo-players, the possibilities are endless.

This time around, the Big Untidy would like to welcome you to a night with a stellar line-up. 

THUNDER ON THE LEFT are a three-piece who are creating a real buzz at the moment and now make a triumphant return to the Big Untidy with a great new album, 'National Insecurity' under their belt. The band are superb live, playing committed, urgent riff-heavy music with a political edge. See them now in a small venue before they become huge.

ORDER #227 are a favourite of the Big Untidy and comprise of three members who have gigged extensively before as members of various punk and hardcore outfits. This project is a return to the source of the music, being muscular, uncompromising but with an ethical core. Think Exploited, Crass and Ruts and you might be close.

TAPE IT SHUT are new to the Untidy. They are a an excellent Berkshire-based punk band who play with energy, humour and a dash of politics.

We're open from 8pm and it'll only cost you a paltry £5 at the door

On Saturday, the Grand National is taking place, and people will no doubt be trying to give you hot tip on a potential winner.  I have one of my own, for example, if you put a £20 bet on Sirloin Sandwich at odds of thirty three to one... you stand to lose £20 (by the way, did I ever mention that I think gambling's for mugs?)

Also on Saturday, we have a ONE MAN VARIETY SHOW (or two) from GREG CHAPMAN

Being entertained live is a wonderful feeling - especially when you are presented with a huge variety of skills and styles of performance! A variety show can be expensive to attend however, with so many acts to be paid, and so Greg Chapman launches into his one-man variety show! Physical comedy, risky juggling, stunning magic, daring escapes, contact juggling, dramatic storytelling and so much more are wrapped up in 90 minutes of fast-paced, exciting entertainment!

With a matinee show aimed at family audiences and an evening show aimed at an adult audience, we have two shows to entertain everyone!

The Matinee show for families starts at 2.30pm, with the evening show starting at 8pm.  Admission at both shows is £8 (£5 concessions) and you can also get tickets online at http://www.wegottickets.com/event/431253

That's everything for another week, just to remind you that we are, as always, at 30 Silver Street, Reading, RG1 2ST (If you pop it into your satnav or Google, we shall magically appear!)

Have a nice weekend!