14 Nov 2024
This year’s homecoming festival for breakout ‘sixties band The Zombies will not be the last we see of them in St Albans, organisers have promised.
The management team behind last weekend’s Begin Here Festival have said they are already planning another event next year, although it is too early to say whether that will include a performance by the St Albans natives.
The event included panels with original band member Chris White in the Lady Chapel and Zombies Colin, Chris and Hugh in the Alban Room of the Cathedral, a signing at Empire Records, a drums workshop at The Farmer’s Boy, and The Horn hosted a Battle of the Bands, which was won by Hemel-based group Owes.
Cinda da Silva, co-manager of The Zombies, said: “From the very first time I came to St Albans many years ago and spent time wandering through the gorgeous city, I knew Zombies fans from around the globe would want to experience this glorious city where The Zombies’ music began .
“Fans came from so many corners of the globe for an extraordinary exciting and emotional weekend. I am so delighted that everyone who attended had such a great time.
“It was a particularly emotional time, especially to be back for a second time without Rod Argent, but we’re hoping that will change in the future.”
St Albans Cathedral Dean Jo Kelly-Moore read out a letter from Rod to the band during one of the events. The keyboardist suffered a stroke last July and has retired from touring.
She said: ““What a joy to welcome home to St Albans The Zombies. It is a privilege to welcome them to their Cathedral.”
Rod also sent a video message: “Thank you all for your superb playing over the years. Sorry not to be there with you but I am improving and hope to be with you in person next year.”
High Sheriff Annie Brewster introduced The Zombies panel: “I was kindly asked to introduce the afternoon panel session and immediately fell in love with these remarkable gentlemen and their St Albans story from teenage years to being maybe the longest playing rock band in the world. There was no option other than to cancel my evening arrangements to have the opportunity to hear their final concert. It was absolutely incredible and a privilege to be a part of.”
The possibility that their performance at the Eric Morecambe Centre might be their last made national news headlines.
Zombies fans Catherine Johnson and Hank Gilman travelled all the way from Yonkers, New York, for the weekend: “We came to the festival to celebrate our wedding anniversary and had no idea how incredible it would be. Not just the band members, who we knew would put on a superb performance as always, but the camaraderie of the fans and the warmth of the people of St Albans made the weekend extraordinary.
“Between meeting the Zombies along with the High Sheriff and the Dean of the Cathedral, and hanging out in the local pubs, we really felt as though we were part of the life of your charming cathedral town, if only for a few days. We are already planning a return trip and hoping the festival continues.”
Fan Alexandra Dolgosheina went to Empire Records with husband Alex for the vinyl signing and a chance to meet the band: “‘We had so much fun today! Thank you to The Zombies – what an incredible experience and a fantastic atmosphere!”
Empire Records manager Dave Burgess added: “It was wonderful to welcome the Zombies back to Empire Records as part of their Begin Here Festival this year.
“Not many bands have such a rich legacy within St Albans, so it’s truly an honour to take part in welcoming fans who travel from all over the world to come to our shop to meet their musical heroes. The band are very gracious with their fans and everyone had a great time, we look forward to seeing everyone again next year!”
Thanks to Julia Bell for her assistance in compiling this article and her support for throughout the festival.
