Anyone who is a fan of Genesis music will know that Charterhouse, in Godalming, was the place it all started back in the 60s, led at that time by music legend Peter Gabriel.
G2 – one of the UK’s leading Genesis tribute bands – are staging a two-night return to Charterhouse on April 13thand 14th, all in aid of the local children’s hospice charity, Shooting Star CHASE. The band last appeared at Charterhouse in 2007 and 2008, where they raised over £20,000 in ticket profits and via an auction of Genesis memorabilia.
G2’s lead guitar, Chris Cawte, commented, “The two gigs were extraordinary; to have people travel the length and breadth of the country to experience their favourite music in such a setting, to raise money for kids is very moving. In 35 years of gigging, I can't remember playing to such emotion and enthusiasm, in such a beautiful environment, for such a good cause.”
Vanessa Lanham-Day is the event manager. “The guys put on the most amazing show. People are often cynical about tribute bands but I’ve been a Genesis fan since my teens and I tell you these guys are almost as good as the real deal. The band has a serious following and we already have people booked in from all over the UK and even some from abroad. Several have already planned to make a weekend of it and came both nights – the atmosphere is always electric.”
The band are hopeful that guitar-hero Steve Hackett (Genesis lead guitar 1971 – 1977) will attend again this year; Chris Cawte commented, “Meeting Steve Hackett last time was a lifelong ambition. To hear him say he thought the show was ‘knockout’ and that the band performed with a real passion and energy that he admired, was a great recognition of all our hard work.”
Specialists in early to mid-era Genesis music, this time around the band are adding an additional treat to Premium ticket holders, where they will get access to an ‘unplugged’ session, along with a Q&A with the band, before the main show.
Premium tickets for Saturday 14th have already sold out, and there are just a few left for Friday 13th. Standard tickets cost £28 and are available for both nights; they can be bought online at www.g2online.co.uk.
