THE DIFFERENCE

Like many musicians Dougie Vickers started drumming in his school jazz band in the late fifties in Newcastle upon Tyne progressing to playing semi-professionally in what became a well known Newcastle band in the sixties, Invaders Rhythm Group, doing covers of popular music of the day.  Serving a tough apprenticeship throughout the North East of England playing in CIU Clubs, town halls, dance halls,nightclubs and  culminating in an appearance at The City Hall, Newcastle Upon Tyne in front of 3,000 people.

They progressed to being resident pop band in the Latin American lounge of the famous club A’GoGo (Newcastle’s answer to the Cavern!!!), with Eric Burdon and Alan Price (The Animals) resident in the Jazz lounge.  Dougie’s music was much influenced by the visiting artists, John Mayall with Eric Clapton, Alex Harvey’s Blues Band, John Lee Hooker, Spencer Davis, Graham Bond organisation with Ginger Baker to name but a few.

He moved on to play blues (his first love) for two years with “Vermen” before retiring to follow a career in the Motor Industry.

After a long gap of more years than he would like to mention (as young as Mick Jagger!!) he was asked to join other musicians in Holcombe Rogus to play in a variety concert in the village Hall June 2004.  This he did and after the event they formed a band, Last Orders, which now plays regularly in the area.  Jason Baxter played at his daughter’s wedding later in the month and, Doug had a “Sit in” and plays with  Jason Baxter’s band when required.

After a short stint with one of the South West’s re-formed bands,”The Sonset”he was invited to form a new band,”The Difference”with well known local guitarist Rod Allcock,former Sonset singer Chris Abrahams and well known local bassist Rich Maydon.When available they are joined by Sony recording artist Bob Corrick.