The day Sir Horace Gentleman of The Specials met Ron Nasty of The Rutles

Some know him as "The Urban Spaceman", some know him as "The 7th Python" and to others he will always "Ron Nasty of The Rutles". In my opinion The Bonzo Dog Band are up there with the greats so I was absolutely delighted to hang out with ex Bonzo Neil Innes yesterday. Neil came to Julian Wakeling Studios in South London to record the vocals for "Flying Down To Rio" a song written by Mike Nesmith of The Monkees. Julian had recorded a demo featuring himself on guitar and piano and me doing percussion. Paul Speare recorded two amazing solos on the baritone saxaphone. Playing the bass guitar was our extra Special guest: 2-Tone legend Horace Panter!

Paul and Horace both appear on In The Studio with The Special AKA. When The Specials split up Horace worked with General Public whose keyboard player Mickey Billingham used to be in Dexys the same time as Paul.

Horace and Paul are also huge Bonzo fans who (if ever needed) can quote vast chunks from songs such as Hello Mable, Mr Apollo, and The Intro Outro.

(Above: Neil holds a copy of The Rutles All You Need Is Cash e.p) A Team Beswick & Pye video for "Flying Down To Rio" by Neil Innes & The Values featuring Horace Panter will appear on You Tube in a month or so. Horace Panter will be taking part in the BIG ONE concert in aid of The Teenage Cancer Trust at Parkdean Sandford in Dorset. Over 20 acts including Roddy "Radiation" Byers, Rhoda Dakar, Rico Rodriguez, Dennis Bovell, Winston Reedy and more will be in attendance. Tickets & accommodation are still available for more info visit: http://www.specializedcharityalbum.co.uk