John Hackett and John Mitchell head up this weekend's new prog night in Reading

First Night Of The Progs
(Image credit: Press)

The John Hackett Band and local boy John Mitchell head up the first of a new quarterly prog evening in Reading that starts this Saturday at The Butler Music venue.

The First Night Of The Progs evening is the opening night of the somewhat confusingly titled Last Night Of The Progs, a new venture from Anne-Claire Rallo, founder member of Nine Skies, founder of Bad Dog Promotions PR and the creative force behind new prog outfit Frant1c.

"We are thrilled to announce the launch of Last Night of the Progs, our inaugural quarterly prog rock night at The Butler, one of Reading’s premier music venues," says Rallo. "Our aim is to showcase the most exciting and innovative prog rock bands from the UK circuit, creating a vibrant community for all lovers of the genre.

"Join us for an unforgettable night filled with exceptional music and a stunning lineup that you won't want to miss. We can't wait to see you there!"

As well as The John Hackett Band and John Mitchell, performing an acoustic set, chill-out prog rockers Hoopy Frood are also on the bill. Tickets are £15 in advance and £18 on the door, with doors opening at 7pm.

Get tickets.

First Night Of The Progs

(Image credit: Press)
Jerry Ewing

Writer and broadcaster Jerry Ewing is the Editor of Prog Magazine which he founded for Future Publishing in 2009. He grew up in Sydney and began his writing career in London for Metal Forces magazine in 1989. He has since written for Metal Hammer, Maxim, Vox, Stuff and Bizarre magazines, among others. He created and edited Classic Rock Magazine for Dennis Publishing in 1998 and is the author of a variety of books on both music and sport, including Wonderous Stories; A Journey Through The Landscape Of Progressive Rock.