NEW-LOOK BUNGALOW PLEDGES TO HELP

The Bungalow is under new management and opens after a massive refurb tonight.

Tommy McGrory, 64, and Alan McEwan, 52, have taken on the venue in a bid to keep live music local.

They have promised to plough profits back into programme for homegrown players and vow they will always have a home at the bar.

Tommy was a regular at the original pub and says he is proud to carry on its iconic name.

He said: “I saw my first punk band at the Bungalow.

“I walked in randomly and asked who was in and was instantly hooked.

“It was one of those lifechanging moments.

“From then on, I was lucky enough to see loads of bands there, from great local names to big touring acts.

“Every week there would be a big crowd in to see whoever was playing. It was amazing to see a wee pub in Paisley punching well above its weight.

“It was run by and for people with a real passion for music.

“The original place meant a lot to the people who went there and I hope the folk who come along to see our new venture will feel just the same.

“Glasgow has King Tuts, Liverpool has the Cavern Club and London has Ronnie Scotts.

“It’ll be a big ask to rub shoulders with that lot but that is what we are going to do.”

Tommy and Alan are key players in the town’s arts scene.

The former runs music charity the Loud ‘n’ Proud rock and pop school.

His business partner owns nearby Brick Lane Studios.

They have splashed out on a new stage and state-of-the art PA system.

The bar has been overhauled, while new seating and tables have been installed.

The pair plan to transform the business from private venture to public ownership.

They say this will safeguard the future of the venue.

It will also create a space run by the community.

Musicians will be offered courses and workshops, while those interested in work offstage can learn the ropes.

Bosses hope to launch training sessions for sound t e c h n i c i a n s, lighting, promotion and design.

Tommy insists the model can breathe new life into the venue, at a time when others are closing.

He added: “We’ve been taking advice from other small venues doing it successfully.

“Any profit made will go back into music.

“We want to give everybody a chance to get up on the stage.

“Our focus will be on bringing in people who play their own music.

“Every big band started out at a Bungalow somewhere.

“Tonight and tomorrow will be our big nights. But we hope to open every night within the coming months.

“There’s a place here from everybody – from rock bands,