Sugar, Gravy, Pleasure

An Indie Odyssey in Peterborough
A memoir set in the indie/alternative music world of the 1990’s and 2000’s in the time of Britpop and alternative rock. An underdog story about someone from a provincial town trying to succeed in the music business.

In a city once voted "Worst Place to Live in the UK," an unlikely musical revolution took place. SUGAR, GRAVY, PLEASURE tells the story of the Sugar Club, Peterborough's legendary alternative music venue that became a haven for misfits, music lovers, and anyone who didn't quite fit in elsewhere.

Pete Elderkin's memoir chronicles his journey from playing in local indie band The Pleasureheads to creating one of the UK's longest-running alternative club nights. Through the evolving musical landscapes of grunge, Britpop, and nu metal, the Sugar Club offered a safe space where people could dress how they wanted, dance how they liked, and hear music that wouldn't be played anywhere else in town.

With a colourful cast of characters including loyal doormen, eccentric DJs, amorous couples under the piano, and a mysterious regular who disappeared into the "Fenland Bermuda Triangle," this is more than just a story about music – it's a celebration of community, friendship, and the power of creating your own culture when none exists. From dodging skinheads and navigating bomb scares to hosting early performances by soon-to-be-famous bands, Elderkin captures both the chaos and the camaraderie of running an alternative club in a provincial city.

Written with humour and heart, SUGAR, GRAVY, PLEASURE is an unapologetic tribute to working-class culture, alternative music, and the magical moments that happen when like-minded people find their tribe. It's a reminder that sometimes the best nights of our lives happen not in the big cities, but in the places where we have to make our own entertainment.

"I loved it. A beautiful, big-hearted book. SUGAR, GRAVY, PLEASURE is a love letter to a lost time when music was at the centre of the universe." - Tony Parsons, music journalist and best-selling author.

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