Saturday, February 19, 2011

Random Pics for your pleasure

Gig Night Review: KOOL & THE GANG w/guest ROY AYERS

Have you ever wanted to see a black man play a 6-minute drum solo with a towel over his face without drumsticks - backwards?

The most powerful and energetic show I have ever seen. It was as if Kiss had Metallica for a cover band- well, this wasn’t hardcore but the bass shocked through my spine and tired me out just watching these guys perform. I cannot capture the energy on film, but I got some footage to show you what it was like.

Now this is what I go out to see- on amazing show, the 2-hour line wait was worth it -what did I care anyway; I got to meet the band an hour before everyone else to get photos and my favorite album signed (plus the private after-party).

Roy Ayers was incredible, each member had the opportunity for a personal solo and the show had a lot of comedy in it too, the back up singer/percussionist went off the stage to front row and popped up yelling “Yeah!” at Roy, they even brought out a harmonica and a baby rattle as a joke. Roy Ayers did the soundtrack for “Coffee”, and Kool and the gang was on “Saturday night fever”, “Rocky”, and “GTA: Vice City” Just to name a few.

"Yeah!"

I was so close to the stage every member shook my hand, and I got my hand held during a song making every woman in the crowd jealous. There was a special towel used by everyone (Like what Elvis had), and during the sax solo the towel was placed over him for a joke and then he threw it into the stage- Guess who grabbed it? - It was like fighting for a bouquet at a large Jewish wedding!

The Highlight of the show was the incredible “Summer Madness” in its original glory – The audience stayed silent and still just to listen to every note played.
These guys are what 40-60+ years old and they are so energetic, held a note, danced the whole time and had more soul than a marathon of “Soultrain”- See that Blondie lovers- age doesn’t matter when you perform- (she is a washed up hag and needs to retire). If you ever get the time, money and opportunity go and see these guys – you are guaranteed to have a great time!

Inside the "Palace Theater"

Free water they handed out- had to look at

this box for 2 hours.

Hanging out with "Kool & The Gang"

Kool & The Gang & Roy Ayers

Presented by: Peace Music, Niche Productions & Music Max
with special guests

Peace Music, Niche Productions and Music Max are proud to present 2 time grammy winners, soul legends Kool & The Gang, as they bring their electric 12 piece stage show to Australia for the first time. With over 70 million album sales to date and a career spanning 35 years, Kool & The Gang deliver the Jungle Boogie to Australia in February 2011.
In Sydney and Melbourne ONLY, Kool & The Gang will be joined by none other than the maestro of the xylophone, soul statesman Roy Ayers and his 6 piece band. Together, Kool and Roy will take you on a fantastic voyage into the living history of soul, disco and funk.
Don’t miss this once in a life time chance to take trip back in time with two of soul music’s greatest pioneers.
PERFORMANCE DATE:
Thursday 17th February - Palace Theatre Melbourne VIC