The Hollies - Concert Review

Brighton, Theatre Royal, 8^th October 2000 - by Helen Macdonald

The 8th October 2000 marked the first date on The Hollies Autumn 2000 tour and Carl Wayne's first appearance on a major set of dates.

The Theatre Royal, Brighton is warm and cosy, and there was a jovial atmosphere front of house. As I took my seat in the packed auditorium it was clear that the Fan Club had bagged the first few rows. I felt for Carl, knowing how difficult it was going to be for him to stand up in front of long established Hollies fans and prove himself. Deep down I knew he had nothing to worry about, though, and I was proved right as soon as he took to the stage. He came on last, to the strains of the "Bladerunner" theme and the audience gave him a hearty welcome.

The set began with a great rendition of "I'm Alive" with the audience clapping their hands, and the first half of the set flew by, including many of the Hollies favourites. One highlight for me was the acoustic spot which included fabulous versions of "Bus Stop" and the well-loved Move classic "Flowers in the Rain" It is great that the band are allowing Carl to showcase the numbers that have brought him success in the past and this section gave Alan Coates and Tony Hicks the chance to display their talents on guitar and backing vocals; the sound was fresh and simple.

The second highlight of the first half was "Soldier Song." Carl really put his all into this one; the emotion depicted reflected his past success as an actor and the lighting effects matched the mood, brooding and wistful. Bob Dylan's classic "Blowing in the Wind" closed the first half and the band left the stage to much appreciative noise!

The second half was a little longer and just as enjoyable. More Hollies classics, an effective collaboration with Buddy Holly and another Move number for good measure, "Blackberry Way", which encouraged healthy audience participation! Carl's unique voice sounded heavenly on "The Air that I Breathe" and the inevitable encore "He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother." "Long Cool Woman", gave Carl the chance to show what a truly terrific rock singer and showman he is, and had the audience on its feet, as did "Tiger Feet", sung brilliantly by Ray Stiles. The final numbers brought the house down, and the band returned to the stage for numerous bows.

Carl is singing better than ever, and the good-natured banter going on with Tony and the other guys on stage suggests that great relationships are developing already. I am new to The Hollies and was incredibly impressed with the show; they are all fantastic singers and players, the songs are cracking, and it is a professional, polished production.

I am so glad that Carl has joined them and hope their "marriage" is a long one.

Helen Macdonald - Long standing Carl Wayne fan - check out her website here www.carlwayne.co.uk

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