The Hollies - Concert Review

Dartford Orchard, , 27^th March 1999 - by Jan Tidiman

As a long time Hollies fan, I can only marvel at how they continue to maintain their high standards. The concert at The Orchard, Dartford, on Saturday 27^th was terrific. Every year I think they cannot be as good as last time, but they always are. The new lighting effects are great, setting the mood exactly right. They sang two songs not familiar to me - After the Fox (which my husband liked very much) and Running through the Night, which had me scouring the internet as soon as we got home so I could buy it. This particularly appealed to me as I am a closet country music fan.

My only complaint was they didn't sing Purple Rain, which has always been a favourite of mine - it proves The Hollies are not just another 60's group - they are musicians. And what about Ian - the first time we saw him perform with the Hollies he wouldn't have said boo to a goose. If the others don't watch out he will become the star of the show. Tony Hicks again demonstrated his virtuosity on the banjo in the prelude to Stop, Stop, Stop (has he ever thought of doing George Formby on 'Stars in Their Eyes!). A very nice spot in the show is Alan Coates singing Butterfly, a time to sit back and relax, but as always the highlight is Allan's rendition of The Air That I Breathe and He Ain't Heavy.

Roll on the next tour.

Jan

Back to Review Index