The Hollies - Concert Review

Portsmouth Guildhall, 29^th November 1997 - by Ann & Barbara

From the moment The Hollies walked on stage, it was evident from the warmth of the welcome that they received that this audience was not going to let them go without a fight and tonight was going to be a great show.

Although the hall itself is rather large and barnlike, the quality of sound was rich and all-enveloping, filling the theatre and drawing the whole audience together. The concert was the usual mix of songs both known and less familiar, but it was The Hollies own hits which were most popular. When ‘Bus Stop’ (In the original style), was introduced by Tony, there were roars of approval from the crowd which almost raised the roof!

A diversion for those of us who go to concerts regularly has been watching Ian Parker develop his role as an active member of the group……..from simply moving around the stage with his accordion during ‘We’re Through’, progressing to a walkabout’ through the stalls, he has now taken to adding props. First a woolly hat, then an handkerchief tied over his face - it beggars the question, “what has he got in store for us next?” Perhaps a Tin cup & monkey???

Tony’s announcement that this tour’s new brown suit is to be retired to ‘civvies’ was greeted by applause from some sections of the audience and with great relief by some members of the group, though this viewpoint is not shared by all.

As a performance it was what we have come to expect from The Hollies - vibrant, enthusiastic, energetic and very much enjoyed by everyone. Fabulous.

We are now looking forward to more of the same in the Spring of ’98.

Ann & Barbara

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