THE ZOMBIES

GIG: The Zombies

DATE: Saturday 15th September 2012

VENUE: The Boom Boom Club, Sutton Utd FC, Gander Green Lane, Sutton

COST: £15

OUR VERDICT: Breathe in those lovely melodies

Links:

www.thezombies.net

http://feenstra.co.uk/boomboom/

We have seen The Zombies a number of times now and love each and every performance. Tonight’s gig was in the Boom Boom Club in Sutton, where it was standing room only (any chairs were reserved and not available for general use), so we took up a place near to the front of the stage. The place was packed and unbearably hot.

A great cheer went up as the band walked onto the stage and they went straight into “I Love You”. The sound was nothing short of fantastic, with a great balance between vocals and instruments. Once again Colin Blunstone’s lead vocal hit every note and sounded smooth. 

Our ears were treated to a set that included three songs from their latest album “Breathe In Breathe Out” (of which the title track is becoming a bit of a favourite of ours), songs from Odessy And Oracle, some solo material from Colin and the Argent song, “Hold Your Head Up” towards the end which was a terrific crowd pleaser.

One highlight for us was Colin singing “I Don’t Believe In Miracles”, a song penned by Argent band member Russ Ballard (so much musical connectivity here), which just hit the right spot and gives the opportunity to really appreciate Colin’s voice.

The Odessy and Oracle songs never disappoint and bring back happy memories for us when they performed the album for the first time in its entirety at Shepherds Bush back in 2008. The harmonies on “A Rose For Emily”, “I Want Her She Wants Me” and “Time of The Season” just resonated throughout the hall, sweeping over everyone with a tremendous lushness.

Guitarist Tom Toomey is a great asset to the band. His work on the acoustic side of playing with the band is just a joy. A real craftsman at work there.

“She’s Not There” sounded brilliant but we knew the show was drawing to a close. The encore ended with their fabulous rendition of the Gershwin song “Summertime” and with the heat in the hall, it felt like the highs of summer, and a cold drink with loads of ice, pressing against your neck was really needed!

Rod Argent works his magic with the keyboard

So yet another amazing gig from this band, who are still delivering great songs and melodies more than forty years after they first started out. They are looking fit, have held onto their strong voices and look happy with what they do. 

Pete Feenstra does an excellent job running the Boom Boom Club. We reckon his enthusiasm is part of the reason why so many decent bands  come here time and time again. If you get the chance you really should try and pay a visit  some time.

Loved this gig.