The Hollies - Concert Review

Brentwood Leisure Centre , 8^th November 1997 - by Jenny Hagon

I felt a little lost in my seat, all the familiar faces were front and second row while I was five rows back and bang in the middle of the centre block, good view of Allan., but all I could think of was how on earth would I get to the front for 'rock 'n' roll time'. Suddenly, the lights dimmed and the music started. The Hollies appeared to loud applause, first lan, then Ray, Bobby and Alan(Coates), quickly followed by Tony and then finally Allan (Clarke).

First song of the evening was 'Stay' (slow version), followed swiftly by 'Here I Go Again', 'Yes I Will', and one of my favourites, 'I Can't Let Go'. When it came to 'Sandy', Alan Coates showed his talents with a somewhat soothing guitar solo. Ian Parker's turn to shine with his key board skills came next with 'Draggin' My Heels'.

Allan & Tony then ribbed each other about the clothes they were wearing, Tony saying that Allan was in 'yet another new outfit' and Allan telling us that Tony, was once again wearing 'that same suit'!

Allan then introduced his solo 'If I Were The Priest' which was written, but never recorded, by Bruce Springsteen. The stage darkened and the spotlight fell. Allan, standing alone with his guitar, explained how he loved the song but had no idea of what the words were about. The audience listened in complete silence, erupting into rapturous applause and cheers of approval at the end.

Next came 'Helplessly Hoping', but not sang at centre mike this time. Then came Coatsies' solo - 'Butterfly'. Again the stage darkened, a centre spot for Coatsie, with several red back lights strobing the stage. Once more the audience listened in complete silence and followed with loud applause as the lights dimmed. For those of you who have not heard these solos yet, I can confidently say, you are in for a real treat when you do.

The stage was left in darkness while the other guys got back to their positions. This didn't quite work for me, but then, what do I know?

More Hollies favourites followed, then Tony's foot stomping, hand clapping, head bobbing, 'When I'm Dead & Gone' finished the first half

I didn't feel like pushing my way to the bar so I sat in my seat patiently waiting for the twenty minutes or so to pass by and desperately trying to avoid the ice creams. It was then that it struck me - Is it possible that Tony Hicks has been cloned - The real, grey haired, Tony could be sitting at home with his feet up while he sends out his 30 year old versions to take his place. Well it would explain the 'same suit'!!!!!

The music started and I was jolted back from my wanderings - 'Stop in the Name of Love', 'Jennifer Eccles' and other old favourites followed.

Then, 'Were Through', flashing lights and a mighty drum intro from Bobby made for a dramatic start. lan Parker, who I might add gets bolder with every performance, bravely, with only his accordion for back up, ventured into the darkness of the stalls. Cameras flashed as the audience took advantage of this rare close up.

Chat time again - Tony told everyone that Allan & Graham used to perform in Flintstone outfits, then Tony, unable to hide his amusement looked at Allan for confirmation. Allan speaking very softly replied 'You are so...', and then faded out. It sounded like the next word was going to begin with 'L' but I couldn't be certain. Anyway, I'm sure Allan knew what he meant!

A selection of Buddy Holly songs followed, including 'Rave On' with Ray's unmistakable base vocals, and of course, 'Peggy Sue Got Married' - Allan explained how this song, with some wizardry from Ray Stiles and lan Parker, resulted in their version being sung by Buddy Holly and The Hollies.

Then 'Look Through Any Window', started slowly for the first verses but as Bobby and lan returned to their positions, the tempo quickened with Tony playing a brilliant guitar solo.

'Carrie Anne' followed, then 'Stop Stop Stop', 'The Air That I Breath', building to a powerful 'He Ain't Heavy' - This appeared to be the end but the crowd wanted 'More'.

Allan mentioned Brian Stubbles who he had noticed in the second row. He told us that some years ago Brian had been unable to make the shows through illness and that Noel Edmunds 'fixed it' for the Hollies to play in Brian's back garden. The spotlight fell on Brian and the audience applauded.

Then 'Rock 'n' Roll time' - 'Great Balls of Fire', 'Lets Dance' and 'Long Cool Woman' got the audience on their feet. Cheers and whistles filled the theatre, it was, most definitely, another great night, another great show.

Jenny Hagon

Back to Review Index