Rockin For Bob Charity Concert

The Majestic Suite, Mexborough 6th May 2005

This concert's title is all about a rock fan called Bob who passed away in 1992. Bob adored animals as much as his beloved rock music and since his very untimely death at the age of 39, his friend, the Mexborough photographer, Duncan Mangham has organised some fantastic Rockin' For Bob Charity concerts in honour of his friend. All the artists give their services free and at great expense to themselves. The proceeds always go to animal sanctuaries as this is what Bob would wish for.

A veteran Rockin' For Bob band is Red Herring, the excellent original material band with the hugely talented personnel of Ian Hearfield, Dave Samuels, and Howard Evans. Red Herring played a selection of songs from the "I Found it in Howard's Garage" and "Red" CD's. The sound coming from this power trio was unbelievable considering they are a three piece band. The songs were very intelligent but highly listenable mini-epics culminating in the brilliant composition ...and at a most apt time, "Rockin' For Bob". Like the rest of the set, this song was a tremendous musical piece and had me singing along loudly to the chorus! Absolutely enlightening, but during the rendition of Rockin' For Bob, waves of shivers ran down my spine! Awesome!

The guys retired to well deserved applause then the Dearne Valley sensation, Laconic came to the stage with their super talented leader, Jenny Bailey. What a girl she is, like a female Jamie Callum, bouncing with so much energy and natural ability. Jenny's voice is truly wonderful, with a soulful nasal tone, she sings straight from the heart with a female angst Avril Lavigne could only dream about. Playing my favourite "Jenny" song "Rapture Falling" I was thrilled to hear it played live. The superb band, dominated by the strong melodic bass lines of Michael Law and percussionist Lee Emmett, the band is completed by the subtle guitar of Sime White. Jenny also plays piano and acoustic guitar. I was particularly impressed by her rhythmic and melodic piano playing towards the end of the set. Top drawer band!

Mr Frank White needs no introduction. This veteran rock and roll/ blues singer guitarist had assembled a fine band around him including John Riley on drums and Mr Joel White on the keys. This band had to be good to follow the two previous bands and they certainly kept up the high quality. Joel White is a world class keyboard player and be it a rock and roll piano or a down and dirty Hammond/Leslie sound, Joel plays with consummate ease. Throughout the set Joel's playing was strongly evident. Franks rasping but soulful vocals cut the air while his hot-railed Fender complimented his voice with a unique tone through an altered Fender amp. This is Franks sound. Highlights of the set included "Money Honey" (Jesse Stone) and a cracking version of Booker T's "Green Onions", not forgetting "Mohair Sam" and Rosco Gordon's "Just a little Bit" ,"Mystery Train" and the Pete Brown composition "Sunshine of your Love". Fantastic!

The Majestic Suite was packed to the rafters and was well subscribed to by fans and band members alike. Well done to everyone concerned, but mostly to Duncan Mangham, sponsored by Ben Bailey Homes. If ever a pat on the back was deserved, then this is it.

Steve Lally