The Brook, 466 Portswood Road, Portswood, Southampton SO17 3SD
Box Office Hours - 1.00pm - 7.00pm Mon - Sat (023) 8055 5366
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February 2008

Tickets On Sale When Price is Shown

Doors £

Like the fearsome, deadly denizen of the deep that shares its name, Great White knows something about survival of the fittest. The Southern California blues-rock band first took a bite out of the rock scene in 1984 and has never let go. Great White has achieved worldwide success, encompassing sales of over six million records. They received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Hard Rock Performance for the song "Once Bitten, Twice Shy", and earned a double platinum certification for the album …Twice Shy. With the release of Can't Get There From Here, the group's first release from John Kalodner's label Portrait, Great White is poised to conquer once again.

The soulful, blues-based signature sound that turned songs like "Face The Day", "Rock Me", and "Save Your Love" into international hits drives the dozen new tracks on Can't Get There From Here. According to vocalist Jack Russell, the hooks are more monstrous than ever. "It's Great White, just bigger and better." That is due, in part, to producer Jack Blades (Night Ranger, Damn Yankees), who produced the album at his Northern California studio, The Barn. The album was recorded in a mere 24 days in the spring of 1998. Jack Russell recorded additional rhythm tracks at his own 710 studios.

Collaborating with bandmates Michael Lardie and Mark Kendall, producer Blades, and longtime friend Don Dokken, Russell explored his own colorful past to pen the lyrics to the rollicking "Rollin' Stoned" and "Gone to the Dogs", an adrenalized ode to overindulgence. He draws on experience to explore relationships both good ("Saint Lorraine", "Sister Mary", "Ain't No Shame") and bad ("Loveless Age"). Yet Can't Get There From Here is not without its moments of broader social commentary, skewering religious hypocrisy in "Wooden Jesus" and poignantly giving voice to the plight of the homeless on "Hey Mister".

But whatever his subject, Russell keeps it real. "I'm not trying to be some innovative lyricist writing about things that nobody's ever heard about before," he says. "Sometimes I think that people try to be too hip lyrically, where they go beyond what other people can understand. I think it's important that we keep telling ourselves the same stories in our own way. The songs that have always been memorable to me were the ones that were simple and basic, that remind me of a situation in my life."

Great White has been churning out memorable songs since the early 80's, when Russell and Kendall joined forces and adopted the blues-based sound that went against the era's glam rock grain. Great White quickly attracted attention on the L.A. club scene. Their independently released EP Out of the Night sold 20,000 copies and got local airplay. Great White was snapped up by EMI America, which issued the eponymous Great White in 1984. That year, the band embarked on their first European tour with Whitesnake, and segued to a five month U.S. arena run with Judas Priest.

Shot in the Dark, their follow-up independent release, marked the arrival of drummer Audie Desbrow. By the time Capitol Records signed the band and reissued Shot in the Dark, keyboardist-guitarist Michael Lardie had come aboard. After the release of Shot in the Dark, Great White hit the road with Dokken and was on the verge of even bigger success. The 1987 follow-up Once Bitten…, which featured the hit tracks "Rock Me", "Lady Red Light", and "Save Your Love", went platinum. Their next album …Twice Shy, which featured the Top 5 hit "Once Bitten, Twice Shy", more than doubled that tally.

The late 80's were boom years for the band, marked by non-stop touring with some of hard rock's biggest names. Great White ended the Once Bitten… tour with a headlining show at London's Marquee Club, and returned to Europe on the Monsters of Rock tour with Kiss, Iron Maiden, and Anthrax. While promoting …Twice Shy, Great White toured with Ratt, and co-headlined a tour with Tesla. The following year, they launched a headlining tour, supported by the Michael Schenker Group and Havana Black.

The band continued into the next decade performing "House of Broken Love" on the American Music Awards in January 1990. That spring, Great White embarked on their first tour of Japan. They soon returned stateside for the Memorial Day weekend festival, dubbed The World Series of Rock, which featured Whitesnake, Skid Row, Bad English, and Hericane Alice. Great White recorded two more albums for Capitol — Hooked, which was certified gold, and Psycho City. In support of Hooked, Great White toured, completing a headline tour, a guest slot with the Scorpions, and trips to Europe and Japan. Psycho City was followed by a U.S. tour with Kiss.

Hugely respected Southampton soulsters.  Eight-piece band who live and breathe soul.

Doors £

Time to dance the night away with the band who make every gig a party night! Those that have followed the band will know that the Rufus Stone Soul Band, based in their home town of Southampton, has been around in many guises since their start in late 1984. After all this time you would expect that some of the sparkle would have gone, not a bit. They still have the same distinctive sound, which ensures that they get the maximum involvement from their audience.

Over the years they have built a loyal following and it is this support that has kept the band not only on the road but still as soulful as when they started. The music is authentic soul with selections from The Blues Brothers and The Commitments, but the bulk of the set comes from the soul greats such as Otis Redding, James Brown, Wilson Pickett, Joe Tex and many others.

During their time together there have been a number of highlights that include support to some of the top soul artists like Jimmy Ruffin, Edwin Starr, Curtis Mayfield, Geno Washington, Ben E King, and Gloria Gaynor.

If you like AC/DC and haven't checked these guys out yet, then it's about time you sorted it out!  You won't be disappointed.  

Doors £

AC/DC is a band whose appeal is huge, widespread through the generations and totally indifferent to musical fashions. Their unique formula of tight riffs and fat rhythm combines dance ability with hard-rocking anthems that flow through the blood of all who have been smitten by their cheeky-but-colossal offerings. If you want to see AC/DC, but your options are limited, then check out DIRTY DC. You will not be disappointed. All the energy and electricity of an AC/DC show along with completely faithful renditions will leave you trembling, with a smile on your face.

DIRTY DC have been playing throughout Britain and parts of Europe since 1998, and have developed the line-up and dynamic stage show that has made their current reputation seriously strong amongst AC/DC fans, whether die-hard fanatics, or just people who want a good night out. Every visual detail has been fine-tuned; from drum kit model to footwear, but most importantly, the musical delivery and stage show has an impact that does not fail to impress. DIRTY DC gives real value for money where others seem to fail. Every superlative in the book has been repeatedly used in describing the DIRTY DC show. From "I was totally amazed by your performance", "The best tribute band we have seen for ages, and we've seen a few"," The whole band are amazing, you guys are so good that you look and sound just like the real thing" and from Chris Slade himself (AC/DC drummer from 1989-94) "You have it spot on, excellent, I really enjoyed the gig." The extraordinary passion that AC/DC arouse, and which has ensured they remain one of the biggest, if not the biggest band in rock flows through the DIRTY DC performance and through their audiences. If you really want to rock and can get to a DIRTY DC gig, do not miss the chance.

Enjoy stadium rock the way it should be enjoyed - in a 600 capacity venue, six feet from the bar and ten from the stage!

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Jeff's plays The Brook on his 3rd UK tour which opened on February 2 in Glasgow as special guest with Bill Wyman's Rhythm Kings.

Derrin Nauendorf

"Excellent!" Bob Harris, Radio 2

Sunday Express 4 stars...

Just amazing!!..." 4 and a half stars, Maverick

"Derrin is one of Australias finest roots artists" Triple J

"Derrin's music moves my soul" Tony Joe White (US)

"stunning performance" BBC Radio 2 (UK)

"A sheer musical genius" Forte Mag, OZ

"power beyond the scope of the instrumental forces involved" Hi-Fi Plus Magazine. Album review 9/10 (UK)

Derrin Nauendorf is a singer/songwriter who really has built his reputation and fan base from the ground up. In the past 5 years, he has played close to 1000 shows around the globe, most of them in the UK. Renowned for his intense live shows and raw emotive music he has been invited to play in hundreds of towns and venues, has played dozens of festivals and is now a main stage act at these events. He has done all of this simply by word of mouth. No management, no publicity, nothing. Just an intense spirit for the music he plays and the people he plays for.

Derrin's ever growing fan base has now reached a point where the music industry just had to sit up and listen. "I never chased a record deal or anything like that" says Derrin, "I just always thought I will do what I do and if it is meant to be it would come, but if not, I have a great life doing what I love, playing music. That is success to me anyway. Anything else is just a bonus."

Things are changing rapidly for Derrin. Whilst selling almost 12 thousand albums (yes you read that right!) from the back of his car in that time, he has never had a commercially released album until now. "The Rattling Wheel" the new studio album, is the first that will be available to the general public and is sure to take him from being an underground phenomenon into the mainstream.

Derrin is a singer songwriter, but his music is very hard to categorise. Untamed acoustic guitar, cutting lyrics and a powerful evocative voice that sounds lived in. It is made up of many roots styles, blues, folk, Americana but is also none of these. "The Rattling Wheel" sounds like a Derrin Nauendorf album. Honest songs, delivered with raw passion, but twisted to sound unique so it can only sound like him.

In the world of manufactured artists and music business people, Derrin is one of those artists that keep your faith in music alive. Music played by humans not computers, played with passion and spirit whilst tirelessly taking it on the road to people all over the world.

Legendary Scots rockers can count none other than Guns and Roses as their fans

Doors £

When Guns & Roses first descended onto England in 1987, followed by a whirlwind of media hype and drunken brawls, they brought with them a bunch of cassettes that they would listen to while chilling in between gigs.   One such cassette that kept them entertained during their infamous stint at the London Marquee, was entitled 'Greatest Hits' - by Nazareth. There are two things which may seem odd about this fact. One, why would an American band on the verge of superstardom travel around the globe with a cassette by some old Scottish band? And two, that a bunch of hairy blokes from Dunfermline had any great hits at all.

Essential listening But take one listen to an album like Hair of the Dog or Razamanaz, and it is possible to see why many young rock bands, not just Axl's American upstarts, viewed Nazareth as essential listening. The heavy riffs, the screeching vocals (a proto-type for many a future heavy-metal singer), and the driving rhythm section, cemented Nazareth's reputation in early British rock folklore. From playing rock n' roll covers in the Dunfermline ballrooms, to touring the world with the likes of Rory Gallagher and Deep Purple, the Nazareth story really began when the band stuck two-fingers up at the music industry that threatened to hold them back during those turbulent early days, when mimicking London's hip and trendy music scene was the norm. Brightest hope And the band had the talent to back up their audaciousness. Melody Maker's 'Brightest Hope' of 1973 had hit singles with the likes of Broken Down Angel, My White Bicycle, and This Flight Tonight, to which the song's original performer Joni Mitchell is reported to have said on hearing the cover, 'Oh a little rock band, how cute!' Perhaps their most famous track however, is Love Hurts. Yep, that old Everly Brothers song, proving that Nazareth rarely did things the conventional way, in a business where covers were often frowned upon. These hits were all backed up by huge selling albums. Hair of the Dog was a massive success worldwide.

Todays Nazareth still features two origanal Members Dan McCafferty on Vocals and Pete Agnewon Bass ,plus Jimmy Murrison on Guitar and Lee Agnew on Drums.

This time the Blondie tribute are accompanied by a tribute to…free air guitar to the first person to work it out! 

Doors £

Eurythmics Tribute

 

The band have been performing live concerts to thrilled audiences for over 10 years and have earned the reputation as Europe's Leading Tribute to Blondie and Debbie Harry.

The band play regularly throughout the UK as well as to fans in Moscow, Rome, Spain, Northern and Southern Ireland. Into The Bleach are also the ONLY Blondie Tribute to be seen performing live by members of Blondie and are officially endorsed by the original band themselves. Into The Bleach are a highly popular and talented collection of musicians in their own right and play to packed venues such as Theatres, live music venues and private parties. Want to see the band in action? Why not download a video clip from the audio and video page on their web-site?

Check out quotes from members of Blondie themselves and also read what the national press, agents, venues and fans have to say about the UK's leading Blondie tribute band. "Fantastic voice... should be on Broadway.

Sam can play Debbie. Pitch Perfect."  Clem Burke "...if you haven't seen it you should check it out. Sam, great job on the new stuff!'  Kevin Patrick

Voted UK's Best Tribute Act by the BBC. About as close to the music of T-Rex as you're likely to get.  Usually sells out so get em early of you want to go. 

Doors £

To watch T.Rextasy in concert not only demands stamina, but also a healthy pair of lungs to sing along to the rocking numbers that made Bolan the leading force of Glam Rock. After the initial impact of T.Rextasy's stage presence, and the lead singer's uncanny resemblance in voice and looks to Marc Bolan, you know that you're in for an evening's worth of Bolanic hits, played to perfection and with incredible enthusiasm.

T.Rextasy play for their audience, and most of them obviously want to hear songs they know and love. Therefore, the band always include T.Rex's Top 20 hits such as: Metal Guru, Jeepster, Telegram Sam, Hot Love, Children of the Revolution, Ride a White Swan, Get it On, I Love to Boogie, New York City, The Groover, Solid Gold Easy Action, and 20th Century Boy. T.Rextasy are more than just a tribute band, they are ultimately the definitive T.Rex experience of the 21st Century.

Damn Soulful Stuff. Ian includes us on his European tour which sees him visit places as far-a-field and exotic as Bavaria, The Netherlands and Leicester!   

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Ian's ever-expanding itinerary now includes many of the major European festivals as well as regular dates at notable venues to include the internationally renowned 'Ronnie Scott's' and 'House of Live', Paris. Whilst serving his apprenticeship on the European Blues/Rock circuit Ian has shared the stage with none other than Eric Clapton, opening a show for the guitar legend in London, December 2002. He has also worked alongside other notable luminaries to include: Jeff Beck, John Mayall, Walter Trout and Peter Green. During this period Ian has gained recognition from many of the genre's biggest names. "The best band I've seen in a decade - Ian's voice, feel and guitar technique are what his contemporaries can only dream of!" WALTER TROUT – Nov 2000 Ian offers something for everyone – blues, roots, soul, gospel, funk and even a touch of jazz are all to be found in the musical melting pot of a young man fast becoming Britain's best-loved blues/roots performe. "a unique blend of blues, soul, gospel and funk . . . . . . ." THE TIMES – Oct 2002

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Mick Slacker & Co's tounge in cheek tribute act just gets better and better.

The BOG ROLLING STONES have earned a reputation as one of the most authentic sounding tribute acts around. Satisfaction's always guaranteed when these long haired boys come home to the Brook!

Their tongue in cheek humour, wigs, stripy trousers and boundless energy make them an act not to be missed. The question is.....would you let your daughter go???

'I laughed my head off!'– A Boleyn.  'Thenthational'– C Eubank.  You can't argue with reviews like that.        

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Early Beatles, late Beatles, dead Beatles, living Beatles, you get them all with the Silver Beatles.

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"...Cover bands are big business these days, but this quartet are clearly a cut above most with suits, mop-tops and jerking stage manoeuvres all in place as they blast out 'From Me To You', 'Roll Over Beethoven' and 'Please, Please Me' with note-perfect aplomb."

The Daily Telegraph.

There seems to be two different methods employed by tribute bands in copying their heroes. One is to immerse themselves totally in character, become the band. The other is to still do this, but do it with tongue very much in cheek. So how to interpret the greatest pop group of all time? The Silver Beatles go for option B, not taking themselves too seriously and this approach definitely works for them. They indulge in banter among themselves and with the crowd, making the most out of the fact that every Beatle is instantly recognisable. The first half of the gig is the young Beatles, suits and mop tops, covering all the early hits; 'Saw her standing there, Can't buy me love' among others before finishing on 'Twist and Shout'. Then it's a quick break and costume change where they miraculously transform into the older, hippie era Beatles; the period where they wrote some of their finest songs. Just point non-believers to songs like 'In my life' and 'Let it be' which show, more so than the early years, why the Beatles are still held in such esteem. Not that anyone here needed convincing. The 500 plus crowd, arms held aloft, nah-nah-nah-ing during the encore of 'Hey Jude'. Nope, no non-believers were present.

Review by Thomas Christie