(Neill
Solomon)
A captivating show of marvellous music.
(Review by Keith Millar)
Impresario Roland Stansell has surpassed
his own high standards of musical entertainment with his latest offering at the
Rhumbelow Theatre at Tina’s Hotel in Kloof. Joining Rhumbelow regulars, The
Reals, on stage are two legendary South African music luminaries,
singer/songwriter Neill Solomon and percussionist extraordinaire Dan Chiorboli,
in a captivating show of marvellous music.
(Dan Chiorboli)
Back on stage in their home town for the
first time in 20 years the long-time friends and music collaborators - along
with The Reals – perform songs from their early days through to their latest
venture, The Liberation Project. There are also a few covers thrown in for good
measure.
Solomon and Chiorboli have, individually
and in partnership, had enormously successful and eventful careers in the music
industry. From Solomon’s early solo career through to groups such The Uptown
Rhythm Dogs, The Passengers and The Uptown Rhythm Collective, through to many
projects in theatre, film and television.
Their latest collaboration, The Liberation
Project, features 34 songs over three CD’s with 69 musicians and recorded in 17
studios all over the world. The theme of the project is the liberation
struggles in South Africa, Italy and Cuba.
The union of these two seasoned and gifted
musicians with The Reals produces a show of some rare and magical musical
moments.
With his distinctive style Solomon is
responsible for most of the vocals in the show while Chiorboli has brought
along his usual eclectic selection of percussion instruments. He plays
everything from a tin can to the bongo drums.
The Reals also don’t disappoint. Barry
Thompson is given plenty of opportunities to display his virtuosity on guitar
while Dawn Selby shows her usual mastery of the keyboards. Bassist Jason Andrew
and drummer Mali Sewell also have their moments to shine. Also part of the show
on flute and sax is Paul Seaman.
This show, rather different to the usual
tribute shows on offer at this venue, is atmospheric, dramatic and quite
gripping. It is a collection of superb musicians performing at their best.
While maybe a tad under-rehearsed, the show has the feeling of a jam session in
a smoky night club.
Songs that can be heard include Magic Man, The Same Old Blues, Eight Steps
To Fly, The Dock Of The Bay, I Can Hear My Papa Calling, Biko, Foxy Lady,
Moondance and Take Me To The River.
There are also excellent supporting visuals
displayed on a big screen to the left of the stage.
While this show is a must for all lovers of
intelligent, creative rock/blues music, it should be checked out by all
aspiring musicians to see how it should be done.
Neill Solomon & Dan Chiorboli together
with The Reals can be seen at the Rhumbelow Theatre at Tina’s Hotel in
Beryldene Road, Kloof, from Friday to Sunday, August 17 to 19, 2018. Shows are
at 20h00 and at 14h00 on Sunday. (The theatre venue opens 60 minutes before
show for drinks)
Tickets R150 (R130 pensioners) and tables
seat 6. (No alcohol or food may be brought on to the premises). Tickets are
cash or EFT only. Secure parking is available. Booking is through Computicket
or contact Roland (also for large group booking discounts of 20 or more) on 082
499 8636 or email: roland@stansell.za.net or visit http://events.durbantheatre.com/ -
Keith Millar
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