Review Centre: 1970s Era Musicians & Bands

"As a music journalist, I am someone well used to hearing performances covering the whole spectrum of ability, from very talented, to no talent whatsoever; mainly on the working circuit, encountering much from the bottom end of the scale, the flaws of which seemingly pass by, or go over the heads of the audience, mediocre musical acts often gaining acceptance despite (or because of) their lack of any talent whatsoever. So, when on a random whim, I booked MAYHEM into The Old Crown, Hayes, I was pleasantly surprised to come across that jewel one constantly seeks: a light hidden in the bushel, an act of great quality. Don’t get me wrong, on the surface, MAYHEM are basically just another covers band, with certainly not much more to offer in terms of choice of material than others treading the same circuit. The difference though, is in the depth of thought in the vocal arrangements, and the attention to detail in the performance of the songs. Someone in the band has true musical knowledge. The way the vocals are arranged and used is no accident, and the music has a depth and surety that is pure class. Carol’s voice is unique, and at many points conveys rare emotion for those who can hear. The two voices are a happy accident of coincidence; Carol’s rather treble voice, Billy’s gruff baritone, both interesting voices taken in isolation, but together producing a sound that is perhaps greater than the sum of its parts. The quality of both singers shows itself also in the faultlessly correct intonation, the thrilling blend and invention of the harmonies, the search for expression in the vocals, the subtle use of the arrangements to produce expression. Most of these subtleties are of course lost on the general public, but the band still have enough battle-hardened experience and know-how to ride out any waves of indifference, and overcome the hardest heart with a friendly approach to their clientele, patiently trying out various styles and eras, constantly striving to reach their listeners, despite a kind of yearning in the music for serious recognition. Personally, I found it somewhat sad that a talented band like this has to resort to some popular (and bland) material, but one must bow to reality, and work is work. Still, the musicians didn’t just accept the status quo of this material; they always had a few surprises in store in the way they approached any song, however scraped from the bottom of the barrel. Carol’s voice sounded at its best on songs like “SUMMER OF ’69” and “I DON’T WANT TO TALK ABOUT IT”, but she shone through on harder songs too, like “LIVING ON A PRAYER” and “DON’T BRING ME DOWN”. Billy didn’t sing quite as many lead lines, but when he did, it was with a power and confidence that knew just how best to carry the melody, and the strength of harmony singing was in a different league from the average one would expect to hear in a situation like this. On “Living La Vida Loca” the dual vocals were outstanding, perhaps the most equal blend of the day, with other such highlights for me being “Don’t Stop me Now” and “I Wanna Know what Love is”. The locals however enjoyed some of the lighter material more, such as “Rockabilly Rebel”, square dancing their way through the afternoon with great whoops and hollers, playing their part in a very pleasant day in a very pleasant pub. There was a humorous moment when the lads at the bar joined in with “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’” all pointing and dancing in the manner of Tom Cruise in “Top Gun”! A vivid sight to behold, for sure! The day ended with a raucous rendition of “Rockin’ All Over The World”, the two singers showing that they could rock it with the best of them when the chips are down. Can’t wait to see this band again. (10 / 10) Andrew Staines "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

" Waipahu Apr 23 2024 1:46 PM Hey Jon, I remember seeing you in concert in '91 or '92 in Albuquerque. Of coarse we met and chatted. My son got on stage with on "Jesus Loves ya"......anyway, I recently found out the Mylon Lefevre passed away. You and BrokenHeart got me through my 80's up and down in and out of my christian life. Your songs and Mylon's concerts... who knows where I would be now if not for them. So finding you on Spotify has once again blessed me beyond measure, but I was heartbroken that "On the Run" was not included on the playlist. Do you think you can add it to Spotify. "On the Run" was clearly your best album next to "Jesus Loves ya". I am 63 now and I can still rap with you on "Aint it Pretty", I still remember. Thank you for keeping Jesus first in your life"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"As a jazz singer, Vanessa is right up there with the best of them."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"I well maried!!!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Nicky Phillips’ performance at my 50th birthday party was simply outstanding. From the moment I reached out to book her, communication was smooth, professional, and timely, making the entire process stress-free. Her melodic and relaxed folk-style voice captivated the audience, creating the perfect atmosphere for the celebration. Every guest thoroughly enjoyed her performance, with many commenting on how her music added a special touch to the event. A truly memorable musical experience!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Over the rainbow was fantastic my 4 year old loved it! Such a sweet experience. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Absolutely amazing. Everyone had a great time to celebrate my husbands 60 birthday. Everyone commented at how everything was so well organised and such an amazing voice. Thank you Lovely for making our night so special, truly professional and so much fun didnt stop dancing all night "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Thanks to the band for doing such a great gig on Saturday night (23rd) You really helped our evening to go perfectly. We had loads of comments from guests to say how good they thought you were. I only wish I could have spent more time dancing in the hall myself. I was surprised that some people left quite early but then they did have quite a distance to travel. We certainly made the right decision in choosing you to perform at our celebration and will of course be in touch for any future events. Thank you so much Nikki & Nigel Summers"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Karen has a fantastic voice and she knows how to get a party started. We all had a fantastic time and I would recommend you in a heartbeat!! Thank you"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"This was the first time I have the opportunity to go enjoy this beautiful soul who express himself through his Saxo, I can’t say other than Waooo!!! exceeded my expectations!!! Anybody who love music please go for it. Amazing. I imagine him in a large auditorium touching the hearts of his audience."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Awesome night …awesome Band!!! One of the Best....."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"At one point I was convinced that my IPod was on and turned to see it was the band playing live - that was how good they were. More than that, and what you don't get by playing the IPod, was the energy and enthusiasm of the band. It was infectious and they had the dance floor full all evening. Their music is all well- known dance music. (10 / 10)"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"The band was superb. I absolutely loved it". You've got to see these guys "."

Reply by Flashback
Thank you Maureen. We so pleased you enjoyed our music.

Rating: 9 / 10 Share this review:

"What a great performance! From the load-in to the pack-out, Susan and the team were so professional and accommodating to our requests. We do monthly events, and our crowd has already overwhelmingly asked me to rebook Speed Limit 70. They played all the best music from our generation and some songs you never hear live. I would highly recommend this band for anyone looking for a professional, well-rounded get-up and dance night."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Dr. Saxy was great! So recommend him for events. I liked how he came around to our tables and engaged us with the music "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: