Review Centre: 2000s Era Musicians & Bands

"You are such a good saxophonist. I enjoyed myself all the time whenever you play at any of our events. I love it and you are really Dr saxy. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"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:

"Well what can I say! What a fantastic evening made extra special by you guys. You were amazing and I have had so many people say how much they enjoyed you. You totally made the evening and created such a good atmosphere. Thank you very much for learning Run, that was a great moment and capturing on camera for us. I would highly recommend you to anyone and I hope to see you again in the future. Professional, entertaining and super talented Smooth Criminals. Thank you from all of Pop Chorus "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"What an amazing band! Brass Monkees played at our wedding recently and definitely made it a night to remember! The band are all very talented, great fun and certainly know how the get the crowd going! A great range of songs, sure to make you dance! The band don't just stay on their stage/performance area. They come out into guests and play amongst the crowd. Absolutely loved the moment 3 of them came and played their instruments around me and my husband then went behind the bar. So many of our guests commented how amazing Brass Monkees are and how they really did make the wedding! Highly recommended for any event!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Superb violinist! She made our wedding day even more special with her amazing music! Highly recommended"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"This brilliant pianist and singer played on our wedding reception and wedding breakfast. I highly recommend them for any event. A wide range of songs. Something for everyone. Liaised with me regarding our choices of music. In between sets Punctual even though they had to travel."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"We had a great day and the band was a significant part of that enjoyment. We managed to feed and water 177 people from 3pm onward and we really appreciated the way you were prepared to fit in with our arrangements and set up and then hang around. We are so pleased we went for a live band rather than a disco. We hate background music and it was great to have such a wide play list. It really made a big difference. In 40 years I have never seen my husband dance other than the odd twirl when pushed ….& those could be counted on one hand!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Sean was really great. We asked for 60’s and 70’s music and as most of our guests from that period we wanted to be able talk and hear each other, as well as hear the music. Sean judged it perfectly and created just the right atmosphere to help make a very memorable evening. We can highly recommend him. "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Amazing performer and great song choices. Really elevates the ambience here. It was a special treat this Sunday "

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Excellent music and great song track. Would love to come again"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Jeff was an incredible performer, but more than that, he was extremely communicative and responsive. He came well prepared for the event and was very easy to work with. I would hire him again in a heartbeat!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Encrypted Love Indra has been performing at Plugged In Switched On for several years now and she is one of the most accomplished and talented musicians I have had the pleasure of working with. She is very professional and organised and always gets to the venue in good time for her performance, sound check or whatever. She has a way of making any song her own and breathing new life into them usually with an Encrypted Love twist in the tail. She has a very natural way with audiences and soon has them eating out of her hand. In short Indra is a professional artist / entertainer of the highest caliber and I do not hesitate to recommend her to any person or organisation that might have need of her services."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Fabulous band, the singers vocal range is amazing. The band collectively are really talented and kept us fully entertained for the whole time. I even managed to get my dance averse husband on the floor. Who knew........wonders exist, just like this band."

Reply by New Blanca Band
Hi Bev, thanks for a lovely review. We've learnt many more dance numbers so hopefully he'll stay dancing for longer next time.

Rating: 9 / 10 Share this review:

"Thank you for enhancing my daughter's wedding with your performance. Everyone was delighted."

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review:

"Awesome! Any and every type of music he plays sounds amazing! Definitely will look into Dr.Saxy for our next event!!"

Rating: 10 / 10 Share this review: