GRAHAM ‘ROCKABILLY REBEL’ FENTON - DOWN UNDER by Christine@ www.vivienofholloway.com
What a fantastic night when UK Rock star Graham Fenton, original lead singer of ‘Matchbox’ hit the stage at the Whitehorse Club to a sold out show. Matchbox were the 1st band to break into the charts with Rock n Roll in the 80’s opening the doors for other bands such as the Stray Cats.
Invited to visit Melbourne by Christine at Vivien Of Holloway Australia it was an exciting moment for all Australian RnR fans when the fabulous ‘Itchy Fingers’ introduced Graham, who had number one chart hits with Rockabilly Rebel, Buzz Buzz and Midnight Dynamos to name a few. Right away he let fly with an appropriate ‘Carl Perkins MATCHBOX’ from which the band took their name, (with the approval of Carl), followed by some well known and more obscure standards mixed with an occasional Matchbox hit song from his chart topping albums.
The audience was captivated, bopping around in front of the stage; Graham jumped off stage and joined in at one point while Itchy Fingers played a very impressive and professional accompaniment, much to the delight of Graham. The band even had a very authentic ‘Matchbox’ sound, proving their versatility and how hard they had worked to make the show a success.
Combined with some good old Pommie humour this was the ultimate RnR show. Finishing with a rendition of Rockabilly Rebel, perfectly executed by both Graham and Itchy Fingers, the crowd called for an encore and were treated to a medley of Old Black Joe, Whole Lotta Shakin, Little Queenie, and Ain’t Got a Thing followed by an explosive, crowd thrilling, ‘Rockabilly Rebel’ grand finale.
After the show Graham spent a couple of hours signing his new CD ‘Raging Heart’ which is receiving excellent reviews in the UK Rock magazine and any RnR fan would be proud to have in their collection. This is still available through Christine at VIVIEN OF HOLLOWAY by phoning 0417144169.
Fortunately since this was such a flying visit Graham has agreed to return next year to do more dates Australia wide. Keep an eye on www.vivienofholloway.com clicking on the Australian Flag for show details.
Re: GRAHAM ‘ROCKABILLY REBEL’ FENTON - DOWN UNDER by Christine@ www.vivienofholloway.
We in Perth were also fortunate enough to see the great Graham Fenton thanks to Christine. A fantastic show and the guy has an incredible voice. The backing band that was put together here did a top job. The man is a true gentleman and as we were getting our CD signed he had plenty of time for a chat. Everyone I spoke to the next night said they come away from the show feeling that they had been to one of the best.
Bookmarks