Adelaide Music Club – Monday 1st Sept 2025
Greg Hart – “Me and My Guise”
On Monday 1st Sept a near capacity audience of members and visitors at the Adelaide Music Club were entertained in spectacular fashion by the outstandingly talented local performer Greg Hart.
Backing Greg was a line-up of nine well-drilled and technically polished musicians.
The overall result was a performance that had the crowd engaged and enjoying the show from the very start. This is not a surprising outcome as Greg has a reputation as being one of Adelaide’s (and arguably one of Australia’s) best entertainers.
Greg’s “Me and My Guise” show covered a wide range of male vocal performers from Michael Bublé to Tom Jones, Billy Joel, Roy Orbison, Neil Diamond, The Beatles, Elvis….and J.O.K. Not limited to just vocals, he easily connected with the crowd with his light repartee and also delighted them by exhibiting his instrumental skill performing The Shadows “Apache” on Fender guitar.
In moving seamlessly from the timeless crowd pleaser “Delilah” through Farnham’s tender “Burn for You” to the majestic heights of the power ballad “ Macarthur Park” Greg easily demonstrated the quality, strength and versatility of his voice – a voice that also displayed the emotional nuances needed for the soft ballads such as Roy Orbison’s (“Crying”) and Billy Joel’s (“Just The Way You Are”). The passionately delivered and Elvis inspired acapella version of “How Great Thou Art” where Greg was supported by vocal harmonies from his band was one of the highlights of the show.
The pace of the concert was nicely tweaked when the band with lead trumpet featuring, performed Herb Alpert’s arrangement of a “Taste of Honey.” The sax solo in “Just the Way You Are” from another of the players in the four-piece brass line gave the audience a tantalising glimpse of the individual instrumental virtuosity within Greg’s backing ensemble.
Greg’s finale was a stirring and uplifting styling of “Can’t Help Falling in Love.”
The audience was very enthusiastic in expressing its appreciation of the “blue-chip” quality of Greg Hart’s (and his team’s) performance.
It truly was a great night’s entertainment.
Adelaide Music Club – Monday 4th August 2025
The Sherrahs
Monday August 4th was a cold Adelaide winter’s night, but it was warm inside at the Grand Ballroom for the Adelaide Music Club’s monthly dinner and show which featured The Sherrahs, a South Australian Family Harmony Band who have been performing together for over 30 years.
They gave us their Classic Harmony Hits Show featuring aselection of songs from country and folk genres which had theaudience tapping their feet and singing along. Something for everyone with fond memories of The Seekers, The Everley Brothers, The Eagles, Simon and Garfunkel, The Chicks and The Bee Gees, Crosby Stills and Nash and Shania Twain to name a few.
It was a “win-win” night with the band saying how much they enjoyed playing for the audience and the enjoyment was certainly mutual, indeed symbiotic (google it).
Monday 1st September 2025 – Greg Hart – Me and My Guise Show”
Greg’s full backing band joins him on stage to perform a magic night of nostalgia and fantastic hits from all these artists think of the big names in music… Frank Sinatra, Michael Bublé, John Lennon, Roy Orbison, Barry Gibb, Tom Jones, Elvis Presley, Johnny O’Keefe….and many more. Can one person sing all these artists? Greg Hart certainly can!
Many artists have inspired Greg to become the performer he is today and “Me and My Guise” will take you through that very journey, examining his musical influences and why he does what he does. This show has something for everyone!
Book now online at adelaidemusicclub.com.au.
Adelaide Music Club – Monday 7th July 2025
Burt in a Skirt
Adelaide’s wintry weather did not deter 200 plus members and friends of the Adelaide Music Club attending the monthly dinner and show on Monday June 7th at the Grand Ballroom on Tapley’s Hill Road at Fulham Gardens.
Entertainment for the night was Burt in a Skirt, a five-piece outfit paying tribute to the music of Maestro Burt Bacharach and other great tunesmiths of his generation. Songs included those made famous by Dionne Warwick, Dusty Springfield, Sandie Shaw, Karen Carpenter and other great female artists interpreted by vocalist Janine Saundercock.
With old familiar songs on the programme the audience enjoyed the night singing along and taking to the dance floor.
Coming up on Monday 4th August are The Sherrahs, a South Australian Family Harmony Band who have been performing together for over 30 years.
A selection of classic harmony hits from country and folk genres will have your feet tapping. Something for everyone. Book now online at adelaidemusicclub.com.au.
Adelaide Music Club – Monday 5th May 2025
The Patricks
The Adelaide Music Club membership continues to grow. There are now more than 200 members. A crowd of over 200 members ands guests sang and danced the night away at our monthly get together on Monday May 5th. We were entertained by local band The Patricks (not an Irish band). If you have not been entertained by this band before you are missing out.
This fun, energetic and interactive band play hits from the 60s, 70s and 80s and more. Only minutes into their first number they had the dance floor packed and that’s how it stayed for the evening.
Those not up dancing on the floor were clapping along and singing in their seats.
You can check out their details on their facebook page.
Adelaide Music Club
Adelaide Music Club – Monday 7th April 2025
“SWINGIN” with Will Metzer and Henry Olonga
More than 200 members and friends of the Adelaide Music Club packed the Grand Ballroom on Tapley’s Hill Road at Fulham Gardens on Monday night 7th April for the monthly dinner and show featuring Will Metzer and Henry Olonga and the “Swinging Hot Band”.
A talented group of 5 local musicians playing drums, bongos, bass guitar, lead guitar and trumpet together with singer/flautist Verity Skye provided the backing for Will Metzer (keyboard and vocals) and Henry Olonga (vocals), a competitor in The Voice 2019. Henry is celebrating his recent Australian citizenship. Born In Zambia the family moved to Zimbabwe where he rose to fame as a cricketer. Fast bowling was his talent, and he claims to have bowled Ricky Ponting (former Australian captain) out. Henry says singing is the second innings of his life.
Henry and Will paid homage to some of the world’s greatest crooners such as Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Michael Buble and Sammy Davis Jnr. Interspersed with some of Henry’s Dad Jokes!
If you missed our April show come along on Monday May 6th and enjoy The Patrick’s featuring music of the 60s, 70s and 80s. Check out the website for more details.
Adelaide Music Club
Adelaide Music Club – Monday 3rd March 2025
John O’Dea
At the Club’s March event the audience was treated to a wonderfully entertaining and masterful performance by South Australian folk/country influenced singer and “yarn” teller John O’Dea.
One measure of a performer’s ability is how convincingly he/she connects with the audience. On this night John had us all in “the palm of his hand.”
He had us laughing heartily at his humorous asides/quips. He had us nodding in melancholy and sometimes hilarious agreement with his observations of life.
With his own song creations, he easily pulled many a heart string with his lyrical descriptions of life’s experiences from the city and “on the land” and of youngsters and the more “maturely aged.”
His “Ram in The Dam” song – a request from one of our members – was a clear example of John’s ability to create a piece that would have an audience “in stitches’ whether they be country-based or not.
As an accomplished and very experienced, award-winning entertainer John was easily able to manage the mood in the room. His onstage persona “oozed” sincerity and approachability. The audience was easily convinced that he is a genuinely good bloke.
Although he has an excellent repertoire of his own material, John demonstrated his versatility by also presenting several well-known hits from others (e.g., Billy Joel’s “Piano Man,” Harry Chapin’s “Circle”) but everybody’s favourite was his exceptionally well-voiced version of “Sweet Caroline.”
In summary a brilliant night’s entertainment – Thank you, John O’Dea!
Mel Tickle (6th March 2025)
Music Coordinator
Adelaide Music Club
Adelaide Music Club – Monday 3rd February 2025
“Chesterfield Brass”
The Adelaide Music Club opened its 2025 year of monthly events with Chesterfield Brass (CB) a local eleven-piece band, comprising of music educators/graduates and other very experienced performers. With such an array of talent it was highly likely that the Club was in for a “wow” of a night…….and that it was!
From the very first song CB connected with the audience, with band leader/vocals/percussionist, Peter Kostiw moving through the crowd, and having them singing and swaying along to “My Girl.”
CB’s very accomplished (in dancing as well!) four-piece brass section of Peter Moore -Tenor Sax, Ruby Mensforth -Trombone, Ena Auricht-Faulks – Baritone Sax and Triniti Canini -Trumpet, were underpinned by a tight rhythm section comprising Tony Mikajewski – Bass/Vocals, Stephen Millar – Drums/Vocals and Andrew Cheek – Guitar. The work of the rhythm team was astutely augmented by the keyboards of Paul Chester and Jessica Paech.
Overall, that instrumentation allowed the front-line vocal team of the vibrant female lead, Susan Shillabeer, the smooth tones of Jessica Paech and the character voice of Paul Kostiw to display their class and versatility both individually and as a combination in presenting a varied vocal sound in strength and range.
CB moved easily as well-drilled unit, as well as very entertainingly through their wide and varied repertoire. A broad song range that covered soul hits (e.g., “Signed Sealed Delivered”), the Latin rhythms of (“Sway,” “Save the Last Dance for Me”) through to the party/disco beats of Earth Wind and Fire’s “September” and Manilow’s “Copacabana.”
To make the night complete CB dropped in a Tom Jones Medley, a modicum of Neil Diamond’s Hot August Night and a crowd thrilling couple of classic ABBA favourites. There were a bunch of other numbers performed as well but I have run out of space and superlatives.
The music selection was perfect for the night. CB performed with outstanding expertise, enthusiasm and engaging moves (again a special mention to the brass section!)
Musical Director (and lead guitar) Andrew Cheek is responsible for “charting” (pardon the pun) the arrangements for CB’s sound – and he has done an excellent job.
An eleven-piece band is a difficult size to wrangle for rehearsals and gigs (in a small market like Adelaide) but they have been doing it since 1997 with many of the team being in the set up for many years – and it shows.
At the end of the night I, and others in the committee had many audience members complement us on the selection of the band and ask that we book them again.
Chesterfield Brass are a technically proficient, well organised and in combination a very “tight” outfit. Its front-line vocal team presentation has a smooth connection with the audience with its easy and adroit professionalism.
The support team of Dave Richards (Sound Engineer) and
Ken Haebich (Lighting Technician, Stage Assistant) had the tough job of managing the big band sound in the room. That was a challenge given the range and number of instruments. On balance mostly that challenge was successful.
In summary the Chesterfield Brass performance for us confirmed it as one of, if not THE BEST bands of its type in Adelaide.
Mel Tickle (6th Feb 2025)
Music Coordinator
Adelaide Music Club
Adelaide Music Club – Monday 2nd December 2024
“The Atlantic Street Band”
It was “The Atlantic Street Band” (ASB) that provided all the musical fun and lively entertainment for the Adelaide Music Club’s December event – its final for 2024.
Before the music even started the festive season mood was boosted by the gorgeous, beautifully sparkling, Christmas table centre pieces and smaller individual decorations that were placed on each table. All of them – the pieces and decorations had been hand-made by Trina Sabine (with help from her devoted husband/assistant David – AMC Pres) . These festive table garlands also acted as a glittering and well-deserved compliment to the polished performance by the ASB.
The Club strives to offer a wide variety of entertainment, and so in this case the ASB came to perform its up-tempo New Orleans jazz spiced vocal and instrumental repertoire of well-known foot tapping favourites. Having variety does mean that some style and pieces aren’t to everyone’s liking but when the music is so obviously well performed by highly talented professional musicians, the infectious rhythms, well-known lyrics and outright instrumental proficiency coupled with good natured showmanship and banter it was obvious that even some of the most dubious musical hearts in the audience were captured by the performance quality.
The ASB was well led by the affable Chris Weber (Trumpet, vocals, and MC), he was joined in showmanship by the gifted and engagingly boisterous Jason Hammond (Keys, jazz banjo and vocals), two young and brilliant emerging talents in Tash Stevens (double bass) and Thomas Vos (Trombone and backing vocals) and it was all held together by rhythm section mentor Adelaide’s “solid as a rock” – “drummer for all seasons” and “best quality, adaptable swing-man in town” …….the ubiquitous John Stephens – P.S. and as all associated with SA’s music industry know, John’s a good bloke as well!.
The ASB kicked off their performance with Irving Berlin’s 1926 composition “Blue Skies”. Chris told us it is known as one of the most recorded songs in history (as we all know, even Willy Nelson has had a go)
Next up and in acknowledgment of the festive season Jason Hammond took the smooth lead vocal in Mel Torme’s “Christmas Song” and then in a quick change of mood and instrument and a display of amazing versatility he moved to jazz banjo and easily got the audience involved with a ripping rendition of “When Your Smiling”.
The spread of quality musicianship in ASB was obvious from the first song early in the evening, but after using a few minutes to “warm into the show” 21-year-old Tash Stevens (double bass) and then Thomas Vos (trombone) performed some outstanding improvisation breaks throughout the night. To their eternal credit Chris and Jason, as music educators have been “instrumental” (pardon the pun) in providing learning and performance pathways for young musicians. They and John Stephens also had their time in the improvisation limelight and showed the crowd just how accomplished they all are as experienced and skilful performers.
As so on and on, the evening progressed with all the members of ASB having the opportunity of displaying their immense musical prowess all within the framework of classic foot-tappers such as “Putting on the Ritz” Don’t Get Around Much Anymore” “When the Saints…”
The whole music selection was either the well-known upbeat jazz influenced favourites, or songs we know as seasonal friends such as “Rudoph the Red etc……” and “Jingle Bells.”
The ASB played all these favourites with a lively modern feel.
A special off-the-cuff request from an AMC member for “Cherry Pink and Apple Blossom White” was handled brilliantly by the ASB with Chris taking on trumpet lead. The ability of some bands to fulfill song requests can be problematic – but that was not the case on Monday night – after all talented and highly skilled professionals were entertaining us. Weren’t we privileged? It was a terrific end to the AMC 2024 year!
Mel Tickle (5th Dec 2024)
2024 Music Coordinator
Adelaide Music Club
Adelaide Music Club – Monday 4th November 2024
MAMBO ITALIANO
“Mambo Italiano” (MI) performed at our Club’s November event allowing our club to enjoy a delightful portion of the 2024 Adelaide Italian Festival.
MI was led by the engagingly smooth and accomplished performance professionalism of Tony Genovese. Tony’s obvious experience in “working a room” significantly raised the enjoyment of all the attendees. He was ably assisted by Michelle on vocals, a two-piece accordion team and a drummer holding the combo together.
The music was of course planned to have a full Italian flavour. Our first taste was having “Happy Birthday” sung in Italian to one our older members – what a thrill that was!
The night started with the Dean Martin song “On an Evening in Roma” and finished fittingly with “Arrivederci Roma” a piece that was sung by Mario Lanza in the film “the Seven Hills of Rome.” Over the night the MI team had us enthusiastically singing (and dancing) to a wide variety of well know Italian songs. Early in the first set a couple of lesser-known pieces slowed the pace of the show a bit, but from that point everything moved ahead quickly.
Tony and the accordionists came off stage several times and moved easily amongst the crowd adding to the homely and personable feel of the show.
This writer – and the crowd were extraordinarily impressed and entertained by the wide variety of music offered. For example – we heard – “That’s Amore”, “Que Sera, Sera”, “Volare”, “It’s Now or Never”, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and then with true audience entertainment in mind – MI moved into “Una Paloma Blanca” then followed by having all the crowd joining in to “Shaddap You Face” Then after all that (phew!) all were encouraged to crush any unnecessary spiders that may have appeared on the dance floor by performing a Tarantella – followed quickly by a conga line as soon as the opening bass and drum riff of “Love Is In the Air” was heard.
If all of that wasn’t enough to display the musical versality of MI then their performance of Laura Branigan’s 1982 hit “Gloria”, the second set opener “You to Me Are Everything” a 1976 British soul hit by the Real Thing, and then have us jiving to a 60’s rock’n’roll number by Italian songstress Mina sealed the deal!
In summary it was a VERY entertaining program presented by experienced and dedicated performers.
Mel Tickle (5th Nov 2024)
2024 Music Coordinator
Adelaide Music Club
Adelaide Music Club – Monday 14th October 2024
“Walk Right Back” – duo – John Forrest and Bill Semple
“Walk Right Back” (WRB) performed at our Club’s October event carrying with them the accolade of being voted the Best Vocal Duo for 2023 by the South Australian music industry body “Support Act”.
Judging from the reaction of our audience last night, John and Bill’s superbly entertaining performance would have had generated votes for them to claim the 2024 award as well!
It was no surprise that WRB opened the show with their version of the Everley Brothers “Walk Right Back” and in doing so displayed the tight two-part harmony for which, they (and the Everley’s) are so renowned.
In modern live performances, disciplined and consistently good vocal harmonic work is a rare commodity – except for WRB where they achieved and maintained a polished harmonic combination for the entire duration of the performance.
WRB’s repertoire for the night was varied and upbeat and had more than enough range to have the dance floor full and to also satisfy those who preferred to just listen.
John and Bill presented music from The Everley Brothers, Bee Gees, Buddy Holly, The Mavericks, Elvis, The Travelling Wilburys, with a special nod to those who have been impacted by a dry winter with Eddie Rabbitt’s “I Love a Rainy Night” and tunes from (Ms) Gene Pitney, Bobby Vee, CCR……… and quite a few others ….including the ubiquitous, and very popular “Achy Breaky Heart” by Billy Ray Cyrus.
In between songs the boys generated a warm verbal connection with the audience despite some of their verbal interactions being lost to some who were further from the stage in the room due to audio issues. This issue was by no means “fatal” to the quality of their act, and indeed is a problem that impacts many performers.
In summary – “Walk Right Back” – excellent performers with a very entertaining repertoire, immensely enjoyed by the Adelaide Music Club.
Mel Tickle (15th Oct 2024)
2024 Music Coordinator
Adelaide Music Club
Adelaide Music Club – Monday 2nd September 2024
Groove Brothers and Soul Sister – “A Groovy Night in “Nam” – The Early Years”
On Monday 2nd September, the Adelaide Music Club continued its long established and successful custom of presenting a very entertaining program drawn from of wide range of musical acts – from one person performers to combos to large ensembles.
The September meeting was a huge night for the Club, with an audience of over three hundred and twenty members and guests, being able to enjoy the 2024 Fringe show success “A Groovy Night in “Nam” – The Early Years”.
A selection of popular music from the years of 1965 to 1968 – delivered in the context of a troupe of performers entertaining Aussie troops in “Nam” formed the substance of the show and it was presented radiantly by a ten-person ensemble made up of the vocal trio “Groove Brothers and Soul Sister”, the “Half Back Line Band”, Ladybirds Go-Go girls and Emcee/DJ Sgt Maj Paul Bock. A well performed instrumental version of A Whiter Shade of Pale” by the “Half Back Line” cleverly moved the pre-show mood towards the era.
To set the scene at the opening, a special guest, retired LTCOL Bill Denny AM BM, himself a Vietnam veteran and RSL Ambassador spoke about the War and its impact on the Australian diggers which then led into a short audio-visual overview of the many Aussie entertainers that toured. Then it was into the show proper!
The first half’s musical opener was a rousing version of the Four Tops “I Can’t Help Myself” and it got everyone dancing and singing along immediately ……. but a few songs into the show the class of the performance really stood out, when the lead female voice of GB&SS, Belinda Millikan stunned the audience with a superb and passionate solo reading of Cilla Black’s “You’re My World” Then as if things couldn’t get any better – Lewis Murray had the crowd (singing) in “the palm of his hands” with a swinging laid back version of “How Sweet It Is”
The show was adroitly and hilariously pulled together by the engaging “out-there” personality and likeable baritone voice of DJ/MC Paul Bock – his rendition of “Sadie” to start the second half was a fun-filled joy. The crowd loved his interaction with the Go-Go girls Vicky and Sonia (and so did he!). The Go-Go girls costuming, and dance steps perfectly matched the era and provided a colourful, exuberant, and visually exciting compliment to the music.
The second half touched on more music from British artists that were popular at the time – The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and then as always, the crowd favourite “These Boots Are Made for Walkin'” By this time there was truly little room left on the dance floor.
Also weaved into the show’s song list were Aussie hits of the time like “She’s So Fine”, She’s My Baby, Poison Ivy etc
Closing out the performance were two very well-known Australian classics that reflected on the mostly sad Vietnam War experience of our diggers – the first being “I Was Only 19” which was performed by Mel Tickle in the nuanced style and voice of a damaged vet rather than a vocal song piece – a presentation that visibly “touched” the audience, the other being “Khe Sanh” sung by Lewis Murray and Belinda Millikan who generated all the passion in performance that the lyric demanded and more…….
It really was one of those nights when (I guess as expected) the audience knew every song and so were always singing along – just like the troops on a break at a show in “Nam” Also just like the shows in “Nam” there were a couple of minor hiccups on stage which given the upbeat feel of the show didn’t distract from the overall performance nor from the very generous applause that the audience delivered to the performers at the end of the show.
Adelaide Music Club – Monday 5th August 2024
Rosanne Hosking, Chris McPhee (Baldwin Cinema II electronic organ) and special guest Mark Coates
At our August event members and guests were treated to a quality of entertainment that would be more usually experienced when attending a big show at our own Festival Theatre/Her Majesty’s or any other of the professional stages around Australia (and even internationally)!
Monday night’s audience had the benefit of able to enjoy this superb performance in the intimate atmosphere of the Grand Ballroom – a room whose elegant and sophisticated “chandeliered” demeanour provided the perfect back drop for the excellence of the performance.
At the outset we were told that this was Rosanne’s first appearance since she had (only just the previous day) recovered from an upper respiratory infection and laryngitis. To ensure our show went ahead without (pardon the pun) a “hiccup” she invited Mark Coates along to share the vocal load. Rosanne’s caring decision ensured that we had an even more enjoyable and varied program.
Rosanne, Chris, and Mark worked well with the intimate feel of the venue – they all connected with the audience – sharing anecdotes and stories about the songs and their professional experiences – with the utmost professionalism, humour, and humility.
Now to the music –
Chris McPhee (with quite some effort) had his 1974 Baldwin Cinema II electronic organ transported to and set up on stage so he could both accompany the vocalists and perform as a solo instrumentalist. Chris easily demonstrated his skill and breadth of his solo repertoire – ranging from “itsy bitsy teensy weensy yellow polka”, the David Rose classic “The Stripper” , “Swinging Shepherd blues” through to a group of wonderful pieces by one of the world’s most well-known organists Klaus Wunderlich – all interspersed with interesting and very personable little chats about his own instrument, the “organ” industry in SA – as it was – and is now – and warm acknowledgement other well-known organists.
Rosanne Hosking opened the show with “Lullaby of Broadway” and “Pure Imagination” – that piece from the 1971 film Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory – her overall vocal quality, range and delivery left no doubt that if her voice was fully recovered, we were in for a fantastic night. Luckily, we the audience (and hopefully Rosanne herself) were unable to discern any vocal problems over the evening. Rosie moved easily from stage to popular music to opera. To close the first half, she moved to an even higher gear in class (was that even possible?) by presenting the classic “Non, je ne regrette rien” (No Regrets) sung in French with all the chutzpah of Edith Piaf. Moving into the pop realm Rosie and Mark combined beautifully to present “I Honestly Love You” and Rosie offered us a very tender heartfelt “reading” of John Farnham’s – “Please Don’t Ask Me” – that one might have drawn more than a couple of tears from the audience. Rosanne ended the show with the “Cabaret” dramatic driver “May be This Time” Thankfully her voice lasted for us – what an inspiring performance from highly-talented professional singer.
Mark Coates – his last-minute call up for the show was a major win for the audience! His finely tuned professional performance of major hits such as “The Music of the Night” from the Phantom of the Opera, “Some Enchanted Evening” from South Pacific and a strong and passionate delivery of the Sinatra anthem “My Way” provided a strong musical compliment and variation to the overall program for the night.
Unfortunately, space and time doesn’t permit me to comment all the songs and performances from this wonderful show. In my opinion this range of performers was undoubtably excellent value for the members and visitors who attended.
From an overall Club perspective this night confirms the very entertaining and varied program that over many years has been – and will continue to be presented to members.
Mel Tickle (7th Aug 2024)
2024 Music Coordinator
Adelaide Music Club
Adelaide Music Club – Monday 1st July 2024
Samantha Vanua “The Lady of Song”
At our Monday 1st July Adelaide Music Club event we were privileged to be entertained by vocalist Samantha Vanua and a backing band led by one of Adelaide’s most in demand percussionists John Stephens.
John’s band was made up of well know instrumentalists – Peter Merchant on keyboard, Geoff Miller on bass (and backing vocals) and Sylvan (Schmoe) Elhay on sax.
The combination of Samantha, and John’s group presented us with a very classy and experienced ensemble….and a very classy performance is what we got!
Samantha’s outstanding vocal range and her smoothly confident audience engagement and presentation, coupled with the instrumental virtuosity of the band helped the audience feel as though they were sitting through a performance at a premium level New York or London Club.
From dance tunes to popular ballads Samantha’s repertoire had something for everyone. We were treated to a wonderfully sensitive version of Barbara Streisand’s “the Way We Were”, enjoyed the thrilling Latin rhythms of the Sergio Mendes hit “Mas Que Nada”, delighted in the beautifully constructed sing-along medley of favourites from “The Carpenters” and joyfully accepted the offer to join in with the “ra da da da da”’s of Chanson d ’Amour…. we even had something from the Little River Band!
For this reviewer however, the highlight of the show was Samantha sitting down at the keyboard and singing some of the songs of Olivia Newton-John. It is that point where her exceptional vocal talent was made even more obvious to us mere mortals!
The show was brought to a perfect musical conclusion with Donna Summers’ disco hit “Last Dance”
Samantha and the band often perform a more jazz influenced show and so with the song list on our specific night there were some minor challenges in arrangements and onstage coordination with the band – but those issues were very small and were clearly overshadowed ….simply by the sheer class of the performers.
To pinch a bit of a quote from Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons …….OH WHAT A NIGHT!!
Mel Tickle (3rd July 2024)
2024 Music Coordinator
Adelaide Music Club
“Feelin’ Groovy” – The Songs of Simon and Garfunkel
Adelaide Music Club – Monday 3rd June 2024
Last Monday night the duo of Harry Baulderstone (vocals and guitar) and Marcus Ryan (vocals, percussion, and guitar) and with sometime support on keyboard by Vic Orio presented “Feelin’ Groovy” – a very entertaining show presenting a selection of most of the major hits of Simon and Garfunkel.
To reproduce a convincing Simon and Garfunkel musical style requires the reproduction of accurate and consistent harmonies, the replication of a sensitive and nuanced treatment of Paul Simon’s incisive lyrics, and all of that underpinned by a solid – mostly guitar and as needed, occasional keyboard accompaniment.
Well, Harry, Marcus and Vic achieved all of that and more – much to the delight of Club’s audience of members and guests.
In addition to the outstanding quality of the music, Harry and Marcus had a relaxed and easy connection between themselves, and the crowd, which was a perfect fit for the “feel” of the show.
Overall, it was an exceptional performance! – but there were many outstanding pieces that deserve more than even this enthusiastic level of approbation, and these are just some of them:
- Performance of “Hey Schoolgirl” the first ever song recorded (1957) by S&G
- The exceptional guitar riff and vocal work by Harry in “Mrs Robinson”
- The recognition by Harry and Marcus of the Everley Brothers as being an influence on S&G and including a couple the EB’s best songs in their “Feelin’ Good” show.
- Harry and Marcus’s extremely sensitive treatment of “The Boxer”
- The standing ovation drawn from the audience by the delicate vocal “reading” by Marcus of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” – complimented, wonderfully on keyboard by Vic Oria.
At the finale many stood to provide vigorous applause and offer calls for more(!)
And “more,” we shall consider, having from Harry, Marcus, and Vic …next time in full band format.
Mel Tickle (6th June 2024)
2024 Music Coordinator
Adelaide Music Club
Greg Hart
Most music club nights are enjoyable, an odd one is perhaps not quite to our personal taste, and then there is the one that is more than memorable. Last month we had a standing ovation for Antonio and Kate Villano. This month, we had one of Australia’s most accomplished solo artists who had a crowd of 220 in the palm of his hand. Greg Hart is Adelaide’s best kept secret. Some of our members decided not to come because “we don’t know him” – well, you have missed an amazing show! His impersonations were extraordinary and so enjoyable. Old Man River started and I was looking for Paul Robeson with that huge deep rich voice. Neil Diamond, Roy Orbison, Tom Jones and a whole lot more popped in and out through the night giving everybody total enjoyment. Even Frank Spencer gave us a laugh. Greg’s patter and repartee was non-stop and entertaining. He is one of Adelaide’s busiest artists and you will find him at a venue near you. He will be back at the Adelaide Music Club next year without a doubt.
David Sabine – President AMC
Antonio and Kate Villano
A standing ovation for Antonio and Kate Villano described the electric atmosphere at the Adelaide Music Club (April 8th) at the Grand Ballroom in a cabaret setting. From a huge repertoire that they have, Antonio and Kate performed some singalong favourites, some good old pop songs and some of the great stage and theatre classics. Bocelli songs, Pavarotti’s Nessun Dorma and Bring Him Home from Les Miserable, oh and a bit of Neil Diamond as well, highlighted the amazing Italian tenor voice, one of the most popular in Australia. Club members were not aware that Adelaide has it’s own Etta James from the 50’s and 60’s. Not only Etta but Dusty Springfield, Lesley Gore and more plus some beautiful harmony when the two voices combined. Adelaide is lucky to have the best duo in Australia who can sing any Genre, any artist and any era. The Adelaide Music Club was lucky to have their talents at our Club night and the members agreed, it was one of the most memorable of Club nights which has led to a demand for more. There will be!!
The Borderers
Monday 4th March saw the nostalgic farewell of one of Adelaide’s iconic bands – and – The Borderers. They have just celebrated their 30th anniversary as has the Adelaide Music Club. We are 30 on the 7th March with the AMC being launched back in 1994 at the Leg Trap Hotel. We had booked the Borderers last year and suddenly they retired in the middle of February at The Gov but the show must go on and Alex and Jim performed many of their old Celtic songs bringing back so many memories. It was a privilege to have The Borderers perform their very last show at the AMC as a special friendship has developed with them. We wish them well as they pursue new directions. There are people around the world that will miss their talent, their voices and miss two lovely people.
Pulse Band
A great opening for our 2024 season. Nearly 200 members, newbies and visitors gathered at the Grand Ballroom, had a tasty dinner and then danced the night away to the sound of The Pulse Band with the oldies we all know and love. We are all enthused for the coming year.
Farenheit 451 Review
President David Sabine welcomed over 220 Members and guests.
The Grand Ballroom looked beautiful with its billowing bunting. beautifully decorated for Christmas, complemented by the creative talents of Trina Sabine with baubles, tinsel, wreaths and sheaves of red, green and silver from the front foyer to the back door. The 23 table centre pieces were elegant and white lights covered every presentation. It was a lovely sight. Every piece was hand made.
Such a fitting finale to the 2023 Adelaide Music Club was led by Fahrenheit 451 and lead singer Roger Ball performing with the vigour and sound quality that marked their versatility with Rock and Roll from 1967 when they began. It was a night for dancing and singing along with the band. Their renditions of popular artists including Elvis, Neil Diamond, Paul Anka, The Beatles, The Righteous Brothers, Gerry and the Pacemakers, Chubby Checker were among the features of the night.
Of course, Mimi and Donato excelled with their 2 course dinner – pork, turkey and a trio of sweets which l am told did not have one calorie.
It was a special Christmas spirit which swept across a very happy crowd of members and visitors. If only we could celebrate Christmas every day of the year. This was a special one!
Elton John Tribute Review
November 6th Club night was one to remember – A Tribute to Elton John and the piano men.
Brenton Edgecombe was Elton John – maybe better than Elton John – and sang his way from Elton’s first song when Brenton was 11 years old, to the classic Crocodile Rock.
Brenton at the big white grand piano, was beautifully accompanied by his wife Jacqui who vocalised the harmonies and wowed us with the deep rich sound of her cello. Brenton described her cello as the Symphony orchestra which actually accompanied Elton in his Melbourne concert. Brenton’s ad libs were spontaneous and crowd pleasing. He encouraged our members to sing along in various songs which they did with gusto – much arm waving and clapping supported the show.
You would not find two nicer entertainers anywhere on the Australian stage as they complete almost 25 years performing together. The Club was pleased to host their night.
David Sabine
President
West Torrens Concert Band
Members and visitors to the Adelaide Music Club were treated by 32 musicians of the West Torrens Brass Concert Band. The program offered a wide variety of popular classics that clearly demonstrated the range of talent and instruments within the Band. The blend of young aspiring musicians and also those with experience moulded together with the direction of the Conductors, Andrew and John. A standing ovation from the audience was a fitting completion to the evening.
Groove Brothers and Soul Sisters September 2023 Performance
Our September Club night was the best since the pandemic. 240 members and guests clapped, danced and sang to the Groove Brothers and Soul Sister who have been around for 12 years but sounding better and better. Belinda Millikan (easily identified by being the prettiest of the three) was a favourite with her Nancy Sinatra, Leslie Gore and a superb rendition of Aretha Franklin’s “Natural Woman”. Mr Smooth – Lewis Murray – gave us some great Presley, Neil Diamond and many more. He worked hard and kept us well entertained and the Godfather of Groove – Mel Tickle who has the best bongos in town, was superb with his impersonation of Satchmo’s “It’s a Wonderful World”. A great range of songs from the 60’s to the 90’s gave our Club a great night of entertainment. After many member requests, GB and SS will be back.
Philip Williams
Music Coordinator
BackBeat 60 August 2023 Performance
Over 200 members and visitors to the Adelaide Music Club were treated to a range of the classics of the 60’s from Back Beat 60 on the July 3 Music Night.
Leading guitarist Danny Stevens was an ideal stand in for Hank B Marvin with many of the Shadows greatest hits as he was backed on Rhythm guitar by Geoff Perkins, Bass guitar, Mick Ridge and drums, Bruce Greenshields.
Maurice Mills, lead singer performing Cliff’s original hits was ably supported in harmony and throughout the repertoire of songs for the evening and patrons taking the opportunity to dance.
Philip Williams
Music Coordinator
Me’n Me Mates Adelaide Music Club in it’s June 5 Performance
Members and guests were fully entertained by the versatility of Chris, Eddie, Miranda and Jake of Me’n Me Mates as they performed their unique combination of Australiana music with characteristic dramatic renditions of Banjo Patterson poetry by Chris and Miranda.
Chris with his guitar and mouth organ accompaniment, Miranda on guitar, Jake with his banjo and Eddie on base, with all performing individually or in harmony, presented a magnificent range of well known as well as their original Australian themed songs.
Eddie on base sang along with the theme from “Red Dog” accompanied by his faithful Bluey of course. Opportunities for the audience to dance were welcomed and enjoyed.
Philip Williams
(Music Coordinator)
Adelaide’s Pulse Band ignites the Adelaide Music Club in it’s May 1 Performance
170 Members and guests clearly enjoyed the outstanding versatility demonstrated in the vocal performance of Tony Genovese and Daniella Jerkic with his accomplished Pulse Band instrumentalists and backing of Ken Cooke, Nige Jackson and Frank Fragomeni.
We were all treated to a complete variety of Classic Hits from the 50’s through to the 80’s including renditions of Elvis, Dean Martin, Doris Day, Tina Turner, The Beatles, Monkees, Shadows, Johnny O’Keefe, Daddy Cool, Roy Orbison just to name a few.
The audience response was especially highlighted in their spontaneous response to flood the dance floor throughout the evening.
Philip Williams
(Music Coordinator)
Antonio & Kate Villano – Performance 2022
Always a favourite at the Adelaide Music Club
Adelaide based Italian born Pop Classical singer Antonio Villano and New Zealand Soul Stress Kate Villano have been stunning Audiences with their incredible diversity, versatility & spine tingling harmonies for over 25 years both together and as individual performers. They perform locally, nationally and internationally and have had the pleasure of performing on the same billing as Jose Carreras and Elaine Paige, Marina Prior, David Hobson and Anthony Warlow just to name a few….