Northern Exchange is a relatively new name on the local live music circuit this being only their 5th gig since forming last year, but one look at the line-up suggested an interesting night ahead and I for one couldn't wait to hear what they had to offer. Joining Mr Cockerill was lead singer Bex (formerly of Rebecca & The Riffs), Dave Usher (of Mitchell), Mel Oliver (yes THE Mel Oliver) and Monroe's drummer Pete Watson.  Opening with Fleetwood Mac's "Don't Stop", the lively Bex was the main focus of attention as she belted out the vocals in stocking feet. The band's overall sound was solid and very full and I found Mel Oliver's keyboard work particularly impressive as they skipped through a varied set of crowd pleasers. Drummer Pete Watson took lead vocals on "Crocodile Rock" then Bex follwed up with a great soulful version of "Son Of A Preacher Man". I thought Mark Cockerill's Ibanez could've been just a touch higher in the mix for his silky smooth solo in "Another Brick In The Wall" but that would be splitting hairs a little, then two Blondie covers "One Way Or Another" and "Hangin' On The Telephone" brought an entertaining first spot to an end.

 

Although not necessarily the best place to actually SEE a live band, The Horn quite rightly figures highly with both bands and punters as a venue simply because of the great atmosphere which can be generated. And that atmosphere began to build as NE kicked off their second set with The Spencer Davis Group's "Gimme Some Lovin' " before slipping into a couple of bluesy numbers, the second of which, "Bring It On Home To Me" worked particularly well. From there the

band stepped it up another notch and by now had their audience right behind them as Bex's vocal chords went into overdrive with "Knock On Wood", "Dancing In The Street" and "Proud Mary". There was a bit of a false start to "River Deep Mountain High" and it ended up being a little ragged around the edges but this was, after all, live music and these things happen sometimes. Last up was a cracking version of "Nutbush City Limits" and the band encored with "Mustang Sally" leaving us all to reflect on a great nights entertainment.

 

 

Northern Exchange is something of a departure for Mark Cockerill placing him a little out of his rock comfort zone and although Bex, Mel, Dave and Pete bring their experience and ideas from varied musical backgounds, which some may say is a bit of a mismatch, for me it worked really well and has added something a bit different to the local live music circuit. Nice one!

 

PJF

 

Here are a few comments from some of the folks in the The Horn on Wednesday night:

 

Sharon: "Caters  for everyone"

 

Keith: "A little loud - very varied"

 

Tony: "Good group"

 

Dave: "Good all-round band"

 

Alan: "A good nights out listening"