The Jason Eddie Story
"In Summer"
At
Southport Theatre
Pics of the show kindly supplied and copyrite of Vilma and Terry Kinney
Review by : Dave Lodge
On the 17th of June 2006 at The Southport Theatre The Billy Fury Tribute Show with a difference took to the stage. Taking the lead and topping the bill was Jason Eddie who, although a recording star in his own right is also known to us as Albie Wycherley, Billy's brother.
As Albie himself has said on many occasions he is a Billy Fury fan just like the rest of us. The difference being, when we lost Billy he lost Ronnie his beloved brother who will live in his memory forever., Albie never sang one of Billy's songs until after his death and then he says "It just seems right" Those of us fortunate enough to see his performance and listened to the poignant love songs being sung in the same key that Billy recorded them with similar vocal intonation and phrasing can only humbly agree, It is right that Albie aka Jason should sing these songs. I should also say that I have seen Albie's shows in the past when I have compered them on a couple of occasions when Tommy Bruce has appeared with him. I have NEVER been disappointed.
The Show was compered on this occasion by Dave Sampson who, incidentally toured with Billy on all of the Parnes show and was himself a Colombia recording artiste. Dave, best remembered for the recording of a self penned number "Sweet Dreams" He is still remembered with great affection the British public and he confined himself to sharing his memories of Billy and on this occasion did not sing. We will have to wait for his next appearance with James Burton to hear him again.
First act on stage were the unbelievably talented Everly Brothers Tribute "Two Of A Kind" David and Michael are twins and their vocal harmonies reflect their family connection. They are simply the best act of this type that I have ever seen. It is plain that they have added hard work to their natural talent to come up with a sound that only real aficionado's of the Everly Brothers could note any difference. Even then it is so sweet and melodic I am sure there is no fault to find. The hits were all there 'Cathy's Clown' 'All I Have To Do Is Dream' right through to 'On The Wings Of A Nightingale' the audience were in raptures and shouting for more long after the boys had left the stage.
Next up were a great band Liverpool Express. Formed by Billy Kinsley they have been around for over thirty years having had both recording and TV success. One of their most notable successes was in 1978 when, at the special request of Prince Charles they appeared in the Royal Gala Performance at The Empire Theatre In Liverpool. With the aid of fellow band members and the incomparable Dave Goldberg on Keyboards, along with the highly talented Kenny Parry on lead guitar. Billy took us back to the golden days of merseybeat, with songs from The Beatles, The Searchers and of course Billy's original band The Merseybeats to name just three. An excellent set which brought the first half of the show to a close.
The second half of the show would belong to Jason Eddie and through his songs Billy Fury. The backing was provided by the Jason Eddie Sound and The Paul Taft String Orchestra. This under Paul Taft's direction and arrangement provided an excellent well rounded authentic sound. There was also a girl backing duo, The Passionettes, Dionne and Louise provided backing vocals and harmonies. They were excellent and when they performed a sexy dance around Jason, caressing him as he sang there were a few of us men over sixty including Jason who nearly had to be resuscitated by The St. Johns Ambulance volunteers.
Jason Eddie reminded us of what a fine performer he is; he presented an act full of humour and vocal talent. He sang Billy's songs and thrilled the audience who were clamouring for more. When he sang 'Halfway To Paradise' his mam, Jean Joined him on stage and added her vocals much to the delight of the fans.
For me however having enjoyed the show the highlight was when he sang two songs that he has recorded himself 'Helpless and 'My Babe' In particular I thought his rendition of 'Helpless' was the best I had ever heard. We all left the theatre having had a wonderful nostalgic evening.
The after show party was another matter as I staggered away through tiredness, not drink. Both Albie and I were forced to concede that at our age ( We were born on the same day 26th of June) We might just be past cavorting around at three in the morning.
Dave Lodge
"The only official Billy Fury Tribute Show"
Saturday the 17th of June 2006
"In Summer "
at
Southport Theatre
Promenade,
Southport PR9 0DZ
call box office on 0870 6077560
Here it is a brand new show for one night only in the summer of 2006. The line up is a real treat featuring Jason with his new band "The Jason Eddie Sound" accompanied by the very lovely and talented backing vocalists "The Passionettes" Together they will deliver the most accurate detailed portrayal of the songs recorded by Billy Fury along with a selection of Jason's own songs and with some very raunchy rock 'n' roll sandwiched in between you are in for a real treat.
Other highlights in the show are the incredible Liverpool Express who will deliver a very polished set of material that has stood the test of time. They are one of the most fantastic, talented, tightest bands you will ever see.
PIC OF LIVERPOOL EXPRESS TO FOLLOW
Compereing the whole show in his own inimitable style is one of the nicest guys in show business and a great performer in his own rite. The fabulous Dave Sampson
Also on the bill are a very believable duo "Two of a Kind" delivering a tribute to one of the most successful duo's of all time "The Everly Brothers"
"Do not miss this show packed full of talent and guaranteed to leave the audience screaming for more"