B. B. King appeals

Press, 15 October 1976, Page 4

B. B. King appeals

Even though B. B. King had an “axe” to grind, he proved at the Town Hall auditorium last evening that the blues could be an enjoyable experience. With his “axe” (guitar) named Lucille, he showed “after 30 years of trying as a professional” that the blues need not be sad—in spite of most of the songs being about sad experiences. Playing clear, very relaxed music, King and his sevenpiece backing group came out with the Sollicking “Let The Good Times Roll” and the much softer “How Blue Can You Get?”

It was this ability to mix the fast and loud with the slow and quiet that made the concert interesting. King provided further contrasts by playing basic blues such as “I Need Love So Bad” or “Why I Sing The Blues” and on Leon Russell’s "Hummingbird” with its vocal emphasis.

The evening will probably not be forgotten by Billy Nuku, resident drummer at the Chateau Commodore, and former drummer with John Rowles. He took John Starks’ place on drums after Starks and Bobby Forte, baritone and tenor saxophone player, had been refused entry to New Zealand by the immigration authorities. With some good conducting by the trumpeter, Eddie Rowe, Nuku made few mistakes, after having had only a little time yesterday afternoon to practise with the band. The other five men in the backing group also played well, particularly the hom section, and James Toney on organ. The hard task of opening the show went to the local group, Freshwater. They were well received, particularly in the funky song, 'ls Your Fingers Getting Wet?” —Nevin Topp.