Susan Raye concert

Press, 12 September 1988, Page 6

Susan Raye concert

Susan Raye and Steven James, with The Coal Rangers, presented by Quantam Promotions and 3ZB, at the Theatre Royal, September 11, 8 p.m. Reviewed by Philip Norman.

I had a most unusual experience last evening — I found myself enjoying country music.

To be more specific, it was actually the performance of the country music that appealed. To be absolutely precise, the performer responsible for inducing this rare sensation was Susan Raye. Her presentation at the Theatre Royal last evening was so infectiously wholesome it was impossible to keep one’s toes from tapping in sympathy. The personality and voice of this American singer radiated warmth and good cheer. Through songs such as “I can’t even get the Blues,” “I’ll come back,” and “What you’re going to do with a dog like that” she charmed the initially unresponsive audience into reacting with enthusi-

asm to her happy sound. Raye’s unflappable presence and generous praise also helped encourage the local backing band, The Coal Rangers, to produce energetic and colourful accompaniments. Especially notable were contributions from the keyboardist and lead guitarist. Appearing with Susan Raye was her son, Steven James, also a competent performer, but one who has yet to gain the easy stage manner of his mother. James offered a pleasant, if slightly stilted, bracket of songs as a soloist. Later, when working in tandem with Raye, he appeared much more at ease and made a lively contribution to the duets performed. Away from the path of country music, The Coal Rangers offered an interesting set of items in the pipeopening slot. Though loosely delivered on occasions, these songs were nevertheless given with good spirits and a pleasaing degree of finesse.