The slick Cockney mix had every knee jigging
Last updated 05:37, Friday, 29 August 2008
CHAS AND DAVELampshades, sumo wrestlers and even the moon had a dance to Chas and Dave on Saturday night.
The cockney duo took to the stage just as Solfest turned into a giant fancy dress party. A colourful crowd was there to enjoy their blend of music hall and 50s-style rock.
Best-known for novelties like 1980 single Rabbit, Chas and Dave have made a concerted effort to gain credibility. And there’s no denying their skill as musicians – Chas Hodges is a world-class pianist and their performance was slick and well-rehearsed.
While they did run through the hits, like 1986 single Snooker Loopy, their lesser-known material seemed to get the best reaction. Chas contributed boogie woogie keys on tunes like Wallop, while ballads like Wish I Could Write A Love Song were surprisingly tender.
The pair had the confidence on stage of a lifetime spent in showbusiness. Their rapport with each other translated well to the audience, and gaps between songs were filled with banter.
Even the slower songs had an element of the theatrical, with cabaret-style instrumentals and jangly guitars. Lyrics were delivered in a thick Cockney twang, often at tongue-twisting speeds.
Their distinctive style wasn’t for everyone, and songs did start to merge together after a while. But kids loved the show, and even if you didn’t like them, you couldn’t stop your knees from jigging.
MEG JORSH
