If you are still reading at this point, you are probably a devoted ABC fan. So most likely, you were there that night and already know everything you need to know. But, for the small handful of people that were not there and are still reading, I shall give you the rundown of who ABC is and what it is I think they are doing.
The band, comprised over the years of multiple changing members, is headed by Martin Fry, self-described flamboyant artist. He often wears metallic suits, tinted in the same color from neck to ankle. The band was best known throughout the 80's when their first album, Lexicon of Love, came out in 1982. Since then, the band has had few singles, namely “The Look of Love” and “Poison Arrow,” both of which were played during the show and accompanied by many audience accolades.
When the band came out, I wondered a few things. I wondered if the guitarist was doing it for the money. I wondered why the bassist kept smiling at me and if I should move farther away from the stage. I wondered if Martin was hiding a few spare hips behind the bass drum. But, as the show progressed, I found that they were really entertaining the audience. Heads were being thrown around, asses were shaking, and photographers were accidentally getting hit in the head. These guys were truly having fun, and so were their fans. I found myself laughing often, and I honestly admire Mr. Martin Fry for getting up there and doing what he loves doing, all age restrictions aside and all tasteful suits barred. I could see this band in Las Vegas. I could also see this band at a backyard Bar Mitzvah. Although, they may want to omit the brand new, hip-thrusting song I believe was called “Ride” should they decide to take on that venue.
The music is pop-driven, and yet somehow Disco. It originates from the 80's, but still manages to have a sort of 70's flavor. Erasure fans might appreciate ABC for their catchy and upbeat melodies, love-laden lyrics, and ass-waddling rhythms. Underworld fans might also appreciate Mr. Fry because he really reminded me of Victor the Vampire. But that is neither here nor there.
Overall, I got a kick out of the concert. It was entirely not what I was expecting, but it made me laugh, it made me listen, and that's all I'm sure it was meant to do. Kudos to you, Martin Fry.
Tour mates The Good Luck Joes turned in a 40-minute, 10 track warm up, scoring quite an enthusiastic crowd giving its Milwaukee roots and forthcoming CD release What Do You Think Of That Noise? However, whoever booked these two groups together must have been going for a complete contrast because they weren't even remotely similar to the ABC sound.
Instead, the group turned in an alternative pop/rock set that straddled the lines between the pedestrian rock of Better Than Ezra, Sister Hazel and Tonic, with the more moving and melodic piano dynamics of Coldplay and Keane. In the first category, cuts like "No You Don't" and "48 Hours" were as average as average could be, never moving beyond the sanitary even in the midst of audience approval.
However, when the keyboards truly settled in on the closer "Middle of Me," the guys demonstrated a more fleshed out feel that strayed away from the ordinary towards a truly vibrant platform. If The Good Luck Joes continue going in that direction, they'll be golden, though as it stands right now, they need to shed the college rock commonplace.
* Good Luck Joes photos & Review by ANDY ARGYRAKIS
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