Jersey Bob becomes Kiwi Bob!

I played at Bob Vincent's farewell gig last night at the Blue Note.

Bob has been on the local gigging and singer-songwriter scene for years, is an eco warrior and massive supporter and catalyst for local original music. With a well-known loathing for cover bands, Bob has always been vocal about musicians playing their own tunes and is always happy to hear new originals in their sets.

Apart from his campaign for the environment and original music, Bob has also been instrumental in organizing and promoting local gigs for causes like the Tsunami Appeal and World Aids Day.

Some may know Bob as the tribal/folk half of local band 'The Big Hellos', with Kevin Pallot making up the other half of the duo.

Bob is heading off to New Zealand to live the life of a true folk troubodour, spreading his music and beliefs and no-doubt making new friends and winning new fans as he goes.

Last night's gig was a send-off for Bob and featured some great local talent, all of whom, write and perform original music (although like myself, some weave in some selected covers in theirs sets when Bob ain't around!)

I had the honour of kicking things off with Alex Glendining on percussion, and we soundchecked with 'Volcano' (Damien Rice) and then played Jeff Black's 'Take it Easy on Me', two new originals (Don't we just make fools of ourselves & My card) and finished off with Pearl Jam's 'Jeremy'.

Moog were up next and were fantastic with their groove-infused punk, opening with their version of the Bergerac theme tune! Brilliant band with great songwriting skills and impressive vocals, especially Johnny on bass with his harmonies. Bob introduced them as his favorite local band and it is easy to see why, I challenge anyone not to enjoy a set by these guys.

Next up was Darren Everson (spelling?) a new singer-songwriter on the local scene. A tough act to follow in Moog, but Darren's powerful voice and upbeat rock songs did the trick and went down really well. I like Darren's tunes, he reminds me of a cross between The Eagles and Maroon 5, with the vocal range of both.

Next up was Bob himself and as always, his sense of humour and interesting song lyrics kept the crowd laughing, tapping their feet and something that Bob has become an expert at... engaged with the performer. This is Bob's unique point of difference, how he involves the audience, often teaching them the chorus to his songs before playing it properly so everyone can join in.

Next was the highlight for me, Kevin Pallot and his new band. With keyboards, a fiddle player, bass and drums, Kev has found his sound and it was an awesome display. I've always found the dynamics between Kev and Bob fascinating, on paper it shouldn't work but always has. Bob with his tribal rhythms, eco-friendly lyrics and folk/roots influences, mixed with Kev's boyband looks and powerful voice.

Kev's vocals are a cross between Eddie Vedder and Ray Lamontagne and his lyrics are always personal and heart-felt. This band give him a new dynamic and there were truly some goosebump moments, especially when the fiddle player weaved in-between some of Kev's more belting vocals. One to watch and of Jersey's crop of singer-songwriters, I think the most marketable act on the scene... watch out Nerina Pallot (no relation).

Anyway, all in all, it was a privilge and Jersey Bob, we salute you and wish you well, my friend.

There were plenty of camera flashes going off on the night and if I find any shots online, I will link to them.