The Zombies @ Open

Watching The Zombies play at Norwich’s tiny Maddermarket Theatre back in 2012 was a surreal and memorable experience, a really special night. How would their show transfer from such intimate surroundings to the much larger and grand environment of Open’s beautiful banking hall? Effortlessly, of course, these being the very definition of seasoned pros. Keyboard legend Rod Argent and lead singer Colin Blunstone are both 70 years old, with (brilliant) bassist Jim Rodford still rocking at 74. Would the show lack energy then, would the music be just that bit too polite? Pleasingly this was not the case, they managed that rare feat of making some songs which are FIFTY years old still sound fresh and vibrant. This was entirely down to the talents of the musicians on stage – they exuded class, charm, modesty and humility, but also that confidence that comes from knowing that you can really perform. Colin’s voice was so impressive; normally with older singers the voice often weakens, but somehow Colin’s seemed as though it’s been undiminished by the passing of time. The collective harmonies by the band were also remarkable.

The 1hr 45min set was filled with highlights – songs from their 1965 debut album, a suite of tracks from Odessey & Oracle (one of the 60’s greatest albums) right through their solo work before bringing us bang up to date with selections from their current Still Got The Hunger release. I’ve been saying this to people since I first saw the band three years ago, but I am delighted to confirm that Rod Argent is the best keyboard player I have ever seen live in concert. He was simply jaw dropping. He moved effortlessly between styles – honky tonk one minute, a touch of modal jazz the next, and full on Hammond psych flowed into gentle baroque pop. Incredible, and all played with that sense of modesty I mentioned earlier. This was a complete band performance though – guitarist Tom Toohey excelled and Jim Rodford’s son Steve on drums propelled the music along. On some of the longer instrumental jams it was great to see all the musicians playing off each other, reacting to what the others were playing and this is what made the show seem so alive. It was a massive thrill to hear songs of the calibre of She’s Not There and Time Of The Season but also lesser known numbers like the reworking of I Want You Back Again off the new album. They ended the show with a couple of songs from Rod’s other band Argent, namely Hold Your Head Up &  God Gave Rock ‘n’ Roll To You which gave everyone the chance to sing and clap along.