LIVE

Rip It Up, Issue 15, 1 September 1978, Page 16

LIVE

John Dix

Spatz Island of Real Stewart Crooks’ face is a mask of determination and perspiration. Shortly before Spats moved to Auckland four months ago Stewart took over the skinsman’s seat vacated by Bruno Lawrence. No easy task for a young drummer’s first professional band. But any difficulties that may have been apparent four months ago aren’t visible tonight as he pounds the drums embellishing a stonyfaced Patrick Bleakley's powerful bass runs. The other major change in the band comes in the form of Annette Morrison, who replaces Julie Needham. Whereas Julie merely added harmonies, Annette takes the mike several times throughout the night for some solo spots. Appearing nervous much of the time, there is no need as her vocals show a great deal of promise. Spats have been together for just over a year, the last six months based in Auckland. Their earliest gigs tended to be a bit patchy,

mainly due to erratic playing from guitarist Fane Flaws, who formed the band after a two year break from music, and a lack of confidence from pianist Peter Dasent. However, the problems have been ironed out with Fane’s playing showing few flaws and Peter, no longer content to add mere rhythm to the sound, coming to the fore with some inspired solos. The line-up is completed with Tony Backhouse, who's been one of the most dominating guitarists and composers on the Wellington scene for a long time. Tony and Fane contribute most of the band’s original material, which covers 75% of their repertoire. With one or two brackets a night set aside for sonje theatrics and Fane’s out-front showmanship, an evening with Spats is pure entertainment. Although the evening is likely to begin with a dissonance, once fingers have been found Spats perform with an adroit energy and proficient musicianship. With possible hit singles on their hands like “Red Hot Mamma’’ and “New Wave Goodbye”, Spats are one of the most original bands in the land and may very well be DA! DA! The Next Big Thing.