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Salient. Victoria University Student Newspaper. Volume 36, Number 21. 5th September 1973

Rock Concert

Rock Concert

Photo of rock band Country Radio

Country Radio—L to R: Gregg Quill, John Bois Tony Bolton, Les Stackpole.

This Saturday, September 8 in the Union Hall two rock groups will perform. Country Radio, a four piece Australian band, feature Greg Quill on lead vocals and 6 and 12 acoustic guitar. Earlier this year the band was popular in Oz for their original material broke up, the band now comprises Greg Quill, the original bass and drums, and lead guitarist Les Stackpole who has worked in 'Hair'.

Country Radio is described by their management as a 'tight, rocky outfit writing and performing more Australian based music originals'. Their live album illustrates Quill's controlled vocal technique — a thin, country influenced style which rides over the backing harmonies. The rhythm section is incredibly tight displaying a sensitivity often lacking when the front instruments are acoustic. Their 'Pop Co' appearance where they rendered a 'rock' version of 'South Australia' did nothing for their image but satisfy the breweries and hotel circuit promoters that they really are an indigenous Ozzie group. However they are undoubtedly accomplished, professional musicians and that alone warrants an audience.

Appearing also is Highway who have not played on this campus since 1971. Dave Brown on saxes joins original members Phil Pritchard (guitar), George Limbidis (bass), and Jim Laurie (drums). The sax is run through a Maestro which splits the sound into three octaves. This sound is beautifully entwined with the subdued guitar developing free musical patterns reminiscent of Mahavishnu. The bass is as impressive as ever riding over Laurie's snatty drumming. Highway, like most original and inventive NZ groups are struggling with equipment hassles but will soon be using a PA system of unheard quality. This is by no means the old Highway but efinitely an exciting and stimulating sound.