*As published in the Peterborough Evening Telegraph Friday December 11th 2009*
Music Review – Crash – Voyager School, Peterborough.
November 13th 2009.
It would be easy to be sceptical about a band featuring a top motorcycle rider. However Crash slam the brakes on any such suggestions with their spirited performances which really entertain their fans. Most importantly, they are raising money for charity as part of the gig.
James Toseland – famous for racing in Moto GP and World Superbike, makes a surprisingly easy transition from rider to rock star, with an impressive vocal and outstanding piano skills. Looking totally relaxed on stage, he shows off his talents and seemingly loves every second of performing to his fans. Chants of “JT” roar through the crowd and there really is a buzz of excitement. Once the helmet is off, James really shows that music is his passion and with him confirming that he would like to record an album one day, I can only look forward to hearing it. I guarantee it will be worth waiting for. Whatever this man does, he does it with style and flair, he’s onto a winner!
Also on vocals and on the guitar is Paul Grant-Reason, who is a superb guitarist and a delight to listen too. Certainly adding a lively vibe on stage and really engaging with his band, he adds a lot of personality to the performance. The life and soul of the party, with a cheeky grin across his face!
Warren Odell (known as Woz) does his thing on the mic, guitar and bass. A little more understated than JT & Paul, but an awesome singing voice.
On the drums, Gavin Hall, finishes off the quartet. Once again, a very accomplished performer and completes a fantastic group of people who really gel together. There is a noticeable chemistry between them on stage and they appear to be having as much fun as the fans are!
The band covers many legendary songs including Status Quo - Rocking All Over The World, Police - Message In A Bottle and AC/DC – Whole Lotta Rosie. They also cover many recent artists such as Kings of Leon, Foo Fighters and Muse so there is a wide appeal for all ages.
What I particularly enjoyed about their performance was the fact that the band had rehearsed a few songs before the gig and some they hadn’t planned to perform on the night. With some “encouragement” from the fans and from Paul, JT took a risk and sang a new song, “Everything About You” by Ugly Kid Joe. It was so new to him, he had to check his mobile phone whilst singing, so he could remember the lyrics! It added a comic side to the performance and as per usual, JT delivered the goods. Respect to JT!
My personal favourite song by the band was “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic”. A real classic and it had me on my feet singing and dancing, not wanting it to end!
A beautiful touch for the finale was James’ favourite song “Sweet Child of Mine” which he dedicated to his late best friend, Craig Jones. Craig’s fiancée was present in the audience so a lovely gesture.
Unfortunately for everyone, the headmaster rang the bell cutting time on the performance, so to avoid detention, the boys had to finish their gig earlier than normal. Damn that headmaster!
Their gig took place at the relatively new school in Peterborough, the Voyager. There were around 520 people who had paid £16.00 to watch Crash. It was worth every penny as the funds raised were going to the Air Ambulance who had potentially saved JT’s live in a race accident. It may have been seated venue, but everyone was on their feet clapping, it was a marvellous atmosphere.
Overall, I was very impressed with Crash. I am impatiently awaiting the next gig as I can’t wait to see them perform again and I am sure the boys will have a few surprises in store. A championship performance in my eyes!
Copyright Leandra Graves/Peterborough Evening Telegraph 2009
Hey chick. Nice review you posted of the gig there chick. It's Fizz here.
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