Solid Rock to roll again in bigband tribute concert
By ANTHONY CASTLE
The Salvo Bigband will present an ‘extraordinary musical journey’ when it celebrates the legacy of The Salvation Army’s pioneering rock bigband from the 1970s, Solid Rock.
The music of Solid Rock will take centre stage once again for a special tribute concert at Preston Corps in Melbourne on Saturday 9 September.
“Get ready to be transported back in time with some of the old songs that made the Solid Rock band legendary,” said promoter Michael Sainsbery.
Growing out of the collaborations of young Salvos, a jazz-rock band was formed in 1972, referencing the type of arrangements found in popular bands like Blood, Sweat, and Tears and Chicago. Called Solid Rock, the group released LPs and was even well-reviewed in Rolling Stone’s coverage of the Sunbury Festival.
The modern-day Salvo Bigband, a group formed at the request of International Headquarters in 2010, and the concert will be graced with the presence of original Solid Rock band members, who will add their unique touch to the already spectacular line-up.
The event will also mark the exclusive launch of Merv Collins’ remarkable book, Solid Rock - Live! (Read Barry Gittins’ book review here)
A band called ‘Too Late For Sorry’ will perform in the Youth Hall from 6pm, with the main concert beginning at 7.15 pm. Admission is free, and attendees are kindly requested to bring a few extra dollars to grab a copy of the Merv Collins’ book as a treasured keepsake of this event.
The event may be recorded and live-streamed, so even if people can’t make it in person, they need not miss out on the magic.
“Whether you’re a seasoned fan who remembers the band’s glory days or someone who’s heard the legend and wants to experience it firsthand, come celebrate the musical legacy of The Salvation Army’s Solid Rock band,” Michael said.
