Review – RESPECT

In the all too cool and cosy surrounds of The Promethean, this local group showed RESPECT for the music of Aretha Franklin. Unlike other shows that I’ve seen in the music tribute space, the “Rock Steady Soul Band” did not muck about. They gave us the gold. Covering early hits like “Chain of Fools” to eighties chart topper “Pink Caddillac” this group seemed hell-bent on making sure everyone had a great time.

And that we did. With people getting up and dancing, clicking and clapping, this powerhouse group easily accomplished their goal.

Interestingly, the tribute extended not only to the music of Aretha, but also to music that she herself paid tribute to, including Otis Redding’s “Can’t Turn You Loose” and The Rolling Stone’s “Jumping Jack Flash”. This is by no means a complaint, Aretha covered these songs for a damn good reason, that being, they are damn good songs.

An absolute high point of the night was the audience participation during the title track as we joined in the fun by providing the backing “woos” and “sock it to me’s”.

If you are a fan of soul music, I cannot recommend this enough. The full band complete with horn section paired with impressive vocalists make for a great night out. The tragedy is, the fringe run is over.

**Note: While Ms Franklin made Respect not only her song but also something of a feminist anthem, it is worth noting that the song was originally written and recorded by the late, great, godfather of soul, Otis Redding.**