Elvis — Costello? (Press, 16 February 1978)

In a surprising turn of events for Greymouth, a small town not typically known for hosting lively New Zealand rock bands, Tom Sharplin and the Rockets, a group from Auckland, have captivated local audiences. Following a memorable performance in Greymouth in November 1977, the band returned to Christchurch's Aranui Motor Lodge for another show last week, which further showcased their vibrant and entertaining style. The band's performance in Greymouth was described as stunning, likely due to the rarity of professional musicianship in the area. Known for their engaging antics, the group incorporates humour into their shows to connect with audiences. For instance, during one humorous segment, two members leapt into the audience squawking like seagulls while wearing costumes during a rendition of Neil Diamond's "Jonathan Livingstone Seagull." Another highlight included a playful take on Tchaikovsky's "Nutcracker Suite," with keyboardist Malcolm Smith donned in a bow tie and using a music stand. Their performances are marked by a rock 'n' roll finale featuring classic hits from the 1950s, with songs made famous by legends like Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly, and Jerry Lee Lewis, ensuring that their shows grab the audience's attention. The group has been touring New Zealand for 18 months and it is their third nationwide tour. Lead guitarist Glenn White noted their popularity is on the rise, having sold out shows in various cities, including Palmerston North and Invercargill. White also commented on the tendency of New Zealand bands to infuse humour into their acts, suggesting it is an effective way to engage with the often reserved local audiences. He referenced other groups, such as Split Enz, who use elements of insanity, and Mother Goose's play on pure slapstick comedy as part of the broader strategy to win over tough crowds. Aside from their comedic sketches, Tom Sharplin and the Rockets are equally capable of delivering strong musical performances, often featuring songs by Santana. Their dynamic and cohesive play style showcases the camaraderie among the band members, who constantly seek fresh ideas to integrate into their act. For example, during their time in Dunedin, they staged a “Miss Drag Queen” contest, which was well received. Tom Sharplin and the Rockets are set to return to Greymouth for performances next Friday and Saturday, and following their Greymouth shows, they will head to Nelson for a week. The group plans to return to Christchurch in July, continuing to build on their growing popularity across New Zealand.

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