Posted on Oct 06 2023 01:54 PM
Man, oh man! Made the couple hours and change trek to CLT for last nights debut of the latest incarnation of The Aqualads and I could not be more glad I did.
'Zombie Dave' from Jeremy's Exotica/Surfxotica band The Manakooras has joined Jeremy, Greg (guitar) and Darrell (drums) to lock in with Darrell and hold down the groove. 'Lock In' and 'Hold it Down' they did.
As a fellow NC'er and friends with the Jeremy & the boys for quite some time now, I've had the good fortune to see this phenomenal band multiple times over the last dozen years or so.
It was instantly obvious how easily Jeremy & the boys picked right back up as if they were never apart. And just as impressive, how quickly and how incredibly well Dave jumped into it all. As I understand it, Dave came a little late to this reboot and has only practiced with them twice in the last several weeks (month maybe?). If you didn't know that, you'd never know. Masterful playing, great pocket & groove. He just flat out nailed it. Of course the unspoken telepathy between Jeremy, Greg and Darrell was on display in fine form too.
The energy and vibe of the band was outstanding as was the Thursday night crowd at Tommy's Pub. Many long time friends and fans eager to witness NC's finest surf band back at it (perhaps one of the finest active surf bands period). Disappointed they were not.
I know the boys had to be a little anxious, buzzing with excitement to be back at it, but what was real fun to watch was THEM having fun. I think I saw more smiles and wry grin's shot one another's way than I ever have. And there were many songs that sounded just as good if not better than I've ever heard them performed. I got the sense they knew and felt that way too, later confirmed at the bar afterwards.
To be sure they will only get better which is kinda crazy considering a real high bar set last night. I know they're already talking about working up and recording a new album. Sounds like many new songs already exist so who knows, maybe we get more new Aqualads in 2024 (???). I can't hardly way for that!
The Aqualads are definitely back!!
—
Fady
El Mirage @ ReverbNation
Last edited: Oct 06, 2023 14:07:27
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