GOLDEN EARRING, THE KIDS Live @ Zulzeekse Feesten, Kluisbergen - Belgium - 28.07.2018

MUSICAL MASTERCLASS IN CYCLING VILLAGE

So yes, I was the whole week at Rockall where they have no internet and that's why this stayed in my shelf for that time. But nevermind here is my review because ZZ was top! The Fest I mean... And for 2019 you'll see these bands around again at the summer festivals in the low lands. Has it ever been different?

It was eighty years ago that the earth trembled in Zulzeke. Maybe that's why the organisation thought at The Kids and in lesser degree at Golden Earring for shaking up their summerfest. Because from The Kids you can expect rattling music while Golden Earring brings a more subtle rock sound. Three thousand spectators was maybe a bit too optimistic for the gigs on saturday but the concerts brought life into a normally only by cycling events moved village. The Kids, one of the longest running Belgian bands, celebrated in 2016 their fortieth anniversary back then with local talents Black Tolex opening up for them.

That's an honour for the troups of Ludo Mariman of course because who says punkrock in Belgium and Flanders can not go passed this Antwerp band. Moreover, you know what you gonna get when you put the Belgian Ramones on your bill. Already early in the set we got to hear that 'There Will Be No Next Time' and that the authorities are 'Fascist Cops' (but luckily they were at the entrance then). And 'If The Kids Are United' that the rich may fear for a 'White Riot'. Bringing lyrically with

"That's my life until I die"

even the ultimate ode to rock'n roll. Respect!

With Golden Earring you bring in experience, performing pleasure, feeling and class on your festival. The four Dutchmen are at seventy years (ssst!) still one by one top musicians and so is their show. In their home country they haven't been equalled until now and their gig simply brings enjoyment, for their sound fitted perfect and didn't automatically require loudness.

Late seventies' & eighties' touch

The folky 'Another 45 Miles' was the perfect example of that. A song that rang in the seventies and has since always been strongly appreciated. 'When The Lady Smiles' was instantly recognised but 'Going To The Run' - a bikers' ode - and 'Johnny Make Believe' - with bass player Gerritsen at the organ - were the sing-a-longs that enchanted the audience. And the living proof that this band had also succesful singles in the eighties and nineties.

The guys from The Hague even brought with them saxophone player Bertus Borgers who looked after that typical late seventies' and eighties' touch. Those that know the Golden Earring shows are aware of the space they allow the solo improvisations during the intervals of their greatest hit 'Radar Love'. At first it was Rinus Gerritsen making his self-made double bass sound like a sax whereafter he relaxedly unleashed a bursting solo on exotic lively vibes.



Then it was time for drummer Cesar Zuiderwijk to show why he's got a double drum mounted behind his head. Show and drumsticks juggling but also intruiging worldly sounds: these are ingredients of a band that's got something extra to offer. Summarized, a masterclass in music on a hot summer night that for many went even into higher gear during the afterparty. Golden Earring was not awaiting a hangover on sunday, but with Aalter their second summerfest of a Belgian weekend!



Setlist: Just Like Vince Taylor/ Identical/ 45 Miles/ Twilight Zone/ The Devil Made Me Do It/ Going To The Run/ When The Lady Smiles/ Long Blond Animal/ Johnny Make Believe/ Radar Love

Bis: She Flies On Strange Wings/ Holy Holy Life



08.08.2018