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Latest reviews are at the TOP

I really enjoyed Bad Influence last week when the weather was definitely not tropical ! It may have been cold outside but the band were red hot. Richard Hayes is a great slide guitarist and deserves a higher profile. He should be up there among the top guitar heroes.

Bravado were excellent last night. Every bit as good as Philip's hype - and more. Not easy to do a tribute to some of the worlds best musicians (Rush) and get away with it. Spoilt only by the selfish idiots talking at the back of the hall whilst the music performances were on (who couldn't read your nice orange notices) - can these people be banned please, or at least have a gag put on them for the duration of the show. (Will try - Philip)

Having read the reviews of the first Bravado performance at the Tropic I went along last night more in hope than expectation. The original reviews were glowing but I have seen many reviews build a band up only to be disappointed when I have seen them myself. My fears were wasted as BRAVADO were F-A-N-T-A-S-T-I-C. As a big Rush fan I had not expected them to be that good. Rush's music is very complex but these 3 guys from Yorkshire pulled it off with a mastery I was not expecting. Concentrating on early Rush from the 70s and early 80s the material was just what I (and the hard core Rush fans in the audience) wanted to hear. A brilliant night and they thoroughly deserved the massive applause they got at the end. The show was over far too quickly - I wanted 3 hours not just the 2 hours they played. Please get them back ASAP as I can't believe there is a better tribute band out there.

Still on a high from last nights gig (Rhapsody). It was brilliant. I've already booked tickets for the 30th June 2012. Everybody that came in my party loved it. Thank you so much for a really good night.

Saturday 19th November saw the first appearance at Ruislip of Muse tribute band Hypermused. Now Muse are a band often voted best live act in the world and having seen them at Wembley Stadium last year, who am I to argue?!

So despite having seen Hypermused once before in Croydon, I approached this show with some trepidation. I needn't have worried as Hypermused put on a great show. They played material from all 5 studio albums and even slipped in a couple of B-sides and the single only In Your World.

Personal highlights were Cave, New Born, Hysteria, Fury and Knights Of Cydonia. The only slight downside for me was the lack of live piano/keyboards, but the 3 guys were all on top of their game. I take my hat off to anybody who can play that fabulous Hysteria bassline! The audience was small but quietly appreciative. Hopefully these guys will be back at Ruislip soon with the bigger audience they so richly deserve.

X-UFO

You told us they were good, over and over, oh how you told us how good they were. So we decided to invest our Friday evening to see what exactly all the fuss was about.

HOW GOOD THEY WERE!

Superb from start to finish.

Not just Willie Nile, who is the consummate showman throughout, that band are bloody good!!!
And how nice to see an unknown Sax player get invited up from the front of house to play a few numbers - what a blast he must have had - and did himself proud, well done that guy. And well done the Willie Nile Band for having no pretensions of greatness and do such a thing - it's what keeps places like The Tropic alive - you get close to the music .

Though they will never be a Stadium band, they fully deserve a wider audience.

Another, excellent gig at an excellent music venue - more power to you!

Where has Willie Nile been hiding?

Either through lack of effort or imagination I had not heard of Willie Nile until last night (4th November). The gig at the Tropic at Ruislip instantly made me realise what I had been missing for all these years. Certainly the best gig I have ever seen here!

Willie Nile is a truly gifted songwriter, mixing the lyrics of hope, justice and dreams with instantly memorable melodies. His performance was a full on blend of punk attitudes and old fashioned rock showmanship! Add this all to a funky bass, spot on “no frills” drumming and a lead guitarist who was clever enough to know when not to play and you had the perfect rock band.

At the stage when I thought this could not get any better on strolled a guest saxophonist (Stephen Ellery an English music arranger) and blew us all away. Apparently he had not even rehearsed with the band. When later Glenn Matlock appeared, to sing a duet with Willie, complete with backing vocals from Mick Ronson’s daughter, I thought I must have died and gone to the big gig in the sky.

Support form Micky Kemp was also very good (complete with his brilliant guitarist) and definitely deserves a gig to himself.

Thanks to Philip for sticking his neck out and thanks to Willie and the band for not giving up on the Tropic after two previous not so successful visits. (Actually it was one disaster...and the second was fine! Philip)

Thanks Philip, another brilliant Tropic Night !  I was very apprehensive about this one , I have been a massive Bowie admirer from Hunky Dory onwards and not only did Absolute Bowie sound and dress like the real thing but the singer looked like him and had obviously spent a long time studying mannerisms etc. It was quite eerie to watch but at the same time it was musically wonderful.

FRAGILE??? Far from it. This was sheer class! Two and a half hours of brilliant yes tribute without a break and still we wanted more! I have been wanting to see this band for a couple of years but to get them at The Tropic what a bonus!

I thought the vocals and musicianship of Bravado the week before were spot-on, but Fragile raised the bar. Fantastic sound and the vocals were absolutely flawless. Did he sound like Jon Anderson? YES but even better!
 

Many thanks for putting on the brilliant FRAGILE at the Tropic last Friday.

I have followed the band (and their mentors) for many years and it was great to see them at such a familiar and ideal venue. The trip from sunny Dorset was well worth the effort, even if the return trip on Saturday took us 4.5
hours...!

It was also great to see such a good turnout at the Tropic for quite a 'specialist' act on their first visit. YES music can take some getting used to, and it's appeal is not instant. Coming in 'cold' to such a gig is not easy. It was therefore heart-warming to see a much-larger-than-expected crowd who really seemed to get into what the band was doing. Your announcement suggesting that those who wanted to talk should move to the other bar did not go unheeded, which was brilliant. Just a shame there wasn't time for the encore!

As for the band themselves, the new(ish) rhythm section is now very settled and apart from a minor slip-up (only noticeable if you know the music really well) they were very much on form. The new medley of early songs was very strong and perennial gems such as the lush and extravagant 'Close to the Edge' in all its 19 minute glory, and the dynamic and thrilling 'Heart of the Sunrise' are always a delight to witness.

Thanks Tropic and thanks Fragile.

We'll definitely be making the 300 mile round trip to catch them next time.

Fragile were simply outstanding. I had tears in my eyes, they were that good. I've only attended 4 or 5 gigs here but this was the best I've attended. I wish it could have gone on longer but at nearly 2.5 hrs I can't complain. More Fragile please.

Just a quick email to say how that last Friday's gig with "Bravado" was the best gig yet at the venue! Anyone who was not there missed a spectacular show and should not miss them if they return! I would like to thank them personally for travelling all the way down from Yorkshire to do the gig, giving us such a great performance and hope that they enjoyed themselves! PLEASE PLEASE get them back!

We were lied to! That couldn't have been a tribute band it was RUSH pretending to be BRAVADO! I saw Rush at Wembley in 2004, this lot were their equal. The music was loud, proud, and incredibly tight. So much so that the meagre crowd made as much noise as a full house. In some ways I feel sorry for the bands that are booked later in the year as they'll have a great deal of difficulty measuring up to the incredible performance we witnessed last night. BRAVADO are three guys that are masters of their craft.

Sadly the evening went by way too fast, next time an eight hour set please!!!!

Over the past six years or so I have averaged one gig per week at the following local North West/North London venues: The Rayners Hotel, Harrow Tithe Farm Social Club, The Greenwood (Northolt), The New Bull & Butcher (Whetstone), and from the last two years, the Tropic at Ruislip Manor Social Club. During that time I must have seen every tribute band of note from AC/DC UK to ZZ Tops, but in all those gigs I have never come across a tribute that is as impressive as Bravado, a tribute to the veteran Canadian Prog Rock band Rush.

Straight away from a very strong start with, "Spirit Of Radio", via "The Trees", "Tom Sawyer", "Temples Of Syrinx", and "The Big Money", the band never put so much as a foot wrong, just flawless musicianship throughout. The in room sound was just amazingly good to boot with "Geddy Lee's", thunderous bass pedals causing my trouser legs to flap in sympathy on occasion!

With three superb musicians I feel it would be unfair to single out anyone unduly so I'll just give a 10 out of 10 for their overall performance, very professional presentation and choice of set list. If one could take a Rush stadium show, shrink it down to fit inside a club setting (and at a club price!) yet not compromise on musicianship, sound and presentation then that is what one gets with Bravado. There is no catch.

Also it is very refreshing to see a band that takes a similar "no compromise" stance to their equipment and back-line, there must have been somewhere north of £20-30K of equipment on that stage (including a gong behind "Neil Peart's", massive drum kit, that he used precisely once throughout the two hour show)!! Met the drummer after the show, and I must say what a lovely, friendly guy with zero ego he was - despite having played the best drum solo this side of a Rush stadium show!!!

I gather that the advice given to Philip (Promoter at te Tropic) on enquiring after a Rush tribute was, "Bravado - just book them!", my advice to anyone reading this that is partial to the music of Rush (and especially) if tribute bands are "not their thing", is similarly straightforward, Bravado - just go and see them! Philip, I demand that they return and you will too!!!!
 

I attended the Bravado gig last Friday and as Rush are my favourite band of all time I was not expecting much from a tribute band having seen the original at the O2 fairly recently. However I was extremely surprised to see the musicianship on display and thoroughly enjoyed the night. The crowd there was probably the smallest I have seen there but certainly not the quietest or least appreciative. They were a fantastic band to see and if you can persuade them to play again I think it will be a big coup for yourselves. Being an avid fan I know that Rush music is an acquired taste so I cannot see that you would have a packed venue however I would return as would my wife. I can never understand how Rush are so underrated and with tribute bands like Bravado their music will live in forever. Lets hope I live to see the year 2112 in but I do not see that that will happen unless an ageless pill will be invented. Keep the SPIRIT OF RADIO alive and get them back again.

WHAT A RUSH

It was as if we had been transported back to the 80's and RUSH were actually performing at The Tropic.

Not only did BRAVADO perform with great accuracy, the very complex music of RUSH, but thanks to Phil's "Military Grade" full PA, you could feel as well as hear the vast wall of sound from this incredible 3 piece.

Been meaning to head down for a while and this was my first visit - not least because knowing that any band that was going to try and play Rush was going to not just be good but very good given the complexity of the music. Bravado rose to the challenge and exceeded my expectations with a quality of performance and sound.

Everything about the show was excellent and if that is the standard then I’m looking forward to seeing some other bands but the only worry is that Bravado have set such a very high standard.

Thanks for putting on the show and thanks to Bravado, will be back for some other bands.

What a band! Brilliant from start to finish...two encores and we still wanted more. Very slick, excellent sound, great vocals, brilliant guitar work. So close to the real thing.

Wow! That was my reaction to the opening track, and many times throughout the evening. For 3 quietly spoken Yorkshiremen these guys made a lot of noise. Superb musicians and amazing replication of distinctive Rush sound - especially the vocals. Even friends who knew no Rush tracks said they were amazing. Hopefully the small audience were appreciative enough to bring them back again (not in the summer holidays next time!) Thanks Philip and Co. (Bravado)

BRAVADO, playing a tribute to RUSH (Friday,12th.August,2011) are the best band I've ever seen at Tropic at Ruislip. The three Yorkshire lads playing their first gig 'within the M25' treated a smallish but very knowledgeable and wildly appreciative audience to a stunning display of musical virtuosity that really captured the Spirit of Rush. This was Classic Rock at its very best!

RUSH have been described as the Rolls Royce of Rock and Heavy Metal and Bravado did them more than justice and then some!

With such an awesome back catalogue to choose from it's difficult to please everyone, but from "Spirit of Radio" through to "Working Man" they covered most of the bases from 70's beginnings to late 80's, which included great interpretations of classics such as "Temples of Syrinx", "The Trees" and "Tom Sawyer" amongst many others. They even came back for a couple of encores!

Bravado were musically superb. The guitar soloing was out of this world and really did seem to make Time stand Still. The singer playing bass and keyboards was also outstanding hitting just the right range vocally. The drummer, however, was a revelation and his seven minute solo, late on, was a percussion masterclass.

A lot of bands would save RUSH's most famous song "Tom Sawyer" (a personal favourite) for a finale, but Bravado had the professional confidence to place it early in the first half of their set and build on it.

To summarise, this was an excellent show delivered with style, guile and a big smile. Heart warming stuff indeed!!

To those who missed this gig, for whatever reason -- this was an absolute treat, so check them out if and when they (hopefully) return to Tropic. For any non-Rush music fans, this is a "Road to Damascus" job. You will be converted!
10/10. Highly Recommended.

P.S. Special mention to the Big Man driving the Desk. The sound balance was spot on. Great job! (Bravado)

Having been disappointed with the gig the previous week, I was a bit dubious about seeing a tribute act of one of my favourite bands, Rush.

Rush's music can be incredibly complex and would take three very professional musicians to get it right. Luckily that’s exactly what we got from Bravado, at times I was forgetting it wasn’t the real thing, absolutely fantastic.

The only disappointment was that so many people missed out on this great gig. I am hoping the come back next year, as I certainly will and drag others with me.

Well what can I say? I was lucky enough to see The 'Real' Rush in May and last night for me was like a repeat of that gig. From their opening track 'Spirit Of Radio' (what else) till their last ' Bytor and the Snowdog' (when have you last heard that covered) they were Fantastic. I am married to a bass player who happens to be a Rush 'nut' so I know and appreciate how complex most Rush tracks are and in my opinion these three guys, all superb musicians play the music of Rush perfectly. Please, Please Tropic get 'Bravado' back down South again as soon as possible and if You are a Rush fan and you missed this gig I urge you to check them out.

I turn up for most gigs here and think most of the bands are really good but never post on here but last night Bravado were brilliant, one of the best tribute bands I have seen, all three were great musicians with a great drum solo (I get bored with most drum solo's) they had the sound of Rush down to a tee.

I first got into Rush at school around the time of their Farewell to Kings album and caught them in UK a few times at Hammersmith Odeon but by the time of their Exit Stage Left LP I had done my own exit stage left. Their more recent stuff I liked the odd track but their old stuff is what does it for me.

So I was curious when tribute band Bravado turned up to rock the Tropic last night.
Suffice to say like Rush themselves they were superb musicians and probably one of the best bands Phil has ever had at The Tropic.

They announced at the start they only play the old stuff and they capped the night off with an encore of By Tor and the Snow Dog!

It was a good crowd last night but there should have been more to see this band. If you were not there and Phil gets them back next year or sooner do not miss them.

It's the first review I've ever sent in my life but I just have to comment on last night's gig, Bravado, the Rush tribute band. I love my evenings at the Tropic anyway but for me, personally, last night was the best band yet! How lucky that they agreed to travel from Yorkshire to play for us all. I really hope they will repeat the journey again next year. Their performance was amazingly superb in every way.

Thank you for supplying such high quality bands at such an excellent venue.

Bravado played the most fantastic gig I have ever seen in my life, loud! wow! Three absolutely brilliant musicians, Still cant believe how good they were, everyone who was there was totally gobsmacked, if you missed it, my commiserations. I only hope they come back again one day. Remember BRAVARDO, Rush tribute stunning!!!

I think the only way to describe this gig is Obscene.... there is no way in a million years that a guy of that age (25) should have that amount of virtuosity! Take all the best aspects of blues, rock and jazz put them in a blender and you will have something that starts to to sound akin to this amazing artist. All the material was "home grown" and would not be out of place in the repertoire of people like Eric Clapton, Joe Satriani, (the late) Garry Moore or Alvin Lee. Jay Tamkin has speed when appropriate, and a feeling and fluency is his playing which is a joy to behold. To any budding guitarists... seeing Jay play will do one of two things, make to strive a lot harder or make you hang you guitar up on the wall. To make matters even worse the kid can sing with great feeling and has the looks to go with it. Jay proves that Britain HAS got Talent, sadly plonkers like Simon Cowell are too thick to recognise true talent.
 

Finally, after years of trying to get Are You Experienced booked for The Rayners Hotel, Tythe Farm, Hayes Football Club, they arrived at The Tropic @ Ruislip, our new and best ever local venue.  What a fantastic night and thanks to all of the band for signing their poster, which is now on my studio wall. There were quite a few in-Experienced in the audience, who were very glad they made the effort to travel a long way to see the band and they were amazed to hear Jimi's music played as if he were in the venue with us. "If my baby don't love me no more....I know, her grandmother will" priceless.

Really enjoyed Kins of Leon last Friday. Been wanting to try Tropic for a couple of years, last two Decembers intended to go to Rollin Stoned but illness and weather conspired against me. The band were excellent, especially considering they had a session guitarist (thought it was a bit weird he had a music stand for the tunes). The lead singer was a good laugh, when tribute band members take it too seriously in 'being' their heroes it can be a bit weird, but he was having fun with it as in doing a bit of Elvis during Molly's Chambers and what I think was a fast show reference in going on about Boutros Boutros Gali during an extended version of Spiral Staircase (my favourite Kings of Leon tune which they don't play anymore).

Also, the sound was excellent. It is the first time in years that I have not put ear-plugs in while listening to a gig. Clear and precise with a substantial bass.

We'll be back. The wife only went because it was a Kings of Leon but was suspicious of going to a social club. She loved it, so much so she insisted on going to the compare (me I guess Philip) and thanking him for putting the night on, before we left early to get our buddy on the last tube. Now I've got her to Tropic, will be easy to return for more in the future.

Great night again. Quality group on once more, the Kins of Leon played a superb gig. Loads of album tracks then the two big hits in 2nd half. Certainly know how to get the crowd active. Recommend seeing them when next on. Can't wait for my next trip down from Luton to see another top act. Thanks Phil and the team , keep it going. JOHN.

In my opinion one of the best bands I've seen at Tropic at Ruislip (The Riotous Brothers)  Can't understand why more people don't come on a Saturday

Saw The Clashed and The Pistols last night. Great night and both cracking bands! Congratulations on a good night.

Saw the Clashed and Pistols last night. Thought it was great show. That combo again please

Great gig last night, truly unforgettable (Unforgettable Fire)

This was the 3rd time I have seen Samtana at The Tropic. They blew me away the previous times when there were just a handful of us and this was even better!
They are superb musicians who play note perfect with passion, feeling and humour and make you feel sooooo good! They are what live music should be all about!
Great that finally had the crowd they deserve. Get them back as quickly as you can Phil!

For any one in a tribute band or thinking of forming such a band you must go and see Samtana first. If your band is not as good as Samtana then don't bother.

Just a quick note to say that the Dizzy Lizzy gig was amongst the best Rock gigs that I've been to in a long while! Just a superb, full blooded performance with absolutely zero going through the motions. Please let's not wait another two years to get them back again...

The longer I have thought about it the better the feeling from a performances at last nights gig FANTASTIC
Thanks for getting Willie Nile back not sure why I missed him last year!

Despite getting on in years I always thought I kept up to date with the music scene, or, at least my "type" of music. How wrong I was. How could Willie Nile have stayed off my radar all these years ?

Anyway thanks to you guys at the Tropic, my son and I had a truly wonderful time last night watching Willie live. Superlatives are easy to write but couldn't do justice to the man and his band. Without a doubt the greatest night EVER at the Tropic. And, what a nice guy stopping to talk and sign copies of his CDs- yeah I bought two (and I know I'll be buying more ). I told him that I'd seen both the Hold Steady and The Drive By Truckers in the last few months and that he was right up with them IMHO. Maybe I did Willie an injustice - he was probably better. And how come his records don't sell more? His songs are incredible.

Anyway Tropic just get him back !!! The opening act was great too, Micky Kemp.

Thanks again for a truly great night and the IPA at £2 a pop was much appreciated too

Many thanks for putting on the Willie Nile gig last night. A fantastic show from start to finish and a good turnout (hopefully enough to justify the Wednesday night experiment).
Very impressed at the end when he came straight off stage to sign Cds and personally thanked everyone as they left , the guy is class

Just to say what a great night on Friday! The replication of the original Eagles sound was awesome. I think the hardest part for matching the original band is the vocals. They (The Alter Eagles) did not fail to deliver. All the band members blended superbly plus the lead vocal was spot-on in my view.

I missed them last year so I was very keen to be here this year and I am so glad that I did. I overheard someone say they thought that this year's gig was better than last year's. Will definitely back to see them plus as many fans as I can muster. Another good night at The Tropic!

Really enjoyed (Counterfeit) Quo -wasn't sure if would get fed up of the usual stuff ...but loved all they played- forgot how varied some of their music was. Thank you

Just a quick note to say that I think the Buzz Lightweights were absolutely brilliant last night. It was a great evening. Thanks very much
 

Absolutely fabulous night. (Buzz Lightweights) Thanks to all was better than a Guns 'n Roses tribute band by a long shot. Well done one of best nights I have had down at Tropic'.

Roadhouse - Saturday, March 19th. WOW!!
What a band. Superb musicianship. Great personalities. Two great female singers. Superb guitarists. Really tight drums and bass. Amazing "original" songs plus one or two unbelievable covers!! Bring 'em back soon. That's for sure. Whatever you did last Saturday...... You would have better off at this gig!!!

All Right Now were by far and away (and by quite some margin) the finest Free/Paul Rodgers/Bad Company tribute I've ever seen!! In fact Roy (guitarist) recognised me from when the band had played The New Bull & Butcher for Mr. Feenstra a good two or so years ago (he'd cut his hair since so I hadn't recognised him - fortunately I hadn't cut mine)! Back then they had a different (recent ex-Jeff Beck Band) bassist and singer (ex-Cozy Powell's Forcefield) but were similarly quite superb. Paul Cox's Fire And Water may be super well established but ARN had a far better feel for the music and its delivery in my opinion - the guitar playing (and sounds) were out-of-this-world good! Johnny Warman did real justice to the material (as well as communicating with the audience as only he can) and the rhythm section were super solid and accomplished. Please move heaven and earth to get them back!!

Absolute cracker of a gig on Friday (All Right Now), the best band I have seen in all the visits I have made to your excellent venue, and I have enjoyed quite a few ! Mr Warman was in excellent voice, his passion for the music of Free & Bad Company was obvious, and he was backed by three extremely talented musicians, especially the drummer and guitarist who would grace any stage, coupled with superb sound (well done to Phil) made it a terrific evening -please try to get them back - anytime at all.

Only gripe - the ignorant baskets in the back, left corner of the room, who never stopped rabbiting, despite being asked by one brave sole to let others enjoy the band. Appreciate you do not want to alienate your customers, but perhaps before you announce the band on stage, you should make it clear to everyone, that the room is for music, and if they want to spend the
night chatting (loudly) to their friends, then there is a lounge area just outside the door - they are welcome back in when they wish to actually listen to the band. Many thanks to you all for bringing such fantastic music to the area, week after week - long may you continue. David 

Just to add my comments about the Black Dogz - I thought they were brilliant and I am not even a Led Zep fan and just came along to keep a friend company.  Also really agree with you about the singer though thought all band members were good in their own right.  You'd have no idea that they are a new band.  I'd come again if they played the Tropic.

Really enjoyed The Black Dogz. Singer was excellent as were the rest of the band. Great to see a band not just play the obvious Zeppelin tracks. Looking forward to seeing them again.

Another great gig, I come from Luton to your gigs but well worth the journey. Black Dogz were fantastic and lead guitarist brilliant. Seen 3 gigs now Roxy Magic , Fire and Water, definitely coming back for more 'cos we know the acts you get on are quality.

Absolutely brilliant, as good as the originals I saw play when in their prime. Black Dogz are all very talented musicians, and the singer has got Plant's voice exactly.
Best tribute band I've seen.

The Bonzos were exceptional!


What more can you say about a bunch of talented musicians who are also brilliant comedians and obviously barking!  The people who didn't come for whatever reason missed a gig of a lifetime and as you know I have seen a few.  Philip and team keep pushing the boundaries and I will give you every support I can.

I just wanted to say 'best gig ever' last Friday! Following your birthday party, we went to see The Mods a couple of times in Whetstone. We were so disappointed as they didn't have their usual line up on either occasion. But it was so good to see they were back to full strength last Friday and their former 'tight' (in the musical sense) selves!!  Be sure to let us know when they will be back over Xmas 2011 so we can book early!

Missed the first 10 mins - but as you said, great band, great gig, great crowd, great night - looking forward to replay at Xmas
(The Mods)

Ian Parker 5th December

We came to see the New Amen Corner last night on your recommendation. Can I say that it was one of the best nights we have had at Tropic'. It was like being transported back to the sixties. Great vocals and will definitely down next time they play. Once again many thanks for a great night out.

Good night was had by all as Bootleg Blondie belted out all the classics and a few lesser known gem's at the Vale last night. As it was my first gig at the Vale I cannot say whether this was a large crowd or not but seemed a reasonable size by 9.30pm as we eagerly awaited the arrival of Ms Harris. I was more than happy with the pre gig music as most seemed to fit the era/style of music to follow and when "Sometimes" by the Stranglers was played....well. My guess as the set starter was proved correct as "Denis, Denis" kicked us off into a very energetic first half which carried a superb mixture of the bands hits and lesser known album tracks.

I didn't think there was much left to do after the break but they carried on in the same vain and over the whole hour and forty or so minutes on stage they crammed in hits such as "the tide is high", "dreaming","union city blue", "atomic", "call me", "pretty baby", "picture this" and many more. Personal fave's were "in the flesh" which I thought she delivered very well and "i'm on e" which was a blast. Also impressed me with a phone microphone for "hanging on the telephone" which was clever and I don't know who else spotted that on the bottom of the phone was a reference to a club in New York(CBGB) where they played early in their career ..nice touch. Only let down for me was "Maria" which sounded a bit strained but all in all great fun and musically the band sounded pretty good. Lead guitarist had a laugh with a couple of wannabee guitarists nearby and a stage invader who managed to nick a kiss off of the drummer. Also noticed a signature of the real drummer for Blondie (Clem Burke) on the kit. Good fun and recommend a visit next time they appear at the "Vale"

Guns 4 Hire, emulating arguably the most 'explosive' hard rock act of the 80s Guns n Roses. Things werent looking good on paper when their usual Axl Rose imposter had to pull out with a personal issue (rather like the real thing then!), so rather than simply throw the towel in, a last minute replacement was flown in from Hungary to front the band. He'd never performed with them before, and you could sense the slight unease in the group, but to say they all raised their game was an understatement. Classics such as 'Paradise City', 'Welcome to the Jungle' 'November Rain' were faithfully reproduced, with the lead singer often charging about in the crowd, popping to the bar for a beer, whilst still performing.

Top stuff, and I must say out of the 6 gigs I've been to, all have been excellent.

I made a lastminute.com decision to go to this and wasn't disappointed. I knew it was going to be a good night when 'Axl Rose' bounded onto stage wearing a 2004 era Hungary football shirt! As already mentioned he flew in from Budapest yesterday just to perform at The Vale with no prior practice with the band (though we only found this out once the gig had started). That makes the show they put on even more impressive, and those that like their music LOUD would have enjoyed it.

Highlight for me was the 9 minute long epic 'November Rain', which is a rock n roll classic. Work commitments mean I can't get to as many of these nights as I want, but those I go to are always enjoyable. As somebody mentioned in jest, "Bring back the line dancing on a Friday night instead!" The words chalk and cheese spring to mind. Long may Tropic at The Vale continue their success story.
(Guns 4 Hire)

Who needs Glastonbury when you've got Samtana at Tropic. Another brilliant show by a great band. I can only echo the review from last years appearance. Absolutely awesome! These guys are so cool and very, very SMOOTH. Looking forward to the next visit. Excellent. N.B.

What an excellent band! Rhapsody were musically brilliant. Our friends and I had a great evening - slightly marred by the pre-gig football match//Band were excellent, another good night at RSC//A great night. The band were brilliant last night. 

The Pat McManus Band (Ireland), delivered one of the most professional and convincing evenings of guitar led, original Hard Rock/Heavy Blues that it has been my privilege to witness ever. Lovers of 1970's/1980's hard rockers such as Micheal Schenker, Gary Moore and Pat Travers would have loved this gig!! Pat threw in a spellbinding acoustic reading of Rory Gallagher's "Return Of The G Man", to boot. Those that missed this show should be ashamed of themselves - they missed the proverbial musical boat big time!! Darren Wisdom

What a fantastic weekend of music at the Tropic. Just a shame there were not more people around.

Friday night brought back the brilliant and thoroughly entertaining Larry Miller, a must see in my book, both for the music, and the between song chat. Whatever he's on, I want some!

Sunday night was a revelation. I knew nothing of Storm Warning until then, and was blown away by them. Bought a couple of CDs and can't stop playing them. Those that stayed at home missed a real treat, and I hope you get them back soon (on a Friday) with a big audience. They deserve it.

I was taking photos at the Larry Miller gig, so here's the link for you to take a peek

Keep up the good work.

Now that really was a GREAT night (A short but sweet review of Fire and Water!)

Saw Fire and Water last night. A great band from start to finish. Having never seen Zeppelin live it was great to hear their music played so well and great vocals considering there is only one Robert Plant. Thanks to all at the Tropic for another great night. Mark.

Thanx yet again ! to George , Philip and the tropic crew. The Hamsters were excellent, not their normal stuff but an enjoyable night, great friendly crowd as usual, brilliant service (and beer!). Hope to see y'all soon. John (and the boys and girls from The Swallow)

Space Ritual Gig Review

Page regarding Like.....The Beatles

(The Floyd Effect) Absolutely superb from start to finish. Every band member playing their part from musicians to the backing girls. What a great night of music. A great tribute to the Floyd. Please get them back again because the only fault was it had to end. Thanks. Mark.

(Ben Waters) An excellent evening. What a superb musician – easily the best you’ve had there (from those I've seen so far). Thanks for organising it.

Thanks again for another brilliant night of music @ Tropic (Friday, 9th. October) Samtana are like sunshine on a cloudy day and played a fabulous set of classic SANTANA music, which leaves you with a warm glow inside.

The purity of tone and precision soloing of the guitarist "Carlos" was a joy to behold, as was the muscular drumming and powerhouse percussion playing. The singer was great also, with terrific dynamic presence, and being able to double on sax was a big bonus. The multi rhythms were anchored by a solid and pulsating bass, the line-up being augmented by some stylish
Hammond organ grooves.

The set itself centred primarily around the first three SANTANA albums - "SANTANA", "ABRAXAS" and "SANTANA 3" and gave us superb renditions of SE A CABO, OYE COMO VA, TOUSSAINT L'OVERTURE and a personal mid-point high point of the peerless SAMBA
PA TI (Samba For You). Famous SANTANA covers included BLACK MAGIC WOMAN (Fleetwood Mac), SHE'S NOT THERE (Zombies) and the not so well known THEM CHANGES (Jimi Hendrix & Band of Gypsies). Later mid period SANTANA was represented by LET THE CHILDREN PLAY (from FESTIVAL) and the set closer was a storming SOUL SACRIFICE, which was an absolute percussion tour-de-force!

The encore was JINGO and SMOOTH which perfectly encapsulated the 'ancient & modern' (1st Album & Supernatural).

To summarise this was an excellent gig played to a small, but knowledgeable and highly appreciative audience (bring your friends next time - they missed a treat!) It was marvellous to see a BAND that loves playing the music we all love.

LOVE MUSIC, LOVE SAMTANA! 10/10. Highly Recommended.

I was a Never The Bride "virgin" until last Friday. What an incredible band. They put their whole being into their performances.

I purchased their DVD on the way out and played it the following day. What a great souvenir to add to my ever growing collection of top live music DVD's.

Thought the band were excellent, first time seeing them and certainly lived up to my expectations would see them again (Never The Bride)

Absolutely loved the gig at last Friday, Larry Miller & the band were on fire. Had seen them briefly once before supporting Walter Trout so thought I'd take a better look, and was well pleased that I did.

A was taking photos at the gig and have put some of the better ones on my website. Thought you may like to see them, so if you're interested, take a look here

Thanks for a great evening of entertainment last Friday, and hopefully I'll be just as happy after Never The Bride this Friday.

You can read a full review of the Beached Boys gig here (links to external site)

SURFS UP !! What a fantastic gig on Friday. The band were superb, really entertaining, and the joint was a rockin' !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! We all came away with that "feelgood factor" It just gets better and better each week. (shame I forgot my surf board) Keep music live!!!! Cheers
JB (and the ladies from Marlow)
 (Beached Boys).

Thanks for a lovely evening last night. We all had such fun and will definitely be back. The Band were great and even put up with extra members on stage how fantastic were they? (Beached Boys).

hi, George, Philip and crew. BRILLIANT GIG !!!!!!!!!!!!  Ian Terry was absolutely superb
Mac Poole and Blues Joe X were equally as entertaining. More of the same please

Just a few words regarding the New Amen Corner gig which I had the pleasure of attending with five friends.

I offer the opinion that this band are without doubt one of the very best of their type on the circuit.

They manage to wow the audience with amazing versions of the late 60's period ('67/'69), but without touching on any Beatles, Rolling Stones or Who material!

In lead singer Glen Leon they have probably the finest new vocalist I have personally witnessed in the last decade. Who needs Andy Fairweather Low??!!

The high level of musicianship throughout the band is evident, and my friends and I will certainly return to The Tropic (in a bigger crowd) when they inevitably return.

They deserved a bigger audience. Believe me, next time they'll get one.

Who's Who were great, I've seen them a few times and they were better on your slightly larger stage than they have been in the Horns or Half Moon. They seemed happier too. Anyway all-in-all, a bloody good night. Especially when, at the end, Gary mentioned the bloke who was nagging them about Magic Bus because that was me.

Hi, George, Philip and the crew. What an excellent gig! (Who's Who) Thanx yet again for a superb evening the drummer had moon the loon off to a tee. See y'all at the Beached Boys. 
KEEP ON ROCKIN' IN THE FREE WORLD !!!!! Regards JB

The Beached Boys: - Wow, what a fantastic night, we are all still surfing this morning. Still telling our friends about the ‘unfortunate’ appearance of one of the real Beach Boys (pic. below, David Marks far left). Thanks for being there, it was a great night all round.

Touch2Much (now called AC DC UK) From the "death metal" voice announcing something momentous about to happen and the arresting off-stage guitar riffs, we were captivated! What a tribute, what a band!

They engaged the audience from the very first note and held us in thrall for two blissful hours until the final chords of "Highway To Hell" faded away.

In every way, this was a perfect gig; the Band put on a magnificent performance - the lead guitarist was enviably athletic, moving easily from stage to table-top, around the bar and through the audience, without missing a note, altogether awe-inspiring; the singer delivered an inspired selection of excellent songs; rhythm and bass guitarists and the drummer were masters of their instruments and lent the very best support to vocals. Their collective enjoyment of their musicianship was communicated to the audience throughout and made the whole evening a wonderful experience.

Those of us who felt cheated when "The Rayners" was closed are thrilled to find a local music venue - thank you and long may "Tropic" reign!

Sorry I was unable to use the individual names of the Band members, the system I am able to use doesn't allow in-depth research - my apologies, gentlemen, you were magnificent!

Congratulations and thanks for a great show Friday 3rd April. "Touch2Much" are the best AC/DC  tribute band I've ever seen. They worked hard, played hard, and really rocked the joint! A very professional set covered the whole spectrum of the AC/DC catalogue, and a highly energetic performance caught the true essence of the band. They were great fun and hugely entertaining and they don't take themselves too seriously! Well done Daz and the boys.

Hope to see them here again. Highly Recommended. (Touch too Much are now AC/DC - UK).

 

Had to e-mail you and say what a fantastic gig it was last Friday (Juicy Lucy). For all the people that were not there they don't know what they missed.

The guitar solos were the most creative I've ever seen. His technique and style was amazing. If this wasn't enough the drum solo was incredible and all this held together with a great bass player. I'll defiantly being seeing them again. PH.

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Tropic at Ruislip was co-founded by George McFall, who sadly died on 7th October 2010. Read the history of Tropic At Ruislip here
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