PALACE THEATRE, NEWARK (2008)
'NEWARK ADVERTISER' (March, 2008)
One of the most charted female singers of the past 25 years performed for a packed audience at Newark's Palace Theatre on Saturday.
Elkie is no stranger to the town having performed here on numerous occasions. She is probably best known for her single 'Pearl's A Singer' which was a hit in 1977, though she was well known for her performances alongside another future star Robert Palmer, in the early 1970's in a band called Vinegar Joe.
That was all before I was born but she is one of my dad's favourite singers, so I knew she must be good. I actually interviewed her last year when she performed in Orston in aid of Oliver's Army, a charity set up by a couple in memory of a child who died from a rare brain condition - the charity is advertised on the first page of her tour brochure.
She came across as a very down to earth character but unfortunately I was not able to hear her sing so when I realised she would be playing at the Palace, I immediately booked tickets.
Elkie Brooks is one of those singers who is difficult to categorise, blending jazz blues and rock with ease.
One thing is for sure she has a powerful crystal clear voice that makes you sit up and take notice.
From the moment 63 year old Elkie stepped onto the stage (in a figure-hugging grey dress and matching heels) it was clear she has no intention of slowing down.
She gyrated around the stage like someone half her age, performing songs from artists as diverse as Perry Como, Percy Sledge and Chris Rea as well as her own hits and new material, accompanied by an all male 6 piece band.
Her anthem, 'Pearl's A Singer', was greeted with rapturous applause with most of the audience knowing every word. Other songs that stood out were 'Lilac Wine' and 'Sunshine After The Rain'.
Between songs she chatted easily with the audience, some of whom were die-hard fans who apparently follow her wherever she goes.
After a short interval and change of outfit Elkie returned and the music became more bluesy.
The highlight came when Elkie sustained a note for a good minute and then raised the microphone over her head in triumph.
The evening finished with an encore of 'Out Of The Rain' and 'We've Got Tonight', followed by a well-deserved standing ovation.
As we were leaving the theatre, an usher turned to us and said "I don't know what she's on, but I'd like some of it". I think that pretty much sums her up.
