The Zombies - Bears Den at Seneca Niagara Casino, Niagara Falls, NY - Sept 10, 2011
Saturday, September 17, 2011 at 11:01PM 
Review by Jack Pieri Photos by Gail Fahey
Niagara Falls, NY - And the beat goes on...in 'Zombie' land Heaven! The 60's were like one big spaceship, which came and went far too quickly. But if you were able to catch a glimpse of the legendary Beat group, the Zombies, during their current 50th Anniversary tour, you can attest to the fact the spirit of the 'British Invasion' is alive and well, mate.
Together, co-founding original members, Colin Blunstone (lead vocals) and Rod Argent (keyboards and vocals), were accompanied by the top-notch musicianship of Jim Rodford (bass), Steve Rodford (drums), and Tom Toomey (guitar). The boys of undisputed influential and revered fame, performed an unforgettable evening of dreamlike vocal harmonies, layered on top of, eternally brilliant, classic pop, musical melodies.
Their near pitch perfect vocals were showcased on songs like the underrated gem, "Care Of Cell 44," after which, Colin Blunstone shared some humorous anecdotes regarding being jet lagged, and forgetting the correct lyrics to the songs. Blunstone reassured the audience by saying, "Give me another 40 years, and I'll have it down pat."
The group shined brighter than ever on the powerful pair of masterpiece classics, "Tell Her No" and the slightly more up-tempo, "She's Not There." Both were indeed highlights from the 100 minute set, and subtly showcased a more 'groovy' soul side of the group, in a most excellent way.
By far, before the grand finale, it was the uproariously intense, "Hold Your Head Up," that really brought the full house down. The standout moment was owned by Rod Argent, as he passionately played an extended, and quite animated keyboard solo, leaving us all mystified beyond belief. This magical milestone show concluded on just the right note, as they performed a heartfelt cover of the George Gershwin classic,"Summertime." It was sort of ironic that they played this song last, as it was the first song that the Zombies ever recorded.
In the immortal words of the Rod Argent penned anthem, "God Gave Rock and Roll To You," He "Put it in the soul of everyone." And that means you! All hail the almighty Zombies! Amen.
