gigspot | Cameo

Earlier this week we (finally) got to see legendary funksters Cameo at the Jazz Cafe, after their dates were re-scheduled from the summer. I must admit I didn't realise quite how successful Cameo are; they have sold over 17 million records. Yowser. 

Some time after half past nine the band strolled past us, hit the stage and played for a few minutes before Larry Blackmon emerged from backstage to rapturous applause. He wore cod piece, hat and all, which I'm sure most would have been disappointed if absent, and his first utterance was his signature "owww". The funk was on. The band, with four original members, were as tight and as visually impressive as can be. Aaron Mills on bass looked like something out of ACDC and moved like Flea of the Red Hot Chili Peppers. A great showman.

---

 Anthony lockett, on rythm guitar, sang a great version of Sparkle. Charlie Singleton on lead produced some superb solos and took the best outfit award with his chrome face mask and bespoke chrome guitar, which looked like what I would imagine a guitar would look like if it had either been pimped on 'Pimp My Ride' or made by Orange County Choppers. Vocalist Tomi Jenkins' voice was great, as was Larry's who sounded exactly like I hoped he would! Hits like 'Word Up!' and 'Candy' went down very well, the latter inducing a pretty decent level of 'electric sliding' amongst the crowd (downstairs and up), but my favourites on the night were 'I Just Want To Be' and 'Keep It Hot'. Check them out below. All in all, a great night of funk - Cameo style. 

---