AUCKLAND, Today (Review by Scott Pryor): The behemoth rocket ship that is BOTAB blasted off last night at Galatos in Auckland as agencies put on a spectacle lauded as “the best yet” by Radio Hauraki’s Matt Heath.
Fellow judge Leigh Hart was hard-pressed to find words in English to describe the pleasure the performances gave him. “Mucho Grande New Zealand,” he shouted to the agency revellers as they blew off steam.
Last year’s champions, The Signoffs’ MkII, were strong and tight with songbird Jess Woodward singled out by the judges for a prize.
“Greg Partington dazzled the crowd with his jacket and talent on the ivories.”
However it was Colenso that took out this year’s title with their entry Kill Enzo. They filled the stage with a full line-up – including a sax section – and rocked the crowd with their takes on Radio Ga Ga, Bennie and the Jets and wildcard song, Paul Simon’s You Can Call Me Al.
Their spirit and presence won the judges over. Digi producer Todd Wright, who led the band on vocals and bass, said this morning: “We’re looking a little worse for wear – but we’re stoked to take the title against such stiff competition.”
Flying Fish also stood out for the judges, and for my money Greg Page’s performance in Fish Taco’s engine room on drums was a standout.
And Greg Partington dazzled the crowd with his jacket and talent on the ivories for Stanley St’s I’m Still Stanley.
The event was really well hosted by the Comms Council and Fish with a food truck setup and plenty of prizes, refreshments and Moore ice cream, thanks to James Moore.
KILL ENZO CREDITS
Lead Vocals/Bass Guitar: Todd Wright
Keys/Vocals: Lizzie McCollum
Drums: Matt Barnes
Tenor Sax: Elsi Gibbs
Alto Sax: James Baker
Lead Vocals: Ellie Richards
Guitar: Paul Buckton
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