FM and I took ourselves off to the Basement on Friday night for a look at the reunion tour of the great ’70’s country rock band “The Dingoes” – first time back together after last year’s inauguration into the Australian Rock Hall of Fame.  The band is as great today as it was back then – and is the same lineup except for the passing of the legendary John Lee.

Back together after 31 years, they’ve released a new album “Tracks” – a must buy for country rock fans.

The gig was great !  The (Melbourne) band was assisted by an old friend – Kevin Bennett – also the proud creator of a a new album “Solo” – check that out too..

Here’s a clip of the original Dingoes from 1973, playing “Way out West”.

And Brod Smith – the Dingoes founder (and with Kerryn Tolhurst (lap steel and lead guitars), the heart and soul of the band) recorded in 2007.  Chris Copping (former Procol Harum keyboard player) and Ashley Davis (drums) joined Chris Stockley (lead, slide and rhythm guitars) and John Bois (bass), rounding out a rich and smooth lineup.

Brod Smith played with “Carson” before he formed the Dingoes.  You might want to chase them up on Youtube too.

The stage patter was often hilarious with lots of geriatric self-spoofing jokes about getting old.  In the audience – up front – were some members of one of the other stalwart ’70’s bands – Greg Quill and Country Radio.  An unnamed member of their entourage fell asleep during some of the best pumping tunes … prompting Brod Smith to ask someone to find a pulse and get the roadies to bring in the breathing apparatus.

It was a great night !  The new album “Tracks” is really tight, like the days of old – and like many of the patrons at the Basement Friday might.

“Not worth fighting for” and “No rain, no river” were the standout tracks for me.

Have a good look for yourself over at  www.thedingoes.com.au .

In honour of their pal who had a little kip, here’s the most famous Country Radio clip – Gypsy Queen – sadly not readily available on disk.

Greg Quill and Country Radio

…. so get out there and catch them while they’re still alive and kicking.