When you mention the name Glenn Gregory you instantly get taken into early 80’s crisp suits and Top of the pops. In his own right, he’s an 80’s icon with Heaven 17 alongside Martin Ware and Ian Craig Marsh.
The side project which started before Bowie died, named Holy Holy, also has another legend in music attached to it. Tony Visconti was one of David Bowies closest friends and confidents as well as one of musics great producers and performers. The band was formed to perform “The man who sold the world” album which never toured because Bowies management split his band up before it could happen. Now its gone from strength to strength and provides an outlet for Bowie fans.
The performance in front of a full Philharmonic was exceptionally well put together rolling back the years through the thin white dukes back catalogue with great musicality, Gregory’s vocals were strong and on point, the rest of the band, which included Visconti’s and Mary Hopkins daughter, Jessica Lee Morgan( who also provided support act duties), delivered strong crafted performances. The guitarists were excellent and when a band has Tony Visconti on bass guitar then you know you’re in for a show!
Gregory and Visconti also shared some moving stories about Bowie around the time of his death. The band were touring North America and arrived in Toronto when they heard the news of the great mans passing. They made the decision to perform that night to a crowd of thousands in tears, you can imagine the emotion.
Last night certainly had emotion, as well as big highs when the crowd sang along to hits such as Rebel Rebel and Oh! you pretty things amongst a string of classics.
All together a brilliant night was had by all and sundry. Apparently they never do a third encore but did in Liverpool.
Words and Photos: Ian Digilogue