Cheap as Chips is Grand

10th March 2008 - c/o The Press

A beautiful morning greeted the Garden City yesterday, bringing the promise of a great day in the sunshine listening to the sounds of some of Aotearoa's best musical acts at this year's Cheap as Chips concert, held at the University Oval.

Upon arrival hip hop/funk act Solaa was entertaining the 2000-plus audience, with guest vocalist Lisa Tomlins, who was accompanied by a 10-piece line-up which included rhythm section, percussion along with new drummer the wonderful Myele Manzanza (Olmecha Supreme).

Following up, the crowd favourite for the day, The Black Seeds, put on their usual fine performance, finishing up just as the weather began to deteriorate.

Putting on a brave face, Wellington electro rockers Charlie Ash seemingly undeterred by the rapidly dropping temperatures, played a rollicking upbeat set of sparse techno-influenced rock and roll, warming up the remaining punters.

Fellow Wellingtonian Disasteradio's solo act was also greeted with willing dancers, as the perfect segue into the main and final act for the day, Auckland rockers The Checks.

Showcasing songs from their recent release, Hunting Whales, and soon to appear at the Whitianga Blues Festival, this blues-influenced five-piece managed to captivate and enliven the crowd. They gave a second wind to everyone, ending the day on a high, even if chilly, note.

MC duties throughout the day was nicely taken care of by Sticky Fingaz, with a selection of RDU98.5FM Djs, keeping the blood flowing between sets.

Despite being down on numbers this year, Cheap as Chips is nevertheless a grand day out for all.

It was an opportunity for many to view a veritable smorgasbord of fantastic New Zealand talent.

Music was definitely the winner on the day.

www.stuff.co.nz/thepress/

For photo's from the day see...

www.fabel.co.nz
www.christchurchmusic.org.nz/content/festivals-4
www.myspace.com/charlieash