The Brill Building in Manhattan, New York, was only operating for 6 short years, but during those productive years, it was the birthplace of modern music. Covering the work of such greats as Neil Sedaka, Carol King, Gerry Goffin, Ellie Greenwich, Barry Mann, Neil Diamond, Bobby Darin, and many more, this show is full of music history. Revealing the connections and the influence of these composers whilst treating us to a version of many of their hits created in the hot house of the Brill Building.

Individually Michael Griffiths, Amelia Ryan, and Michaela Burger are all successful artists and the combination of their talents makes the show sparkle. Playing mostly well-known songs with a few lesser-known gems thrown in, they start with a great version of Rock Around The Clock. The big hits that followed were too many to list but I enjoyed their take on Up On The Roof, Oh Carol, and even Who Put The Bomp, We Gotta Get Out Of This Place, and Uptown.

These performers have the ability to switch between the vast musical styles these songs are written in, treating us to the Rock ‘n’ Roll tunes that many of us remember. Memorable moments were Michaela’s rendition of Carol King’s hit Natural Woman, and Amelia Ryan charmed one lucky audience member, and the rest of us, with a great version of Leader Of The Pack, complete with motorbike sounds! Michael shone in You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling. Their take on Chapel Of Love had the audience singing along and everybody joined with River Deep Mountain High.

Behind all of these great songs was a tight ensemble that had Michael Griffiths on the keys, alongside Flick Freeman on bass, John McDermott on drums, Tom Kneebone playing some slick guitar, and featuring Emile Roach with some great solos on saxophone.

Michael Griffiths shared with us that this was their last outing at the Adelaide Fringe after three successful years, so if this music is the playlist to your youth (or if you just love the genre) make sure to catch one of the remaining shows.