The Gents
The Gents

Tracks:

1. Out Of Tone (4:50)
2. Modern Girls (4:27)
3. Don't Let Me (3:10)
4. Don't Ask Me (4:00)
5. You're So Young (2:45)
6. Picnic In Paris (3:12)
7. Deaf Speech (3:17)
8. Nobody Nobody (2:23)
9. Roxy Bar (2:22)
10. So Messed Up (2:38)
11. Passing Days (2:51)

All songs composed by Kevin Reed

Arranged and produced by Kevin Reed
Engineered by Peter Hubner & Peter Mason

Musicians:

• Kevin Flame: Guitars, vocals, lyrics and melodies
• Sydne B Good: Drums, stylistics
• Tim Rocker: Bass

Release information:

1982, Rap (SRLP C15)

Review:

The Gents consisted of Kevin Flame, Tim Rocker and Sydne B Good and their album features Jo Day on backing vocals. They produced one single ('School Kids') in 1980 and an eponymous album in 1982 which was produced by Chris Scott. Aside from this there is precious little information about this late 70's early 80's New Wave band from Durban.

It's a shame really that so little notice was taken of them as their album shows that they had an ear for melody and an impressive ability with a guitar. The songs are measured rock with more than a hint of punk. Flame's soft, somewhat breathy vocals burn slowly throughout and keep a gentlemanly feel to the album. If you're looking for comparisons, think the Dolly Rockers first album or a toned down Asylum Kids.

A reggae guitar brings a lilt to 'Don't ask Me' while 'Nobody Nobody' and 'Roxy Bar' have a wonderful rockabilly sound to them. 'You're So Young' is another standout track which will have you singing along with the catchy chorus in no time. The closing 'Passing Days' is a sad (synth) piano led tune that ends suddenly and leaves you wanting more.

Despite the album being a controlled and well produced affair, judging by the pictures on the sleeve, The Gents look like they were a colourful, energetic and probably quite loud live act with a fair following. 'The Gents' is another in a rather long lists of overlooked SA albums which will probably never see the light of day again, but if you ever track it down in a second-hand record shop, my advice is quite simple buy it.

John Samson, SA Rockdigest #158, June 2002

Webpage: The Gents

All info supplied by John Samson, June 2002.