Rockers Smokie to perform in Mizoram

Come Nov 24 and popular 1970s band Smokie, which gave us the hit "Living next door to Alice", will make their debut in India with a performance in Mizoram.

The show, to be held at the A.R. Ground in the northeastern state's capital Aizawl, will see the band crooning for the aid of the Spastic Society of Mizoram.

"We are very happy to bring Smokie for the first time to India," said John, the proprietor of Greyhound Finance, co-sponsors of the event along with event management group Jerry Inc.

"The band agreed at once when we invited them for our cause," John told IANS over the phone from Aizawl, adding that the group had also reduced their fee.

The tickets for the show are priced at Rs.1,000 and Rs.500.

John said there was euphoria in the state even though only bassist and backing vocalist Terry Uttley is left from the original band.

"The people in the northeast have a great longing for music, including western, and we expect a sell-out crowd."

Over the years, the band has undergone major changes with many of its members quitting. The current Smokie band comprises vocalist Mike Craft, bassist Terry Uttley, lead guitarist Mick McConnell, keyboard player Martin Bullard and percussionist Steve Pinnell.

Their other famous numbers include "If you think you know how to love" and "Don't play your rock 'n' roll to me".

This is the first time the spastic society has organised such a big event.

"On earlier occasions we organised shows by regional bands and also carol performances during Christmas," said Chhingpuii, secretary of the Spastic Society of Mizoram.

The society has more than 200 spastic, mentally challenged and hearing-impaired children.

"We sincerely hope the performance by Smokie will draw a good audience and fulfil our aim," she said.

(IANS)

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