Disco legends Odyssey are taking to our stage for what promises to be an energetic and boogie-licious experience.
Odyssey was one of the most successful soul/disco acts from the late 70s to the 80s.
The hit run started in 1977 with Native New Yorker and continued with dance anthems If You’re Looking For a Way Out, Inside Out, Going Back To My Roots, and the chart-topping Use It Up And Wear It Out.
Originally billed as The Lopez Sisters, the group was in fact three sisters – Lillian, Louise and Carmen. Carmen left and was replaced by Tony Reynolds and the band was renamed Odyssey.�While enjoying their greatest hits, behind the scenes there was a young man who was acting as a backing musician and musical director. Steve Collazo (pictured) was Lillian’s eldest son and today he co-fronts the band with the current line-up of himself, Kate ‘Kay Jay’ Sutherland and Michelle John.
Now permanently based in the UK, Steve tells me that he never really joined the band. “No, I can’t really say if I ever actually joined the band. I’ve been there since its inception, my brothers and I were in the background all the time.
And the highlights? “There’s been so many.” Steve smiled. “To have ownership of the legacy is great, and it’s all about the songs and performances. Back in the day, the live show was about 60% devised by me and I’ve grown into it, putting my own stamp on it and I haven’t corrupted it in any way. And to have my own work and songs being performed is fantastic.”
Steve promised a great show. “Firstly, I have to say that the band is great. “We’re a party band and the audience is usually on its feet from the get-go. You’ll hear all the classic hits, at least one or two ‘rare grooves’ (songs that were not necessarily hit, but are very popular), and some covers from the disco era.”
Steve admitted to having a favourite Odyssey song. “Yes, it may sound vain or conceited, but my favourite is Sooner Or Later. I co-wrote it with Romena Johnson in the nineties and what I like most about it is that it captures the Odyssey spirit. Old School meets New School meets Old School. I feel warm and fuzzy when I hear and sing it. Of the classic Odyssey songs, I’d say – reservedly – Inside Out.
“What’s really great about the shows these days is that the youngsters come to them. It amazes me to see so many young people – they absolutely love it. Of course, today will be the good old days for this generation, so to be a part of that is amazing.”
For the future, Steve told me he is going to carry on. “Yeah, I want to take it higher and keep doing what I’m doing. Of course, I’ll have to look after myself as I get a bit older. This year is the 45th anniversary of our big hits and it’s great to be able to mix new music with the classics.”
Taken from an interview with The Beat Magazine: www.beat-magazine.co.uk
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