Express & Star

Bilston's Robin 2 celebrates 25th anniversary with Soul Survivors party

Hundreds of people packed into the Robin 2 to celebrate the iconic venue’s 25th anniversary.

Published
The Soul Survivors

Bringing the music last night were The Soul Survivors: a talented six-piece who had the room dancing from start to end.

Star of the show was frontman Mel Day whose incredible vocals, high energy and great moves were reminiscent of the Godfather of Soul himself - James Brown.

And while he was tremendous on songs such as Papa’s Got A Brand New Bag, Mel also shone performing hits from other artists, such as Ben E King and The Temptations.

Backed by fellow great vocalist Glen Leon, Mel stormed through the set, singing hit after hit - with songs such as Mustang Sally, Knock On Wood, Soul Man and Sweet Soul Music going down an absolute treat.

And the band, complete with keys, sax, guitar and drums, were professional throughout, delivering a clean, solid sound for the entirety of their set.

All dressed in shades, silver-grey suit jackets, black shirts and trousers, the band looked like something fresh out of the 50s - but brought the sounds from a variety of ages with ease.

The Soul Survivors were the second band ever to play The Robin shortly after it opened all those years ago - so it was a celebration for them too, and it showed.

The atmosphere during the night was that of joy and elation, as fans and former staff members of a huge range of ages turned out to celebrate the venue.

A wonderful evening to mark a quarter of a century of The Robin. Long may it continue.