Not the Searchers without the original band members. Not even close to the real deal. Same with the Hollies. Without Allan it's not the Hollies. Any legendary band that doesn't have there original band members should change the name. Nothing more disappointing than going to a concert and you don't know who the People on the stage are. The crowds expecting the original band members and all they're seeing is a bunch of people they never saw or heard of. For those that don't know any better buy the tickets and once they get to the venue they realize it's not what they were expecting. So Disappointing!!
Get your facts right Allen wasn't an original member and the hits had dried by the time he joined. They were never as good when Mike Pender left and was replaced by glorified pub singer Spencer James. Mike Penders Searchers were much better and you didn't have to put up with Allen's long winded unintelligible arrogant utterances between every song. Shame about John and Mike as both were really talented but allowed themselves to be bossed about by original drummer Chris Curtis. Both bands have their pluses but you can't beat the original lead guitar and lead vocalist Mike. Incidentally they were very good songwriters too, but due to bad management and awful record companies and a lack of confidence in their own ability weren't given the chance to expand their songwriting. A case of if only....
I have been proud to represent The Searchers for close to 50 years and although you are of course entitled to your opinion, I suggest that it is you who get your facts right! There is only one band known as The Searchers and they are touring once again in the UK from April to June 2024.
