BY MELISSA RUGGIERI/AJC Music Scene
So much for getting a fresh gander at a member of Spinal Tap.
Derek Smalls, the bassist for the fictional British heavy metal band, was slated for a June 29 solo appearance with the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra at Symphony Hall.
Alas, his “Lukewarm Water Live” show has been canceled.
All tickets will be refunded. Tickets from Ticketmaster.com will be automatically refunded to the credit card used for purchase. Tickets purchased in person must be returned to the original point of purchase for a refund.
A few weeks ago, Kaedy Kiely of 97.1 The River and I had a fun conversation with the delightfully deadpan Smalls (aka Harry Shearer) to discuss his upcoming shows.
Smalls recently released his solo debut, “Smalls Change,” which features an array of rock talent, including Steve Vai, Peter Frampton, David Crosby Joe Satriani, Donald Fagen and Dweezil Zappa.
When asked how well he knew any of his album guests, Smalls said, “Passing acquaintances at parties, at best. My producer and musical director, CJ Vanston, knows a lot of people. Joe Satriani and Dweezil had played on (Spinal Tap’s 1992) ‘Break Like the Wind’ record. Otherwise it was just take a chance, what have you got to lose except your pride and self-esteem? Thankfully, it was this great wash of generosity and warmth in the responses when they finally returned our calls.”
Smalls last played Atlanta in 2009, when Spinal Tap brought its “Unplugged and Unwigged” tour to the Fox Theatre.
“I have a vivid memory of the Fox and its wonderful dankness,” Smalls recalled. “When you’re on tour, cities start blurring, but I do remember the Fox because it is beautiful. You remember the moments on stage, such as if you caught the eye of someone you were planning to see later, a certain Cindy - that’s what I call (the women); it’s just easier that way.”
About the Author
