The “Six Five Special” to me, was a Magnificent and Majestic 4-6-2 Steam locomotive hauled express train in the 1950's of about a dozen or so carriages, that, I would see on a Saturday night. The Locomotive would have coal ablaze in the Fire Box, it would be pluming Smoke from its chimney, exhausting Steam from its cylinders, labouring with love and ease from the load it was pulling behind. The carriages would be packed to the gunnels, brimming with passengers bound for a Coastal sea side Holiday Resort. The name of this magnificent Train was adapted by a B.B.C Television Music programme in the late 1950's that was aimed at, the youth and teenagers of the time. Originally piloted for a short run of six episodes, yet continued for two years. The programme's producer was Jack Good before he resigned and took over, “Jack Good's Oh! Boy” on ITV a rival channel. Pete Murray, and Josephine Douglas, were the show's presenters. Don Lang and his Frantic Five the resident band, who, also performed the signature tune "Six-Five Special" with film of a train opening each episode. Many of the Btitish 1950's artistesincluding Marty Wilde, and Wee Willie Harris were able to launch their espective careers by regularly appearing on the show.Now the name has been adopted by a 21st Century French Rock 'n' Roll band. Several years ago, fortuity came my way, enabling me to catch up with “Six Five Special” at the Rocky Road All Dayer, at Cogenhoe near Northampton in England where they finished off the event. What a show they laid on, to say that, I was more than surprised with their show was an understatement, really impressed a better description! What is the similarity between the Locomotive and the band, simple both have fire in the Engine Room, they both labour with energy, passion, and ease in what they do! The members are, collectively proud of, their families French Roots. That's where it ends, as their musical inspirations, have led them to produce a repertoire, that features many of their own compositions, intermingled with covers from old 1950's & 60's American and British Classic Songs. Occasionally they have been known to slip in the odd number dating from the 1970's (“Teddy Boy Boogie” a typical example). Further inspiration has been sought by, constantly listening to, and watching when, and where ever possible, the raw music generated by the Mid 1970's explosive wave of British Teddy Boy/ Rockabilly revival bands. Names that spring to the fore, Crazy Cavan 'n' The Rhythm Rockers, Matchbox, the Riot Rockers, Flying Saucers, Vernon and the G.I's to name only but a few. It is essentially the sound popularized by these English bands that, has deeply inspired, and emulate what “Six-Five Special” create during their repertoire. The Band has performed at concerts and festivals right across France and further into Europe, including gigs in England (Typically the “Ted Do!” at Scarborough). Spain (The “Crazy Rhythm Fest” at Valencia with International Stars ). Switzerland. Austria (with acts such as Johnny & The Jailbirds). ... This C.D. entitled “Let's go! Let's Go! and includes thirteen tracks, twelve which are self- penned by Aldo, and cover most facets of Rock 'n' Roll, he skill and dedication to the music. The Final track is a welcome cover of “Sea of Heartbreak”.
