They can dance, they can sing and they are having the time of their lives, they are the ABBA Arrivals.
To be fans of a pop group is one thing and turning their love for the group's songs into a mode of entertainment and profession is something else. This band from England has been performing in the city at different venues over the last few days, making the audience wanting to know more about them.
The six unrelated members met by sheer chance and that meeting has turned into a 14-year long association. The string that binds them together is the love of the ever memorable songs of ABBA.
The six-member band from England (along with the drummer and manager), ABBA Arrival, who sing and perform to ABBA songs was in the city as part of Seagrams' 100 Pipers 12-city tour. And the response from the crowd is making them look forward to performing in the city. “Both the gigs were hot,” giggles Natalie, who impersonates Annie-Frid.
The band has been in India since April and has been busy collecting whatever ‘Indian' catches their eye. “In between performances and practice we have been able to steal some shopping time for ourselves,” laughs Mark, who impersonates Benny.
But the odd man in the group is Dennis, who plays the drums. This man has set his eyes on the sweets. “Coloured, big, small and large. This country has an amazing collection of sweets. I don't mind eating sweets for my three meals,” he laughs.
The six, before meeting and forming the band, were professional performers in different places. And when the association happened, they couldn't believe their luck. “It is fortunate to meet people with common interest and a common goal. We have sung and played every song of ABBA so much that and we still don't get tired of listening to them,” says Sarah, who impersonates Agnetha in the band.
Mark, however, would like to point out, “During our performance, we ask for request songs from the group and surprisingly, the crowd comes up with names of fairly lesser known songs of ABBA.” The ABBA Arrival says, when they signed the India tour they decided to come with an open mind about the country, the response for their music and all. “We are glad we did. The cheer we get is overwhelming,” says Darren who plays Bjorn.
So which number they always begin their performance with? “ Holding your soul , they say in unison.” And have they met the real ABBA yet, “No, not yet. We wish to know what they think about us and our performance,” says Sarah. Natalie adds, “That's my biggest dream and my nightmare too.”
