This time round, Abu Dhabi Week rocks out with Top 40 Rock/Pop quartet Junction 21.
Who?
Born and bred Brits Bic (drums), Debbie (lead vocals), Sam (guitar, lead vocals) and Alex (bass) have been in the capital since March but have been making music together around the globe for quite some time. “We played on cruise ships, mostly covering laidback, lounge tunes for an older crowd, so the transition to Abu Dhabi, and this pub, has been big,” says group leader Bic.
What?
“The P.J.’s crowd likes Rock and Pop so we were forced to learn a more edgy repertoire.” For a group that didn’t typically play the genre, they cover it well – and the crowds simply love them. Abu Dhabi Week’s been caught up in the front row a few times too. Crowd favourites seem to be ‘Hotel California’, ‘Sweet Child of Mine’ and ‘Zombie’, they agree.
On performing in Abu Dhabi:
“Crowds here are definitely more appreciative of what we do and they’re out to have fun.” Although sometimes too much fun. “A fan came up once and pulled the mic away from me while I was singing Lady Gaga’s ‘Poker Face’, but security were able to contain him,” laughs Debbie. But they all agree that they were planted in the perfect setting. “The manager and listeners have been hugely supportive, and this traditional pub venue makes us feel right at home.”
Where to find them? 9pm-1am nightly, except Sundays
Where? P.J. O’Reilly’s, Le Royal Meridien
