This event features nearly 15,000 walkers who circulate the track several times and are sponsored by individuals and businesses. The proceeds go to the Heart Association to promote healthy hearts by excercise and diet.
Rockitz brought out four bands, Leslie Dripps Moruza, Chris Jamerson & Secret Circus, Force of Habit, and the local AC/DC tribute act "Sin Sity." When we arrived it was cold and windy, the force of it shook the tents and staging, but eventually the sun came from behind the high aluminum seats. After solving the power problem, the announcements took place, and the Leslie took the stage as a three piece, sax, drums and Leslie on keyboards. She has a wonderful voice, and "I Can See Clearly" was especially nice. She played a mixture of originals and covers to appreciative crowd that was collecting to start the walk.
Next up was Chris Jamerson, a 19-year old from Charlottesville who recently moved to Richmond. His five piece act features acoustic guitar, piano, lead, bass and drums. They have a great sound, smooth, with a touch of Paul Simon and Cold Play, but very original. The mood is reflective and instrospective, though solid and rocking at times. Their first CD is absolutely great, recorded in America and England, including mastering at the famed Abbey Road Studio in London.
Jamerson finished a great set while the walkers cruised around the track and returned for the awards ceremony. Up next was Force of Habit, a Richmond rock band headed by Sarah Massey. They performed mostly original tunes, with a dash of rock and reggae. The bass player was great, fast riffs and attack, really good playing, as was the drums. Sarah has a strong clear voice, and this band is emerging as a force, hard working and talented.
Next came announcements for the winners of the walk, not sure how they exactly win, but there were a lot of awards and a speech or two. The sun shone brightly now, as the the day warmed up, jump roping demonstration was next on the agenda, and then the music started again with Force of Habit finishing their set.
Last, but not least was the powerful "Sin Sity" AC/DC tribute band, based in Richmond and ably led by Andy McGrady. "TNT" was one of the first songs, they have the guitars down totally, undistinguishable from the original. "Blaxel Rose" is the lead singer, an African-American who came from the local Guns and Roses tribute act, and does a fine job belting out AC/DC. It was my first time seeing the band, and a truly amazing group they are, they are even sanctioned by the AC/DC organization. A great day for walking and rock and roll.
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