What a blast! RGO was asked to come and play at The Ghetto, a fantastic club in Istanbul. We were booked for october 25th. The venue has an interior decoration which makes you wonder weather you’re in a super high tech club, or on a film set of Rome (the series). Ceilings that look like Michelangelo’s life work at the Vatican combined with laser beams and a super sound system.

Anyway, we had a great time. many thanks to Sahuran Batur. He writes:

“High quality funk, amazing stage show and very cool attitude.. RGO is definitely an exceptional band. It is impossible not to be impressed by their energy on stage!”

 And we agree!!

The pic above is a not the RGO… It’s the New Cool Collective. They visited The Ghetto in 2008.

Since our last post, an incredible number of good things have happened to the RGO. Of course, our new Hammond king, Dr. Rob, made our show as good as it could ever be. The crowds love him and the past shows have all been great. But when Rob’s busy agenda takes him elsewhere, another incredible Hammond player takes his place: the OrganGrinder himself.  Yes, we have been lucky to also work with Govert vd Kolm on different occasions. 
The Hague Jazz, Jazz-a-Palooza, North Sea Jazz, Saint Paul Soul Jazz Festval, and all the other gigs lifted our, and our audiences souls. Thanks for all the positiveness!!

Now we are getting ready for a new bookings season, with a number of shows coming up. Check out www.myspace.com/raregrooveorchestra for new dates and videos.

After a phase of self reflection, Hammond-player and founding member Felix Faassen has decided to leave the Rare Groove Orchestra. Rob Geboers will take his seat.

Felix (aka Mr. Flixz, aka The Lion) has become infatuated with professional (deep sea) diving. After years of pursuing this as a recreational hobby on the side, he is now contemplating ways to turn this passion into a living. Felix has decided that he can’t combine these activities with the full on commitment that is required to play in The Rare Groove Orchestra. We feel very sad that Felix has come to this decision. We have come a long way since starting the RGO over six years ago and this would not have been possible without the special talents, personality and friendship of Felix. Nevertheless, we feel happy for Felix that he has found a way to live his passion to the fullest extent.

Hammond-player Rob Geboers will replace Felix taking effect immediately. Rob brings a formidable amount of experience to the RGO. He has toured extensively with some awe inspiring artists and we are happy to add our name to that list. With Rob, the RGO has found a Hammond-player that matches the RGO perfectly. He’s got the chops, he’s got the showmanship, he’s got the looks, he’s got it all! We are very happy that Rob has decided to join forces with us and we are looking into a bright and creative future for the Rare Groove Orchestra on stage and on record.

Rob’s website: www.robgeboers.nl
Felix’s website: www.flixz.org

We would like to thank everyone who contributed to our 2nd CD. Please take note of these credits / fantastically talented and great people:

• Produced, Recorded and mixed by Arno Dreef
• Artwork by Bruno Thielleux
• Sleeve & CD design by Dirk Bakkers
• Photography by Eric van Nieuwland

A BIG thanks from the RGO!