When a true Blues icon and originator of OzBlues reaches a milestone birthday, then what better way to celebrate than to hold a Birthday Bash with some of the best local Blues musos around. It was Matt Taylor's 60^th Birthday at the beginning of July and he was out to dinner with a couple of friends, who suggested that they call in to the Charles Hotel to catch Bob Patient and band. Imagine the surprise when Matt walks in to the PBC to find 300 friends and fans enjoying his birthday, complete with helium balloons, tinsel decorations and posters around the Club.

There were video tributes from the likes of Spectrum members, Phil Manning, Max Merritt, plus the most memorable speech from Michael Gudinski. Renee Geyer sent a heartfelt email and another from Shirley Smith.

Plenty of great music on stage, starting with a set from Gary Stoyles on banjo and slide guitar, accompanied by Mark Constable on harp and vocals.

The PBC House Band came out for a repeat performance and no one was complaining, given the calibre of the musicianship.

With little coaxing, Matt joined them on stage and played some of his trademark harmonica and tracks from early Chain days. The final set of the night was a Blues fan's delight, with Matt confidently striding through "Black and Blue", before giving us the many versions of "I Remember When I Was Young" - Disco, Punk, Reggae . . .

What a great way to celebrate your 60th birthday !! Guess what I'm looking forward to for mine !!

Well done, Matt !! You thoroughly deserve the accolades bestowed on you by The Perth Blues Club, including Life Membership, and the adoration of the lucky invitees, who were treated to yet another classic Matt Taylor performance.

What more could a guy ask for ??

Derek Cromb is the host of "Play The Blues",
Sunday nights on 89.7 TWIN CITIES FM

The following photos were taken by PBC members and guests.