Super Diamond: A hard act to follow
As an actor, Neil Diamond became the first ever "Winner" of a Worst Actor Razzie Award for his role in the 1981 movie, “The Jazz Singer.” But as an actual singer, there are few as enduringly popular.
And speaking of enduring, Super Diamond, the world-famous Neil Diamond tribute band formed in 1993, will appear live in concert at the Newport Performing Arts Center this Sunday, Jan. 28.
The critically-acclaimed San Francisco-based group performs Neil Diamond classics, including “Sweet Caroline,” “Cherry Cherry,” “Song Sung Blue,” “Forever in Blue Jeans” and “America.”
A cult-favorite, helmed by frontman “Surreal Neil,” aka Randy Cordeiro, Super Diamond delivers an uncanny, glittering, high-energy concert performance that delights and uplifts crowds wherever they go. Audiences can expect the world's purest Neil Diamond experience, short of traveling back in time to experience Diamond’s own concerts in his 1970s heyday.
A review in Tahoe Weekly said that “Super Diamond has long since transcended the label of tribute band, passionately immersing themselves in Neil Diamond's huge repertoire to deliver a high-octane show of unforgettable classics.”
The powerhouse group has spent three decades performing at venues such as The Hollywood Bowl, Fenway Park and Portland's Crystal Ballroom. They’ve also been featured on The Late Show with David Letterman, CNN and Comedy Central and in publications such as Rolling Stone Magazine, Spin and The New York Times. In fact, Neil Diamond himself once joined the band onstage in Chicago for a surprise performance.
“There’s a real sense of excitement about this concert,” said Jason Holland, executive director of the Oregon Coast Council for the Arts. “Some of the folks stopping by to pick up tickets are absolutely giddy, and we can’t blame them. It’s definitely going to be a fun show.”
The concert is co-sponsored by White Rabbit Espresso & Coffee House.
“We're stoked to be able to help to bring a headliner like Super Diamond to Newport,” owner John Schreiber said. “I love coffee and Neil Diamond music, but, you know, not necessarily in that order.”
Super Diamond: The Neil Diamond Tribute will take to the stage at 3 pm this Sunday, Jan. 28, at the Newport Performing Arts Center, located at 777 W Olive Street. Tickets, $40, are available at coastarts.org or by calling 541-265-2787.