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AIMS (Ambitions, Ideas, Motivation, Success) was organised by Bill Wyman in 1988 to benefit young aspiring musicians, and this concert was a commendable attempt to encourage such new bands. Those who won this competition were very much of their time. Clothes and haircuts haven't aged well, nor have the aspiring musicians' tunes. 1988 was the height of yuppiedom, mullets, big suits and clinically cosmetic tracks. However, when the established artists take the stage there is a noticeable increase in quality. Chrissie Hynde and Elvis Costello give us a Rock School version of The Collins Kids, with solid versions of, among others, "Windows Of The World" and "Days," and even threatening to break into "Respectable," Mel & Kim's hit of the time.
Chris Rea is, as always, sombre and reflective, putting in a consistently professional performance. The highlight of the show are classic tracks performed by legendary artists, creating a small piece of musical history: Bill Wyman, Phil Collins, Ronnie Wood, and Ian Dury gel on tracks such as Lucille and Tallahassee Lassie. Even the two newcomers, Chris Rea and Terence Trent D'Arby (both of whom had only really found major success the year before), hold their own. Of course, with two Stones on stage, the show concludes with "It's All Over Now" and "Honky Tonk Women."
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