Benny the Clown

Sampertons, Melbourne Beach, FL • 12.31.97

David A Clark

Among the plethora of New Year’s Eve shows, one stands out as a shining jewel of rock and roll prowess.

Local music fans were treated to the phenomenal match-up of two of Brevard County’s truly accomplished musicians to help ring in the New Year. Mark Benedix, of the band Benedix, and Chuck Fleming of Skurvy the Clown joined together for an evening of classic rock, showing that their talents are rooted deeply in our musical past. Although classic rock covers are not their usual milieu, these two axe grinders moved confidently through Hendrix, Clapton, and even some Zep with amazing nimbleness, but always putting their own individual stamp on the material.

Mark Benedix wielded his Strat effortlessly, while Chuck Fleming let loose with bass lines hard to match anywhere. The duo was ably backed up by drummer Marcus, also of Benedix. The packed house was not shy with its applause. ◼