You I’m Thinking Of – Relish

Ken and Carl Papenfus formed Relish with Darren Campbell in Downpatrick in the late 90s. The brothers were the sons of famous South African musician Jane Londis and author and percussionist Stan Papenfus. Jane and Stan’s  interracial marriage was banned by the apartheid system, so they fled to Belfast in the early 70s. Not the place at that time one would have immediately thought of for refuge, but their decision gave us two mega-talented Irish musicians and one of my all time favourite Irish singles.

It’s you I’m thinking of is a pure slice of pop perfection. Summery laid-back romantic sounds with lovely harmonies that brings to mind Minnie Ripperton and Paul Weller.  The band were probably best known for “Hey Whatever” the slightly altered Westlife cover version of their “Rainbow Zephyr”
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Despite some excellent reviews the band never really hit the heights. Campbell left the band in 2013. The brothers Papenfus are probably best known now as very successful touring musicians, playing with Sinéad O Connor and Paul Brady and writing and playing on the wonderful Sing Street movie soundtrack.  But the band are still touring and releasing excellent music and are well worth catching if you get the chance. 

- Collie