The 2016 formation of the new Highland Green resident “house band” represents much of what is unique and exceptional about the community. At HG, nearly 200 households and growing from 29 different states around the country have gathered.
Off Their Rockers are: “Hip and Heavenly” Charlotte Hewson (aka “Keyboard Charlie”), who moved to HG from Harpswell, Maine; band founder Bob “the Beat” Allen from Oakland, California on drums; Charlie “King of Cool” Evans (aka “Guitar Charlie”) from Lee, New Hampshire; Les “Big Bopper” Borodinsky from Derwood, Maryland on bass; lead singer Barbara “Songbird” Combs from Grand Forks, North Dakota; and on backing vocals, Carol “Do-Ray-Me” Davis from Simsbury, Connecticut; Caroline “Flower Child” Feely from Oakland, Maine; and “Rocking Mama” Michelle Borodinsky from Derwood, Maryland.
HG residents find an instant neighborly ambience. Many discover new interests while others
have no problem finding new friends to share in their passions through dynamic resident organized activities in the community and elsewhere. Educational, volunteer, hiking, walking, social, and dining experiences only scratch the surface of the happenings amongst HG folks.
Off Their Rockers formed in early 2016 and have enjoyed practicing for the last six months. “This is my first experience singing with a rock and roll band, and it’s so much fun to be making music with new friends at HG” says Carol. “When we all descend on Bob’s basement to rehearse every week, I feel as if I’m living in a neighborhood that’s full of kids who want to do fun, creative and interesting things together! It’s the neighborhood I always wanted while growing up but never had.”
Off Their Rockers made their debut at the recent “Highland Green’s Got Talent” variety show in front of nearly 200 fellow residents and friends under a large tent behind the Community Center. They opened the show with two songs, closed it with three, and then played encores long into the night.
The group features an eclectic, wide ranging and ever-growing catalogue of tunes. From traditional blues and early rock songs to catchy numbers from the 21st century, Off Their Rockers talent and signature sound will appeal to all as they plan more performances at Highland Green and elsewhere.
Some of their highlights at the HG talent show included “Bill Bailey,” which was first published in 1902 and has been covered by Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Bobby Darin, Patsy Cline, Harry Connick, Jr, Phish, and Off Their Rockers. “End of the Line,” the 1989 hit by the Traveling Wilburys, was exceptionally well received. And Darius Rucker’s “Wagon Wheel” from 2013 was played twice!
Stay tuned as Off Their Rockers expand their catalogue, play new gigs, and continue to reflect the singular Highland Green active lifestyle enjoyed by hundreds of residents from across America, right here on the north side of route 196 in Topsham. Lead vocalist Barbara Combs says: “This sort of activity is what HG is all about and what helps us to stay healthy and happy – as well as just damn cool.”
Read more about Off Their Rockers in the New Year 2017 HG Lifestyle Newsletter.
