The Spirit of Pink Floyd, Albert Halls, Bolton 14/05/09
This band, seven of whom were members of Off The Wall, evoked the essence of the original Floyd, whilst at the same time putting their own stamp on the songs.
Some tribute bands attempt to be perfect copies – sonically – of Pink Floyd, these guys have all the main attributes, but add their personal touches.
For instance, the solos, whether they be guitar, keyboard, sax or vocal; are all similar to the original, but different enough to be fresh. Case in point is the excellent rendition of the scat vocals from the Dark Side Of The Moon album, brought to life on the night by guitarist/vocalist Stella Fairhead.
The whole thing is more of a livelier show than some bands and this is due in no small way to the showmanship of lead vocalist Andy Gibson, who doesn't try to imitate Gilmour and Waters, but still sounds similar. Also the antics of kilted sax player and percussionist Ben Appleby put some fun into the proceedings.
Mention has also to be made of the rest of the band for their superb musicianship: lead guitarist Nick Radcliffe and keyboard player Rick Benbow – both newcomers to the band, backing singers Adele and Carolyn Harley, drummer Dave Cotterell and bass player Neil Fairclough – a local lad!
As to the music, well there were some of the later Floyd canon performed like Learning To Fly, but the classics were all in evidence.
One Of These Days, Time, Echoes (a shortened version), Money, Run Like Hell, Shine On You Crazy Diamond and Wish You Were Here, were all played with skill.
The end came with magnificent versions of Another Brick In The Wall and Comfortably Numb which had the crowd on their feet.
These guys really are a tribute to Pink Floyd, their effective backdrops paid homage to the originals, and showed images of the album covers and the band members – especially Syd Barratt.
Catch them in Blackburn in October.
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Thursday 09 February 2012
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