The Blues Brothers
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The Blues Brothers
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Strictly speaking this is not a concert, but a West End Show. Any plot however is negligible, even more so than in the film, so it is as close to being a concert as a theatre performance is ever likely to get. Whilst I had originally intended this section of the web to cover the work of original artists, I have to concede that this show is not even the work of a tribute band, it is a tribute to a tribute band. I would have much preferred to have seen authentic legends like Aretha Franklin, Wilson Pickett, Sam and Dave or Otis Redding, but I have to be realistic and accept that this is not going to happen. Those who have not passed on are retired, or if not retired are very unlikely to visit the tiny island of Jersey. Therefore tributes to tribute bands is just about as good as it is likely to get. Quite apart from my concerns about the authenticity of this show, there are also moral ones as well. The whole show, like the films, is based around black music, so it seems highly unjust that white people take the leads whilst the black artists are reduced to supporting roles. As the show was based around the film I don't suppose there is much that can be done about it, but I make the observation none the less. Many would argue that it is a double edged sword, as the Blues Brothers films did give new leases of life to those artists who had all but been forgotten. None the less I know which artists I would like to have seen taking centre stage. Elwood Blues is played by Mark Lawson and Jake by Brad Henshaw. Like Belushi and Ackroyd they hardly possess the greatest voices in the world, but they just about get away with it. As a comic duo however they are supremely talented and with some extremely strong material they are highly entertaining with their sketches an monologues between songs. Their backing group "The Bluettes" consisting of David Danns, Jennifer Wallace and Neal Wright are authentically black, albeit from the shores of England and represent the singing talent in the show. For me Jennifer Wallace was the real star and I hope that I one day get the chance to hear her sing again. Any woman who can imitate Aretha and still remain convincing deserves the utmost respect. I have always felt the title of "Blues Brothers" for both the film was misleading as 80% of the material is clearly 'soul' based with bona fida soul artists. With this stage show the criticism is even more true as several additional numbers such as Jackie Wilson's 'Higher and Higher' and James Brown's "Sex Machine" are incorporated, and of course not forgetting a funky interpretation of Rolf Harris "Two Little Boys" which has to be seen to be believed. Leaving all my hang ups and prejudices aside this was really a great show. Real musicians playing real soul and sung by some wonderful voices. It was also maniacally funny at times as well. If you want the genuine article then give this a miss, but if all you're after is a great night out then I cannot recommend this too highly. If I'd have gone to the Friday performance I would have booked for the Saturday as well, it was really that good. Unfortunately I booked for the final night but rest assured I will be looking out to see this one again. |
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Why Not visit the Authors other Website, 'The Alternative Blackpool Website' at http://www.localdial.com/users/jsyedu133/bpool This Site Last Updated 18/05/05
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