FLOYD IN THE FLESH - CHIPPING NORTON, THE THEATRE 31/03/18
In a world where tribute bands are often mocked as a cheap excuse to recreate already established bands, new guys on the block, Floyd in the Flesh create a memory of their own. Over a two hour set, they perfectly capture the magic, the lights and spirit of one of our generation’s most influential bands. It’s an honor to have met them, talked to them and watched them perform to the audience in the Chipping Norton.
This is a set bound together by a history of tracks, ranging from early Syd Barrett material through to the Division Bell, encompassing the classic tracks along the way.
Opening with ‘Shine On You Crazy Diamond’ and then through tracks like ‘What Do You Want From Me’, the infamous ‘Time’ and ‘Comfortably Numb’, the band function like a single unit. The sound is incredible and lights mesmerising as they deliver the songs.
The backing vocals are provided by the incredible voices of Denise Ahlfors-Hartshorne and Dulcie Phoenix, however due to stage restrictions they were tucked away in the corner. I would liked to have seen them when they perform ‘The Great Gig in the Sky’. They were just a pleasure to hear. Frontman Dan Heenan on bass, has a dominating presence, delivering a powerful set of vocals from the very start without trying to be Dave Gilmour. Along with the brilliant Ben Heenan, Andy Pennington
on guitars, Andy Geeson on keyboards and Ryan McFall on drums, Floyd in the Flesh pay respect to Pink Floyd. And they do it well.Some great visual effects from the lighting and projector screens. It has to be said that space prevented the inflatable pig and school master from being used, but if you get chance to check out his band in a larger venue, you will not be disappointed.
The work that has gone into producing this show is obvious from the get go. Seven outstanding musicians and singers that produce an experience. An experience can be great, but when it’s done right, can produce the same memory that has been left to us with the legend that was Pink Floyd.
