|
contents | blues | |||||||||||||
| The Zombies 40th Anniversary Concert Live During March 2008, The Zombies performed their legendary 1968 psychedelic album "Odessey and Oracle" for the first time in 40 years since its original release. The band played three consecutive sold out concerts at the London Shepherds Bush Empire. One of these nights was filmed for DVD, which will be released in the UK on Monday 20th April by Red House, distributed by Absolute via Arvato. The DVD coincides with The Zombies' April 2009 Odessey and Oracle tour; the last time the milestone album will be performed in its entirety in the UK. The four concerts include Glasgow ABC (April 21), Bristol Colston Hall (April 23), Manchester Bridgewater Hall (April 24) and London Hammersmith Apollo (April 25). Mixed in 5.1 Surround Sound and boasting an exclusive 2008 filmed interview with the entire band, the live DVD lovingly documents the historic night when the original members of The Zombies reunited to perform the premiere of 'Odessey & Oracle', preceded by a veritable banquet of Zombie connected material, from Argent hits to Colin Blunstone's string quintet material from his beautiful album 'One Year'. The DVD begins with 8 tracks performed by 'The Zombies' Touring Band', consisting of Rod Argent, Colin Blunstone, Jim and Steve Rodford, and Keith Airey, playing a collection of classic Zombies' tracks prior to 'Odessey...', songs from Rod's later band 'Argent' as well as Colin Blunstone solo material, augmented by a string Quartet. After a short interval the four remaining original members of 'The Zombies' (Rod Argent, Colin Blunstone, Chris White, High Grundy) arrive on stage to perform landmark 1968 album 'Odessey & Oracle' in all it's glory and, after an introduction from recording legend Al Kooper (The man responsible for 'Odessey's existence), kick off with 'Care of Cell 44', instantly letting you know you're in for a treat with it's beautifully escalating harmonies, excelling all expectations when experienced live. This is followed by many further highlights including the layered harmonies of 'Maybe After He's Gone' and 'Beechwood Park', the soaring vocals during 'Hung Up On A Dream' and an amazing performance of 'Time of the Season' heralds a standing ovation before they close with their much loved debut hit 'She's Not There'. The Shepherds Bush gigs were attended by the crème de la crème of rock royalty including Paul Weller, Robert Plant, Robyn Hitchcock, Snow Patrol and Garbage. This A-List audience confirmed the inspiration and influence the music has had on musicians from all generations. Paul Weller bought tickets for all three nights, while the Foo Fighters' Dave Grohl recently claimed that 'Care of Cell 44' changed his life. The Zombies are back from the un-dead to resurrect 'one of the best albums of the Psychedelic era', perfect timing for a summer full of pure nostalgia and musical accomplishment. Their forthcoming UK tour will mark the very last time the band will perform this legendary album in its entirety in the UK. "As their voices soar in the middle of 'Hung Up On A Dream', it's real shivers-down-the-spine stuff......timeless" - The Independent "You could hardly credit it had taken 40 years to reach this seminal moment, which deserves to be ranked beside Brian Wilson's remarkable comeback for its impeccable artistry and uplifting power" - The Scotsman Also available, 'The Zombies' 40th Anniversary Concert Live' on double CD, released by Red House, distributed by Absolute via Arvato. write your comments about the article :: © 2009 Jazz News :: home page |