I have never considered myself a fan of rock and roll. I know, I know… But considering it was before my time, I really never had a chance to get into it. But that all changed tonight with American Floyd at the Dunn Center. I heard about it and was a little hesitant. Another cover band didn’t sound like a very fun Saturday night to me. But I caved in and agreed to go. I must say I am totally thrilled I did.
American Floyd, originally from Clarksville with most of its members residing locally, opened at the Austin Peay State University’s Dunn Center with the classic “Breathe,” then went on to do almost twenty more. “Great Gig in the Sky,” “Shine on You Crazy Diamond,” and “Another Brick in the Wall,” were just a few. In their rendition of “Great Gig in the Sky,” the background vocalists, Ann Marie Brown, Cherry Cole, and Jama Bowen sounded like three angels calling a soul to Heaven. The lead vocalist, Mark Hawkins kept the night going with his amazing guitar riffs that are so reminiscent of the original Pink Floyd. From drums, to bass, to keyboard, to saxophone; the music was astounding. They even had artists on the lap guitar and the Hammond B3.
The quality of the production rivaled any other concert I have ever seen before. The laser light show was brilliant to say the least. The entire show was full of bright, luminous colors that came over the audience in a foggy haze. The production company, War Babies, obviously had their P’s and Q’s in order. The laser technician reportedly works with a member of the original Pink Floyd, and the laser show could not have been more spectacular tonight!
I truly believe that tonight, American Floyd has opened my eyes to more music. This is music that I never even realized existed. I would totally recommend that families go and see this so they can share it with a brand new generation that missed out on such legendary music. I really think that American Floyd understands that, seeing as they brought the kids in the audience up to the stage to dance along with “Another Brick in the Wall,” which I think everyone enjoyed.
American Floyd is not your average cover band. After I went back and listened to the real thing, I could have sworn I was back at the Dunn Center listening to them singing “Wish You Were Here,” a song that I’m downloading for my MP3 as I am typing. This band has really made me pay attention to music that I never have before. I can’t wait to see them again.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ldXFxtqKGmU[/youtube]
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