Oranges And Lennons: John Lennon Affectionally Remembered… ~ Adelaide Fringe 2020 Review

[MUSIC/Rock ~ SA] Main Theatre at Goodwood Institute Theatre, Sun 23 Feb. Beatles tributes come in many shapes and forms. The music of the fab four continues to serve as an inexhaustible wellspring of resource for those wanting to have a go. Tonight, Gary Burrows brings his Oranges And Lennons show back to the Fringe for a one-off concert at Goodwood. As the title indicates, it’s a tribute to the Beatles’ songs that put John Lennon front and centre, alongside some of Lennon’s solo efforts. The five-piece band appear on stage, smartly turned out in matching waist-coated uniforms, and begin the evening’s entertainment with A Hard Day’s Night. The first set features expected selections such as Come Together and Norwegian Wood, but there are also some lesser-known numbers to keep things interesting. Rosie and the Originals’ Angel Baby and Little Willie John’s Leave My Kitten Alone (finally released on Anthology) are both unexpected and appreciated. Highlights include Hey Bulldog, I’m Losing You and a sublime Don’t Let Me Down. The band does a great job bringing the songs to life. The rhythm section is assured, the harmonies are as good as one could ask for, and the lead instruments also help to create a sound that has a fair degree of authenticity about it. Burrows sings and plays well; he obviously has a lot of affection for his chosen subject, and this shines through. He adds a little continuity by providing short anecdotes about the songs as he moves through the setlist. The second set continues in the same vein as the first. Classics like Imagine and Revolution are presented alongside Soldier Of Love (Lay Down Your Arms) and Run For Your Life, making for another interesting listen. Oranges And Lennons provides a most enjoyable evening out, for both casual fans and hard-core Beatlemaniacs. There’s something in there for everyone. 4 stars David Robinson #ADLfringe Image courtesy of David Robinson