Born In Chicago

@ The Marr's Bar, Worcester - 23/12/05

Well, this is a first! I don't usually follow 'tribute' bands let alone review them. But today I'm making an exception; Born In Chicago, or to be more precise, Born In Chicago And The Cell Block 9 Soul Rhythm & Blues Revue put on a spectacular Blues Brothers show at Worcester's Marr's Bar tonight. The completely rammed club heaved, jived and generally strutted its stuff to a fantastic exhibition of great music, slapstick comedy and full-on party spirit.

The show kicked off with a brilliant video on the big screen which introduced the 'Blues Brothers' to the manic 'arena' - and off they went full tilt. They blasted their way through all the standard Blues Brothers songs and stuck a few extras in for good measure. As you'd expect, there was plenty of interaction with their fans; with some having to bare the brunt of the Brothers' cutting, dark humour. There was plenty of vocal assistance from the crowd, loads of general larking about and more than a smidge of 'adult' humour. The only thing that was missing was the Blues Brothers' acrobatics; mind you, with the Brothers and the six piece Revue boys packed onto the stage there wasn't really any room left for that sort of thing.

Certainly, the Brothers gave their all - they had their fans eating out of their hands. The guys in the band were awesome; tight, punchy and everything you'd expect - and some. The whole show was awesomely entertaining and it was easy to see why these guys are creating so much of a storm on the circuit. Towards the end of their set all donned Santa hats and blasted into a series of seasonal songs treated in true Blues Brothers style. Excellent fun, great entertainment - a real blast - even for a tribute sceptic like me.

The evening was brought to an end with a play-out video featuring out-takes from the opening film - great, great, great!! Hey, these boys are hot, bloody hot!!

Ok, I'm still not gonna be converted to a 'tributee' but, I'm glad I went along - it really was a superb way to get into the party mood ready for Christmas. Top work guys and I wish you all the luck in the world as you continue on your infectious way - and thank you!


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