It may be over 30 years since John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd got their ‘band’ back together on the big screen, but The Blues Brothers are still very much alive and kicking this time on stage.
A mammoth UK tour of The All New Original Tribute to The Blues Brothers has rolled into Dundee and the former West End hit show boasts smashed box office records and a revamped look, including a new set and songs.
An irreverent and wacky trawl through some of the world’s best-known blues and soul hits, brothers Jake and Elwood Blues, donning their iconic hats, sunglasses and suits, entertain and shock in equal measure with slapstick antics and dour humour.
The numbers go down well, with favourites such as Everybody, Shake A Tail Feather, Sweet Home Chicago, Gimme Some Loving and Jailhouse Rock getting members of the audience up on their feet.
Accompanied by an impressive seven-piece band, the brothers are supported by three Bluettes, whose moves and vocals combine the talents and spirit of Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner and Beyonce. They positively steal the show with their sparkling outfits, energetic dancing and electrifying renditions of Think and Respect.
Calmer moments like The Drifters’ classic Under The Boardwalk are welcome, but few. Generally, audience participation is obligatory, and public humiliation lingers as a threat for those who choose to refrain from openly displaying enjoyment.
A full-on performance for lovers of blues, soul, and borderline dirty jokes don’t expect to sit down much during the two-hour show.The Blues Brothers runs at Dundee Rep until Saturday. Visit www.dundeereptheatre.co.uk for more information.