Gary Murphy’s Guitar Legends – The Rock and Roll Years

Image Source: Epstein Theatre

Written By: Alison Jones

Format: Music Show
Genre: Rock 'n' Roll
Date: July 27 2017
Location: The Epstein Theatre, Liverpool, England

Before I go any further, I must declare an interest: Gary Murphy and his multi-talented band have been favourites of ours for many years, and we in Birkenhead and Liverpool have been lucky enough to take this type of talent for granted.

Where do I start?  Well, performing from an early age, Gary has played all over the UK and Europe, and his project Guitar Legends made its debut at The Floral Pavilion Theatre in 2007. The production involved staging the history of the guitar from the 1920s to the present date, showcasing some of the pioneering guitarists in music history through various guitar styles from jazz, blues, country and rock. The show met with rave reviews and has returned to theatres several times with this visit to the Epstein Theatre the latest production.

The story was expertly narrated, often with humour by Mrs Butler’s eldest, Billy Butler. He brought back memories of guitar heroes from the past and informed us of the guitars the legends favoured, and whenever possible, Gary gave a demonstration of their unique sound.

Gary kicked off the evening with Chuck Berry’s Johnny B Goode, and then from the Eagle’s Hotel California to Brian Adams’ Run To You featuring Alan Armstrong’s vocals, the variety of iconic rock and roll songs satisfied everyone.

The soloists and accompanists were just amazing. Elvis Presley was expertly recreated by Elvis Clayton, and Queen’s Adam Lambert (represented by Craig Murphy) raised the roof. Bohemian Rhapsody required all hands to the pump with Rob Shirley switching from keyboards to guitar effortlessly and providing lead vocals, while crystal-clear backing vocals were provided by Jade Tremarco, all of which afforded a standing ovation. She also led vocals on Fleetwood Mac’s Chains, and then Gary Brown joined the party. Covering The Who, he delivered outstanding vocals with a charismatic presence, and when the audience heard the opening bars from Sweet Child Of Mine by Guns and Roses, you just knew he was going to knock it out of the park.

The final number, again fronted by Gary Brown, was AC/DC’s Highway to Hell, which turned out to be heavenly. A brilliant night which had the audience literally rocking in the aisles.

Overall Rating: 10/10 - Perfect