Bootleg Beatles the best Fab Four tribute in the world

I HAVE no hesitation in describing The Bootleg Beatles as probably the best Fab Four tribute in the world, writes Brian Harrington.

Their attention to detail in terms of how they look, how they sound and the equipment they use is fanatical and reflects the fact that they are all huge fans of The Beatles, as well as exceptional musicians.

Appearing with their own orchestral ensemble, they recreate the musical catalogue of probably the most influential popular music band of all time.

The 2023 tour goes back to the roots of The Beatles and celebrates 60 years since the first album, Please Please Me, was released. The album was famously recorded in one 12-hour long session and is about as close as it gets to a live album.

I spoke to Stephen Hill, who is George Harrison in the show. He came to The Bootleg Beatles about nine years ago, fresh from appearing in the West End show Let It B.

His excitement, both as a musician and as a Beatles fan was palpable as he explained how much he is looking forward to bringing tracks that wouldn’t normally get an airing, like Anna, to an audience. He told me that he really believes that even audiences who (like myself) have seen The Bootleg Beatles before will be “blown away” by this show.

In addition to picks from Please Please Me there will be a tribute to the Revolver album, as well as a selection of hits and rarities and an Apple Rooftop Concert section to effectively “bookend” the show with the last performance as a contrast to the first album.

Stephen told me that this show is a “guaranteed eye opener” for all Beatles lovers (and let’s face it that means pretty much everyone).

The Bootleg Beatles will be at Reading’s Hexagon on March 28, but there are also relatively local shows at New Theatre, Oxford, on April 3 and The Anvil, Basingstoke, on April 5.