Cover bands are nothing new, and Pink Floyd has been one of the more popular groups to imitate. So what makes the Aussie version of the faux Floyd worthy of an international reputation that commands a stop at Madison’s slickest, most aristocratic live music venue?
Well, for one thing, they’re more than just a band – they’re a full-on show. The group emulates not only the music of Pink Floyd, but also the extravagant stage show that became part of the original band’s legend.
In fact, the Aussie Floyd employs light and sound crewmembers that have worked with the real Pink Floyd, and much of the equipment they bring along is the exact same gear that was used on Pink Floyd tours. Check out lots of pictures at www.aussiefloyd.com.
Australian Pink Floyd Beginnings
The Australian Pink Floyd was formed in Adelaide, South Australia in 1988, eventually relocating to England where they grew in popularity. They were the first Pink Floyd tribute band to tour in the UK back in 1993, starting off by playing the first International Pink Floyd fan convention in London. Over a decade of touring, the group’s reputation has spread throughout the world.
Of course, getting a stamp of approval from the original Pink Floyd has helped as well. The Aussie Floyd received the ultimate endorsement in 1996 by becoming the only Floyd tribute band to be asked to perform for a member of Pink Floyd.
David Gilmour, Floyd’s lead guitarist, had the band play for his 50th birthday celebration. Gilmour eventually took the stage with the Aussie Floyd and performed several Pink Floyd classics, including “Money” and “What Do You Want From Me”.
Australian Pink Floyd Live
So, when The Australian Pink Floyd takes the stage, it could be argued that it will be the closest thing to a real Pink Floyd show without the actual participation of original band members. On top of that, it’ll give the tie-die set a chance to exploresomething that no longer exists; with the recent death of Pink Floyd keyboardist Richard Wright, the original band is forever incomplete.
As the Australina Pink Floyd say on their website, "Such a big part of the whole Pink Floyd sound, he will probably be best remembered for his beautiful Piano work on 'Great Gig In The Sky',the majestic haunting intro to 'Shine On You Crazy Diamond' and his vocals and keyboards on the epic 'Echoes'. In truth his input and talent are in every Pink Floyd track and we will be playing every song with a little extra thought for Rick from now on."
The Aussie floyd will soldier on. The group is sure to be, to coin a phrase, worth the trip.
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