Radio Adelaide » Adelaide Fringe Review 2024: 27 Club

Amidst the vibrant chaos of Adelaide Fringe, a musical pilgrimage beckons—one that pays homage to the immortal legends of rock ‘n’ roll. At the heart of this pilgrimage lies the “27 Club,” a show that transcends mere performance to become a riveting journey through the lives and legacies of music’s most enigmatic figures.

Stepping into the dimly lit venue for the 10.15pm late night show (standing event with dance floor), one is instantly drawn into the mystique surrounding those fateful members of the 27 Club. The air crackles with anticipation as the stage becomes a sacred space, resonating with the echoes of Janis Joplin’s soulful wails, Amy Winehouse’s poignant confessions, Kurt Cobain’s raw vulnerability, Jim Morrison’s poetic fervour, and Jimi Hendrix’s electrifying prowess.

Led by Australian rock superstars Sarah McLeod, Kevin Mitchell and Dusty Lee Stephensen, the band and guests channel the spirits of these icons with electrifying precision. Each note played, each lyric sung, is infused with the essence of those who left an indelible mark on the annals of music history. Together, they weave a tapestry of sound that transcends time and space, inviting the audience to immerse themselves fully in the euphoria of rock ‘n’ roll.

Sarah McLeod’s performance as she channeled the spirit of Janis Joplin was nothing short of mesmerising. From the moment she stepped onto the stage, she embodied the essence of the legendary rock icon with such energy and passion that it was impossible to look away. McLeod transported the audience to an era, where Joplin reigned supreme as the queen of psychedelic rock and blues.

But “27 Club” is more than just a musical spectacle; it’s a poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of genius and the price of fame. Through poignant anecdotes and intimate revelations, the performers peel back the layers of myth to reveal the humanity beneath, reminding us that even the gods of rock were mortal.

As the final chords reverberate through the open-air Fantail in Gluttony, one is left breathless, awe-struck by the sheer magnitude of what has transpired. “27 Club” is not just a concert; it’s a masterclass in the power of music to transcend, to transform, and to immortalise. And as the audience spills out into the night, hearts pounding and spirits soaring, they carry with them the echoes of those who dared to live fast, die young, and leave a legacy that will never be forgotten.