Jazz Sabbath, as the gag goes, were formed in '67 but had all their songs stolen off them by another band with a similar name. They play a short film before the band take the stage where various musicians say how influential they were. Unfortunately, I have the grand piano lid in front of the screen so I can't tell who the talking heads are (although I later discover that Rick Astley is one of the featured celebrities).
The band take to the stage led by main man Milton Keanes (who is actually Adam Wakeman, made up so that he appears much older). They open with a light and airy 'Snowblind', which is played freely and is pretty easy on the ear. The songs are the complete opposite of the source material, being light and tranquil rather than heavy and intense, although a few numbers are unrecognisable. Milton's piano playing is phenomenal whilst the other two players are effortless. 'N.I.B.'s opening motif is playful but this is the launchpad for some wild improvisation. 'Rat Salad' is carried along by the rhythm section, with neat double bass runs and jazzy splash drumming allowing Milton to riff loosely with the piano over the top. It is a pretty extensive version which also includes the drum solo. Once you think it is done, it suddenly kicks back into life again which is great because I love false finishes in songs. Milton rather hilariously introduces their 'ballad' 'Children Of The Grave' which swings during the verse and is bluesy during the chorus. There is a short intermission before the second half opens with a dramatic 'Black Sabbath' which starts off classically and then gets jazzier. A playful 'Fairies Wear Boots' played in the style of Chick Corea is excellent. 'Changes' is introduced as being 'originally written for five accordions' and is genuinely touching. Milton is absolutely hilarious and the show is part stand up/part concert. Adam gamely stays in character throughout, although he does joke at one point that he doesn't know how long he'll be able to keep it up. 'Iron Man' is beautiful to start off with before it is transformed into an almighty jam. Milton also sneaks in cheeky nods to 'Smoke On The Water', 'Eleanor Rigby' and 'Black Night' which is funny. The band finish with 'Paranoid' and we are assured 'that it is 'not the poxy three minute version'. It starts off elegantly before settling into a bluesy rhythm. Highly recommended.
Jazz Sabbath ****
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