Echoes of the 60s

Woodstock 1969, 'Summer of Love'; the historically conclusive celebration of an era which gave birth to freedom, free love, and folk rock, is also the inspiration for one of Las Vegas' newest inter-media stage shows - “Echoes of The 60's”. Defined as a musical journey, through the golden years of Psychedelia, Motown and Rock 'n' Roll, you may be surprised to learn that the show was actually the brainchild of seasoned musician Bill DeLoach. Fronting the six-piece line-up, DeLoach himself boasts a fascinating C.V, having been a member of The Four Seasons (alongside Frankie Valli) for over twenty years.

“Echoes of The 60's” takes it's name from the epic Phil Spector vinyl compilation, released in 1977. With a star-studded track-list, that brought together artists from Ike and Tina Turner, to The Ronettes and Righteous Brothers; “Echoes” has remained an era-defining album for the past thirty years. Opening with the resonating harmonies of the electro-acoustic “Wall of Sound” (Phil Spector); the show quickly manages to convince, that isn't just another Woodstock-inspired compilation, of covered tracks. Instead, DeLoach and the veteran six-piece commence upon a journey through musical legacy, and timeless classics - revisiting the likes of Hendrix, The Beatles, Janis Joplin and The Doors along the way.

Located at the 'V' Theater within Planet Hollywood; the retrospective show could not be played within a more fitting venue. Home to the “Motown Revue” and “V: Ultimate Variety Show”; 'V' is synonymous with productions that pay homage to great music – regardless of decade or genre. The 500-capacity V-Theater sets the precedent for a somewhat intimate “Echoes of the 60's” show, perhaps an intentional move to replicate such venues first played by the likes of The Beatles. Although only the third largest showroom at Planet Hollywood; V-Theater does not compromise on acoustics – an ambient aspect that really sets the tone for the 60's inspired live sets. The soulful voice of female vocalist Marilyn James, more than carries during those heartfelt covers of Dusty Springfield and Janis Joplin greats.

To label “Echoes” as purely a homage act would be both negative, and incorrect. Variety Productions label the show as a “multimedia experience”, combining the personal stories of band members (most of whom performed with notable 60's bands, the first time around), with a musical set-list designed to encompass the greatest artists of the 'Love Era'. Expect to be serenaded with a diverse array of covers, including The Ronettes “Be My Baby”, The Doors “Light My Fire” and “White Rabbit”, by Jefferson Airplane.

While a small minority may be disappointed that such icons as the Rolling Stones and Beach Boys didn't make the grade, you'd do well to remember that “Echoes” was never intended to pick at the 60's, highlighting 'the best bits'. It's a political, historical and musical journey, incorporating recording concepts (such as Phil Spector's “Wall of Sound”) and outlandish styles for that period (the Psychedelic phase). For this alone, “Echoes of the 60's” has been hailed one of the most important regressive stage shows, to be introduced to America in recent years.