Bill Bailey's Cosmic Shindig

So, as a result of my birthday party, most people seemed to acquire the 'flu. Fortunately this cleared up enough for Liz and myself to venture forth to Watford to see the world premiere of Bill Bailey's Cosmic Shindig - namely Bill Bailey doing a gig with the BBC Concert Orchestra as his backing, led by the quite famous Anne Dudley (Oscar Winning Composer, used to do some stuff with the Art of Noise back in the 80s). This all took place in the Watford Colosseum, which we were informed is where the Lord of the Rings soundtrack was recorded.

Bill treated us to a tour of the orchestra, explaining the Oboists liking of the bee gees, and the cockney overtones of the trombonists (which can actually be heard in the William Tell overture). We had the full orchestral version of Leg of Time, Hats off to the Zebras, Insect Nation and "Love Song" (with the ever classic "the Duck lies shredded in a pancake, soaking in the hoi sin of your lies"), as well as the incidental music to a 70s American Cop Show.

An absolute classic. We were quite confused though by the Scandinavians who were sitting in front of us and trying to translate some of the more subtle Bill Baileyisms to their ten year old kids.

It was a really great evening, and pretty much delivered everything and was as funny as expected. As far as I know they're only doing one more of these shows, so hopefully one of them will get recorded for everyone to be able to enjoy.

Wayne

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