THERE are tribute bands a plenty and, to be honest they are not usually my preferred evening's entertainment but I must confess it was a rare treat to listen to a band as good as the Illegal Eagles, tribute or not, who appeared at Wakefield Theatre on Thursday during their latest tour of the provinces.
The six-piece band were flawless in their delivery both musically and vocally.
Their versatility is outstanding and though they recreated the Eagles sound, almost to perfection, they added their own musical twists to make the night their own.
Instead of just pandering to the crowd and belting out the most recognisable Eagles hits by rote, their well-rounded 20-plus set encompassed a mixture of old, familiar songs, new ones from the latest Eagles album, Long Road Out of Eden, interspersed with a medley of other rock anthems.
It was good to see such a mixed audience, ages ranged from older teens with their parents to born again rockers in their 60s and 70s. All had a fantastic time, dancing in the aisles, whooping and clapping at the end of every number.
Although each member played their part magnificently it's worth singling out lead singer Danny Vaughn with his pitch-perfect voice beautiful flowing locks (still can't decide if they are real) and 'youngster' Michael Lawrence who has the most amazing vocal range from baritone through to falsetto with everything in between.
A memorable evening's performance - I look forward to them returning next year.
