Nine solidly professional musicians from Italy playing brass band jazz. Three on brass, three on wind, three playing rhythm (two drummers and a tuba player). Solo vocalists and chorus. Their material a mix of jazz classics and unexpected treatments. So far so conventional, and for many that would be enough. The solos are enjoyable, the singing decent enough, but nothing exceptional.
They do play fewer tunes than most would during their time on stage. Not because they're playing twelve minute numbers, far from it, but due to the reason which marks Bandakadabra out from all other bands in the festival. This is a band you enjoy not just for the music, but because they are such a great comedy act. Everything is played for laughs, everyone is a clown, and their choreography and timing is excellent. The Monty Python of jazz bands takes silliness, audience participation and physical comedy and wraps it all up in a musical format. How many bands are suddenly in amongst the audience demanding close ups and posing for selfies?
Yes, that close - there's no zoom on this shot!
If you want soaring solos and cool syncopation, boundary breaking arrangements and self absorbed concentration, the tis isn't for you. But if you like your festival to have variety, love to have a laugh and have no prissiness about the 'integrity' of the music then this a perfect addition to your list of shows to see. I've been to plenty Fringe stand ups where I've laughed far less. These guys are a great combination of jazz and comedy.
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