Celebrating the late and great who left us far too young, 27 Club makes no apologies for taking a piece of your heart and bringing back some all time classics.
Starting with the story of Robert Johnson, fabled to be the first member of the exclusive group, this electrifying live show takes you through some of the most famous members of the club via their hits and histories. Using the songs of Jimi Hendrix, Jim Morrison, Janis Joplin, Kurt Cobain and Amy Winehouse, the six-piece band pays homage to their great talents and enduring legacies.
Musician and singer Dusty Lee Stephensen shares vocals with fellow Australian Lesley Williams and Edinburgh local Jon Mackenzie. Another Aussie Milush Piochaud is on bass while New Zealand’s Ed Zuccollo plays keys, and the band is rounded out by Scottish drummer Andrew Scott.
The narrative parts of the piece push it along, but it is the music that is the real star of this show. Stephensen is particularly outstanding, with a powerful voice and commanding stage presence, but while Williams has superb energy, her voice is a bit too light for the Joplin vocals. Mackenzie is at his most comfortable when taking on Cobain’s songs, and his passion for them shines through. The harmonies and underscoring are expertly performed by the whole band, and the production pulses with energy throughout.
Part cabaret-part live gig, this production would benefit from being seen in a music venue rather than a theatre setting, however it is incredibly enjoyable and the unforgettable songs and musical prowess on display will have you out of your seat long before the end.
By Deborah Klayman
27 Club plays at Assembly George Square, Edinburgh until August 30th 2026.
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