Yes yes, you could argue that a tribute band in itself, is a complete waste of time, a musical sham. Many folks would use a vast array of colourful adjectives to describe tribute bands in general, making corny sound mild.

But others would argue, that it is ultimate of honours, an indicator of much appreciation is felt and how highly regarded the original band actually was. After all, imitation is the most sincere form of flattery.

I’m not generally fond of tribute bands, usually it’s the real deal or no deal. After a brief internet search, I found these guys have raised some eyebrows in the Las Vegas community, where they often perform. So I was a bit curious to check out them out, and wasn’t disappointed that I took the time to do so.

Just in case you weren’t following the Bee Gees in recent years, sadly two of the three brothers are gone, Maurice Gibb died in 2003 and Robin Gibb died in May 2012. So the tribute becomes more of an impersonation like performance; something you often encounter with the Beatles or Elvis; you’ll never expereince the real brothers perform together again.

It’s double edge sword with these types of bands; if done poorly, it comes off as pathetic, you might feel an odd sadness like seeing a struggling street performer in the rain but if done well, you can hit it out of the park and wow the audience. Leaving them thinking they had actually seen and heard the original band in their heyday.

I was impressed, they managed to recreate the look and sound of the original band. And the smiles on the faces of the sold out crowd at the Midas Hotel and Casino told you the audience was pleased. There were times if you closed your eyes, you’d think you were listening to the actual Bee Gees.

This tribute band is composed of John Acosta portraying Barry, Taylor Sinquefeld as Robin and Jeff Celentano as Maurice while rounding out the crew with Jason Langley on bass guitar and Robert Flannery on drums. The group will often rotate various backing musicians with Daryl Borges, a spitting image of Robin Gibb, usually fulfilling the US shows. Acosta performed with gusto and skill on the guitar, nailing the detailed vocal stylings of Barry, complete with the distinct falsettos. The vocal harmonies where smooth and soothing, obviously skilful musicians, they certainly caught the essence of the Bee Gees from the 60’s through their late 70’s.

Attention to details helped elevate the performance, from the era appropriate outfits, to the thoughtful light show which included the ubiquitous disco mirror balls, loved it. They also posted lyrics on screen, so the audience could sing along with the evenings setlist which included all the big hits. John also warmed the crowd between songs as he shared many facts and insights to the original band, nice work.

I’d say, the performance fell somewhere in between the adjectives named in the headline. They were certainly were a blast to photograph. So there you go, a fitting trubute by Bee Gees Gold, if your a fan of the Bee Gees, go check them out, you’ll be glad you did. Big thanks going out to the folks at DMC Entertainment, solid work as usual…