On Wednesday evening at the Casino2000 in Mondorf-les-Bains, the Earth Wind & Fire Experience, featuring Al McKay, performed at the Chapito event forum, attracting no less than 500 concert-goers to hear the original sound that captivated audiences in the 70s and early 80s.
The funk ensemble was one of the most popular bands in the 1970s; it also incorporates elements of jazz, smooth soul, gospel, pop, rock & roll, psychedelic, blues, folk, African music and later disco. The unique sound, with traces of Mowtown, filled the arena as the band performed a wide repertoire ranging from ballads to jazz fusion.
With the Chapito laid out for a seated concert, with row upon row of chairs arranged in parallel lines all facing the stage, the optional dinner was in one of the small ante-rooms (ours seated 40) or a choice between the Les Roses (Michelin-star), Purple Lounge (brasserie) or Manège (buffet) restaurants on site - plenty of on-site choice.
In traditional showmanship style the performers were late on stage, but just by 30 minutes. By that stage even the latecomers were early and everyone was eager for the music to start. Which it did in earnest.
This was some show, with 9 musicians - including the trademark saxaphonist in a four-piece brass section - and 3 on vocals, distinctive by their high notes, very quickly getting into their rhythm and getting the crowd on their feet. Many of the old favourites were performed, including the ballad After the Love has Gone which slowed the tempo, but not for long... The last before the encore was Remember, lest anyone forget that unmistakable sound. Then there was Got to Get You Into My Life, Saturday Nite and Boogie Wonderland, plus many more.
The band was in the last leg of their world tour which had included Japan before the European leg. Today they return to their homes in the US. It has been three years since the last time they performed in the Grand Duchy and let's hope it will not be another three years until thes return.
Photos by Geoff Thompson
