To celebrate the release of “Live In The United Kingdom” last week, Beaux Gris Gris and the Apocalypse released a cover Queens Of The Stone Age’s “Make It Wit Chu.” As someone familiar with QOTSA’s version, I was taken aback by the unique rendition. This unexpected twist speaks volumes about the immense talent of Greta Valenti and Robin Davey, both hailing from Well Hung Heart.
Admittedly, I wasn’t familiar with BGGATA (as I will now affectionately call them, for the sake of brevity) before delving into their mammoth collection, “Live in the United Kingdom 2023.” Spanning two gigs from the spring, totalling over two and a half hours of music, this album served as my introduction. And what an introduction it was! This live recording is a rare gem that compels you to sit through its 28 songs and then eagerly seek out the studio versions.
The first half of the album predominantly features recordings from Newbury in early May, while the second half is mainly from Wales, with the exception of one track from Poynton in April. While these venues may not be Madison Square Garden, no one told the band.
“Heart Breaker” sets the tone with its dirty groove, “When My Baby Was Rich” takes us back to the golden age of rock ‘n’ roll, complete with a bar room piano that adds an authentic touch. Notably, the guitar work in the Brecon recording shines through. “Bungalow Paradise” is a jazzy romp that showcases the band’s versatility and ability to tackle different genres effortlessly.
As “Baby, Baby” unfolds with its slow-burning piano-driven melody, you find yourself captivated by the raw emotion conveyed in Greta Valenti’s vocals. “Louisiana Good Ride” embodies the essence of Southern rock, featuring clever double entendre lyrics and soulful organ accompaniment. The Brecon rendition injects an even filthier energy into the track
With “Thrill Me,” the band delves into darker territory, seamlessly transitioning from an Urban Voodoo Machine-inspired sound to something reminiscent of Gov’t Mule. The versatility demonstrated here is nothing short of astounding. “Is This The Blues” introduces a spoken-word element that adds depth and introspection to the album’s sonic landscape.
An unreleased track, “Penny Paid Rockstar” exudes an E Street Band vibe – which is underlined later with the downright seductive country rendition of Bruce Springsteen’s “I’m On Fire.” The band’s execution is flawless, showcasing their musical prowess. “Don’t Let The Bastards Drag You Down” impresses with an excellent solo that perfectly captures the spirit of the song.
The duet “Juggernaut” commands attention with its stomping rock energy. “Gris Gris” brings a sense of joyful abandon, encouraging you to let loose and embrace the impending apocalypse. “Fill Me Up” serves as a testament to the band’s sheer talent.
There’s a couple of goes at “What’s My Name,” (lets be real, you try and forget it after this) However, the standout moment arrives with “Trouble is Coming,” recorded in South Wales. This track is undoubtedly the crown jewel of the collection, While the album’s other new song, the aforementioned “Make It Wit Chu,” starts off soulful and gradually evolves into a Hendrix-inspired explosion of sound.
Valenti hails from Louisiana, and there’s something special in the music of that state, the melting pot, the culture clash, the sense of colour, of drama almost. Beaux Beaux Gris And The Apocalypse have all that – and more. It’s like being the middle of a second line at Mardi Gras.
Rating 9/10
