"The British Invasion act at Epcot will have its last performance today, April 30. Disney have been very quick to replace the band, and a new show will debut at the UK Pavilion on May 3 2011. The new group will play music from Dave Clark Five, the Beatles, Led Zeppelin and The Who."
I understand that guests get great enjoyment from hearing familiar and well-loved songs, but integration with new music would I'm sure thrill and impress; Britain has a unique rock/pop culture (look at Glastonbury Festival) that entertains through the generations. You only have to glance at mine and my dad's music collections to see how similar our tastes are! And this is common with family members.
EPCOT is all about connecting with current and future social trends...I think it should 'get with the programme' (including updating certain promotional tourists films in the likes of Norway...).
Whilst the new EPCOT band might still be playing songs from classic artists, at least there will be more variation. And I am really happy and excited about it...I can't wait to hear how this new group does! Regular Disney visitors please keep us posted!
But I think what they try to do is offer a sound that's broad spectrum and identifies Britain with people from all around the Globe visiting EPCOT. The new band , with another twee name , "The English Channel", have taken up residence and have, at least, introduced some more recent songs to their set. Albeit only as recent as the 70's !.
Still. All in all these bands make a good fist of it and they tap into that swinging 60's scene much like the Austin Powers' movies did. It's fun and toe -tapping. Not everyone's cup of tea, granted, but this is EPCOT not Filmore East.
You're right Rob, it is important to play songs that everybody knows and can enjoy and be nostalgic. I'm really glad they're playing artists as well as the Beatles too. I reckon they'll draw more crowds. I hope Disney promotes them widely - I always thought the bandstand area was quite out of the way and easy to miss.
Has anyone heard them yet?
http://orlandoparksnews.blogspot.com/2011/05/english-channel-bands-first-show-at.html
