If you’ve ever wanted to breakdance to the Death Star theme, The Katet vs John Williams is the right show for you. Performed by the Edinburgh-based eight-piece jazz-funk band, the Katet’s Vs. shows feature jazz-funk arrangements of iconic songs, including Stevie Wonder, Radiohead, and Oasis. This edition goes beyond conventional melodies and takes apart film scores instead, reinterpreting John Williams’s iconic themes through the sound of jazz-funk.
Arranged by Mike Kearney, the band’s keyboardist and vocalist, the music is fun and fresh, yet never loses the recognisable charm of the original soundtracks. It surprises you at every turn in the best way, and each song feels novel. Every musician—and instrument—gets their moment to shine, and though the band seems almost too large for the tiny stage, the eight-piece operates as a seamless unit. It’s a testament to their experience (almost two decades playing together) that they perform with such effortless rapport with one other.
The set is not completely instrumental (though the audience still manages a singalong to it in its instrumental moments), but also includes songs from the Back to the Future soundtrack, keeping the audience singing and the energy high all night long.
Part way through the set, you almost forget that you’re there for John Williams. The various renditions of the 20th Century Fox Fanfare will remind you quickly enough—and also elicit a few laughs. A combination of the unconventional arrangements, the infectious energy of the band, and of course, the very good music creates a funky atmosphere that is cheery and playful all throughout the set. It’s a great way to end (or start) a night at the Fringe.
Seating is quite limited in The Jazz Bar, so be sure to get there early if you don’t want to be standing for all 90 minutes. If not, get ready to be pushed onto the dance floor, where you’ll find a surprising number of people dancing to Princess Leia’s Theme.
The Katet vs John Williams is on at The Jazz Bar on 24, 26, and 30 August. Buy tickets here.
The Katet has a second show at The Jazz Bar, The Katet vs 1995, which is on 25 and 27 August. Buy tickets here.
Press photos provided by The Katet.
