BEATLEMANIA hit the Barbican on Saturday night as the Sixties were brought backfrom the dead in the form of the Bootleg Beatles.

With more than 35 years of touring behind them, it would be fair to say that the tribute band no longer had youth on their side. However, experience proved invaluable as hit after hit was performed. with no obvious evidence of strain.

Four iconic bowl cuts and matching grey suits introduced the first part of the show with A Hard Day’s Night, as the night kicked off with a range of hits from the albums of the early Sixties.

Aside from This Boy, the first half of the night was all about the swing. While the crowd were hesitant at first, after the first 30 minutes several members of the audience had jumped to their feet at the command of Twist and Shout.

The second half featured a few of the slower numbers. For while the night certainly showcased the swing, the various members performed alone with soul as well, with the most memorable being While My Guitar Gently Weeps, by George Harrison.

By the end of the night,half of the seats were empty, although fortunately this was due to an ever-growing crowd was at the front of the stage.

The Beatles never played at Woodstock, however by the end of the night YO10 began to take on the appearance of a scene at White Lake.

The final song before the inevitable encore – “Hey Jude”. Need I say more?

- Fiona Parker