The Pink Floyd Experience mesmerized audiences with an unforgettable concert at Wellington’s TSB Arena last Saturday. Marking the 50th anniversary of Pink Floyd’s iconic album, ‘The Dark Side of the Moon,’ the show was a remarkable tribute, leaving the audience captivated by the band’s flawless performance. The emotional rendition of ‘Great Gig in the Sky’ touched the hearts of everyone present, while Darren Whittaker’s mesmerizing guitar solos stood out as true highlights throughout the evening.
Keyboardist Glen Ahern, in an exclusive interview with UPDATE Wellington, revealed the immense effort invested in planning a concert of this magnitude. With 11 talented musicians on stage, the band spent six months meticulously programming and refining every aspect of their performance to authentically recreate Pink Floyd’s signature sound.
Glen, although joining the band later, emphasised the tremendous growth they have achieved during their 27-year existence. Founding member and lead guitarist, Darren Whittaker, shared, ‘We started as just four guys, me and three others in the band. We were just playing at people’s barbecues, you know, on a Sunday, maybe for a couple of joints and a beer each. So it’s quite funny that we’ve ended up doing these big stadium shows and taken the band overseas.’
The Pink Floyd Experience not only prioritised perfecting musicianship but also meticulously crafted lighting and visual elements. The concert transported the audience into Pink Floyd’s world, with intricately designed visuals that seamlessly intertwined with the music, creating an immersive and captivating experience. With their commitment to constant evolution, the band ingeniously incorporates fresh visual elements into each performance, guaranteeing that no two shows are ever the same. Glen Ahern affirmed this, stating, ‘every time we come back, we present a different show. We never repeat the same performance twice.’ This dedication to delivering unique and innovative experiences solidifies their concerts as mesmerizing and unforgettable for the audience.
During the video interview with UPDATE Wellington, Darren Whittaker provided a glimpse into the behind-the-scenes atmosphere, expressing gratitude to the hardworking crew who ensure the band is well-fed and energised throughout their demanding tour. The catering service, Kiwi Coffee and Kai Catering, allows the band and crew to focus on their performances without disruptions, fostering a seamless experience for everyone involved.
Overall, The Pink Floyd Experience’s concert in Wellington was a resounding success, blending exceptional musicianship, captivating visuals, and a profound appreciation for Pink Floyd’s timeless music. The band’s dedication and attention to detail ensured a night that paid homage to Pink Floyd’s legacy, leaving the audience awestruck and amazed by the extraordinary experience they had witnessed.
CONTRIBUTE
Have stories, yarns, mad scoops, or community news to share. We often pay for awesome content and life shattering stories. What have you witnessed?