Saddle up kids, the Ambivalent Lovers are about to ride again.
Back in January, the Lovers (Amber Fults, Travis Kilgore, Hunter White, Hayley Graham and Butch Ross) put together a night of Queen at Rhythm & Brews backed up by a 20-voice choir and string sextet, no less. The sold-out show remains the largest production to date ever hosted by that venue and now, thanks to popular demand, they’re going to do it again.
Round two takes place the day after Thanksgiving and will feature a leaner but no less talented ensemble. The Lovers will be joined that evening by David Ingle on keys, and backing vocals will be provided by Marianna Allen, Sarah Kate Patten and Trish Wileman. Expect to hear an assortment of Queen’s greatest hits, along with audience requests and a few personal favorites of the band.
According to Ross, there are a number of motivations behind the encore presentation—not the least of which is the popularity of the last show. Indeed, a fair number of people hoping to arrive coolly and fashionably late were turned away from the sold-out venue (hint: Get there early, kids).
Beyond the popularity of the music and the show, there is a deeper and more personal reason, which is simply that it is such a challenge. Freddie Mercury’s legendary presence and prowess often overshadow the fact that the entire band was a powerhouse of ability, and trying to capture that now, particularly with the streamlined lineup the band is assuming this time, is a test of intestinal fortitude the band can’t pass up.
—MTM