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Les Clochards are a rock’n’roll band. So what, there must be hundreds of rock bands on the planet. This band, however, has developed its own fun and idiosyncratic style.

To begin with, take their appearance. Imagine a bunch of musicians down on their luck, penniless and looking like tramps. They come across a rock’n’roll junk yard. They equip themselves with discarded instruments and clothes, and take to the road.

When they perform, they parody the posing, prancing and pelvic thrusts of numerous high profile groups. What makes their parodying work is that they can deliver a solid, driving rock sound whilst clowning about.

Their set consists of around a dozen numbers. Their choice of music is unusual. There is something recognisable from The Jungle Book and Frank Sinatra but given an AC/DC type rock treatment. I particularly enjoyed their version of Madonna’s Like a Virgin with that Stevie Wonder keyboard riff in there somewhere.

Any reviewer has to be influenced by an audience’s reaction. They enjoyed what they saw and I was tapping my feet and clapping along like everyone else.

Reviewed by Ben

Assembly/Bosco Theatre: 3

2 to 27 August 2012 (not 13 & 20)

19.30 – 20.30

Fringe Programme Page Number: 217