LAKEPORT >> The debate between the Beatles and the Rolling Stones has been going on ever since they first crossed paths on the charts 50 years ago. The argument at the time, and one that still persists, was that the Beatles were a pop group and the Stones were a rock band: the boys next door vs. the bad boys of rock.
So who’s better?
These two legendary bands will engage in an on-stage, throw down — a musical ‘shoot out’ if you will — on Sunday, October 26 at 7 p.m. at Soper Reese Theatre in Lakeport courtesy of tribute bands Abbey Road and Jumping Jack Flash.
Taking the side of the Fab Four is Abbey Road, one of the county’s top Beatles tribute bands. With and authentic costumes and gear, Abbey Road plays beloved songs spanning the Beatles’ career. They face off against renowned Stones tribute band Jumping Jack Flash, who offer a faithful rendition of the music and style of Mick Jagger, Keith Richards and the bad boys of the British Invasion.
Beatles vs. Stones recently concluded a three month residency at the Harrah’s Reno showroom. The October 26 show in Lakeport is part of a 110 stop tour of the U.S., Puerto Rico, Mexico and Canada and has been touring since 2011.
The show includes some of the more popular songs from the two rock pioneers and covers the scope of their musical careers, although the set list for Jumping Jack Flash usually includes Rolling Stones songs up to the 1980s.
“They may have more pop songs, but we kill it on the live show. They’re not even in the same league,” said Joey Infante, who performs as Jagger.
During the two-hour show, the bands perform three sets each, trading places in quick set changes and ending the night with an all-out encore involving both bands. The band members have their outfits custom-made, since avid fans know exactly what the Beatles wore onstage during different time periods in their careers. There’s a lot of good-natured jabbing between the bands as well.
“Without Beatlemania, the Stones might still be a cover band in London,” said Jesse Wilder, who plays George Harrison. “There’s no question that the Beatles set the standard.”
“It’s just a fun time and a cool back-and-forth nonstop show,” Wilder said.
Beatles vs. Stones — A Musical Shoot Out performs Sunday, October 26 at 7 pm at the Soper Reese Theatre. All seats reserved. Tickets are $30 plus applicable ticket fees and may be purchased by phoning (707) 263-0577 or online at www.soperreesetheatre.com. Tickets also available at the theatre Box Office on Fridays from 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and at The Travel Center, 1265 S. Main, Lakeport, Monday — Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The show is appropriate for all ages.
The Soper Reese Theatre is located at 275 S Main St., Lakeport
