Elvis – Young and Beautiful continues at Frankenstein Pub until 28 August.
Star rating: five stars ★ ★ ★ ★ ★
This year marks the 40th anniversary of the death of Elvis Presley, and to celebrate the life of The King, 24-year-old Oliver Harris brings him back to life in a month-long tribute at Frankenstein’s Bier Keller as part of the Edinburgh Free Fringe.
Despite the title, and the youthfulness of the performer, this one-man show, performed mostly to a backing track, is a review of Elvis’ greatest hits throughout the years, from ‘That’s Alright (Mama)’ in 1954 to ‘Burning Love’ in 1972.
And the pub setting aside, this is no karaoke tribute act – Harris has the looks, the voice and the moves to please any discerning Elvis fan. Indeed, the packed-to-capacity audience seemed to be made up of appreciative Elvis aficionados.
Harris’ voice, although untrained, has a beautiful quality. He demonstrates an impressive vocal capacity – sweet and delicate in the quieter, more mellow songs (‘Love Me Tender’, ‘Are You Lonesome Tonight’, ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’) and powerful and commanding in the showstoppers (‘Wonder of You’, ‘Jailhouse Rock’ and, most impressively, ‘An American Trilogy’). Whatever he was sipping throughout the show was clearly working!
While I’m not normally a fan of backing tracks, the quiffed Harris has curated a quality set of arrangements. But at his most effective, as in the title song ‘Young and Beautiful’, he eschews the backing for a simple self-played guitar accompaniment. I would have certainly preferred to hear more of this natural side to the performer.
Between the songs, the banter is light but delivered in Elvis’ characteristic drawl – somewhat shy, occasionally funny and ultimately endearing.
As Harris settled into the act, he encouraged more audience participation – not that they particularly needed it – and by the end had everyone singing along. The standing ovation after ‘Trilogy’ was guaranteed. (And it’s a mid-afternoon show, so I wonder how raucous the crowd would be after more alcohol?!).
A couple of technical sound glitches aside – and a set list taped to the mic stand – this was a professional and thoroughly enjoyable piece. Harris is destined for success with this simple but effective show.
Craig Glenday
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