An Incredible Ensemble of Musicians Bring Classic “Pink Floyd” and “Talking Heads” Songs to Life Along With A Heaping Helping of Les’s Bass – Photos and Review of the Les Claypool’s Fearless Flying Frog Brigade & Remain in Light Concert at the Hard Rock Live in Tampa, FL

This Tuesday provided Primus and Talking Heads afficianados with an incredibly memorable evening at the Hard Rock Live in Tampa, Florida. Fans were treated to an extraordinary musical journey with Les Claypool’s Fearless Flying Frog Brigade, which features not only Les Claypool but also Sean Lennon along with a rotating cast of other incredible musicians. The band, known for their unique fusion of rock, funk, and experimental sounds, delivered an exceptional performance that left the audience in awe. Accompanied by the remarkable opening act Remain in Light featuring Adrian Belew and Jerry Harrison, the night was a celebration of progressive music at its finest.

The night began with Remain in Light taking the stage, and the audience was immediately captivated by the talent and energy emanating from these seasoned musicians. The group is led by the incomparable Adrian Belew and Jerry Harrison, both of whom are renowned for their work with the Talking Heads, along with dozens of other bands between them including King Crimson and David Bowie. The band is a celebration of the Talking Heads album of the same name, and the setlist consisted mostly of material from Remain in Light along with some other incredible covers throughout the setlist. Their flawless execution of the intricate musical arrangements created an immersive and captivating experience, setting the stage for the remarkable night that lay ahead.

As anticipation filled the air, Les Claypool’s Fearless Flying Frog Brigade graced the stage, and the crowd erupted with excitement. The band wasted no time diving into their repertoire, delivering a diverse and mesmerizing selection of songs that showcased their unparalleled musicianship and Claypool’s signature bass virtuosity. Throughout the night, the Frog Brigade seamlessly blended their own original compositions with covers and improvisations, creating a dynamic and ever-evolving performance. Claypool’s distinctive bass lines were nothing short of extraordinary, weaving intricate patterns that danced with his bandmates’ instrumental prowess, and Sean Lennon displayed his incredible guitar skills. The crowd was in a constant state of excitement, fully engaged and immersed in the sonic tapestry being woven before them.

One of the standout moments of the evening was when Les Claypool and his band embarked on the ambitious task of performing Pink Floyd’s legendary album “Animals” in its entirety. From the haunting opening notes of “Pigs on the Wing” to the epic soundscapes of “Dogs,” “Pigs (Three Different Ones),” and “Sheep,” the Fearless Flying Frog Brigade flawlessly captured the essence of Pink Floyd’s masterpiece while simultaneously making the songs their own. Their meticulous attention to detail and ability to recreate the intricate layers of the album left the audience in awe, completely immersing them in the sonic landscape crafted by Pink Floyd decades ago.

After a few more deep cuts from Les’s Holy Mackerel side project, Adrian Belew and Jerry Harrison of Remain in Light joined the band on stage for an epic cover of Primus’s “Southbound Pachyderm”. As the night drew to a close, the energy in the venue was electric, and the crowd erupted into thunderous applause, yearning for an encore. The Fearless Flying Frog Brigade obliged, treating the audience to a captivating performance of “Whamola” that left no doubt about their status as musical virtuosos. Les Claypool and his band’s fearless approach to their craft, combined with their flawless execution and unforgettable tribute to Pink Floyd’s Animals made for an extraordinary concert experience that will be etched in the memories of all those fortunate enough to be in attendance.