Masterpiece brings disco back with ‘70s tribute band
ABBA Gold hustles into Wilson Hall Auditorium
By Adam Lowe, contributing writer
Posted on October 5, 2006

For most of us at JMU, we never got the chance to experience what history books and VH1’s out-of-work comedians commonly refer to as “disco.” We might have heard our parents talk about it from time to time. Maybe they would even throw in words and phrases like “platform shoes,” “polyester,” “mirrored ball” and “the hustle.” But the most key element of disco was its music, and perhaps none captured the essence of this time than Sweden’s musical group, ABBA.

Best known for their songs “Dancing Queen,” “Mamma Mia” and “Fernando,” ABBA ruled the disco scene from the late ’70s to the early ’80s. And if you’re among the majority that never got the chance to catch them live in concert, then it’s your lucky day. Well, almost. The group’s number one tribute band, ABBA Gold, will be performing in Wilson Hall Auditorium as part of Masterpiece Season’s Encore series Friday, Oct. 6 at 8 p.m.

As with any tribute band, authenticity is essential, and ABBA Gold’s got that in spades. According to its Web site, the band’s costumes replicate ABBA’s most popular stage attire. Some of the instruments are even the same rare make and model used by the original performers. In addition to these, the group promises a completely live show, that is, this 10-piece band performs over 20 songs without any recorded backing vocal tracks or sequencing. The “Front Four” lead performers take on all of the original group’s voices, mannerisms and appearance, and with the help of two back-up singers and four more musicians, ABBA’s original wall of sound is recreated right before your very eyes.

In addition to performing its most popular hits, ABBA Gold will also play some of its namesake’s lesser-known and under-appreciated songs to give the audience a more enriching experience. Mixing some of disco’s greatest songs with interesting ABBA facts and trivia, ABBA Gold offers a high-energy stage show that will be sure to get people on their feet and dancing, clapping and singing along.

Tickets are still on sale at the Masterpiece Season Box Office in the Harrison Hall lobby, which is open noon to 4 p.m.