Rick Wakeman, the renowned keyboardist, composer, and former member of the progressive rock band Yes, brings his celebrated concept album "The Six Wives of Henry VIII" to life with a special performance at the historic Hampton Court Palace. The concert, recorded in 2009, features Wakeman and his band re-imagining the album's classic tracks, which were inspired by King Henry VIII's six wives and the tumultuous times surrounding their reigns.
The opening track "Catherine of Aragon" is an explosive start to the concert. Wakeman's keyboard playing is ethereal and commanding, seamlessly combining classical, rock, and jazz influences. The band is in perfect synchronicity, with drummer Tony Fernandez and guitarist Ant Glynne providing a solid foundation for the intricate keyboard flourishes.
Each of the six tracks on Wakeman's album is an instrumental that musically evokes the personalities and fates of each of Henry VIII's wives. "Anne Boleyn" simmers with an intense, foreboding energy, with a prominent guitar riff that sounds like a warning bell. "Jane Seymour" is more subdued and mournful, with a delicate piano introduction before building to a fiery crescendo. "Anne of Cleves" is lively and playful, with a jaunty piano melody that sounds like a courtly dance.
Wakeman's virtuosity is front and center throughout the concert, with extended keyboard solos that showcase his technical prowess and compositional savvy. "Catherine Howard" is a standout moment, with Wakeman building a dazzling wall of sound with layers of synths, organ, and piano. The atmosphere of the piece is dark and unnerving, reflecting the paranoia and intrigue that surrounded Henry's fifth wife.
The concert culminates with "Catherine Parr," the longest and perhaps most ambitious track on the album. It's a sweeping, epic piece that combines multiple musical styles and moods, building to a thrilling and triumphant finale. The band is joined by a choir and orchestra, adding a richness and depth to the already extravagant sound. Wakeman's playing is transcendent, with lightning-fast runs across the keyboards and a commanding stage presence that draws the audience in.
The concert production is top-notch, with multiple cameras capturing the action from all angles. The lighting design is especially impressive, with bold colors and dramatic effects that add to the atmosphere of each piece. The setting of Hampton Court Palace, with its ornate architecture and rich history, is the perfect backdrop for Wakeman's musical journey through Tudor England.
As an added bonus, the DVD also includes a documentary about the making of the album, featuring interviews with Wakeman and other band members. They discuss the inspiration behind the concept, the recording process, and the challenges of adapting the music for a live performance. It's a fascinating look behind the scenes of one of prog rock's most enduring and iconic albums.
Overall, Rick Wakeman's "The Six Wives of Henry VIII - Live at Hampton Court Palace" is a must-see for fans of classic rock, prog, and keyboard virtuosity. Wakeman's masterful playing, combined with the excellent band, choir, and orchestra, create an unforgettable musical experience that perfectly captures the drama and intrigue of Tudor England.
Rick Wakeman - The Six Wives of Henry VIII - Live at Hampton Court Palace is a 2019 music movie with a runtime of 1 hour and 47 minutes.
