Live on Mars – last night at Buxton Opera House

I’m old enough to have been around when David Bowie was doing the rounds of the northern clubs – including Stockport’s Poco Poco circa 1970 – laying the foundations of what would become his rise to international stardom.

I have to be honest, at that time I could never imagine he would go on to become such a huge star and amass such an extensive catalogue of incredible songs. That being said when I saw The Beatles (at Buxton Pavilion Gardens), Cream, Pink Floyd and Hendrix, et al (in Stockport) I thought the same – so what do I know.

Sadly, Bowie (like many of the aforementioned) is no longer with us – so you’ll never have the chance to see the man in the flesh. However, you can experience an electrifying performance of his music by seeing Live on Mars, a tribute to the iconic pop hero.

The band played Buxton Opera House last night (Friday 23rd) and to say they were sensational really doesn’t do them justice. Two highly accomplished lead guitarists (yes two) plus a great bass player – backed up by a tremendous drummer and a keyboard player. Last but certainly not least the extremely talented Alex Thomas – who not only looks and sings like Bowie but is also a pretty accomplished sax player.

The set list included many of Bowie’s greatest tracks: The Jean Genie, Space Oddity, Life on Mars, Ziggy Stardust, Heroes, Ashes to Ashes, All The Young Dudes, Let’s Dance, The Man Who Sold The World, Changes, China Girl, Fashion, Moonage Daydream, Fame, Starman, Rebel Rebel, Sound & Vision, Modern Love and Young Americans – which towards the end saw many of the audience on their feet, rocking in the aisles.

Thankfully, Mr Thomas didn’t fall into the occasional tribute band trap of attempting to recreate the period clothes – I’d guess it’s damn near impossible (or impossibly expensive) to copy Bowie’s – or worse – speaking to the audience in a feaux accent. He let the music do the talking and man did he communicate with us.

You know when you’ve seen a great band when you’re itching to get home and rediscover the original artist’s back catalogue.

You may be new to Bowie or a lifelong fan – either way you wouldn’t have been disappointed.

You can check the band out on their Facebook page: @liveonmarsshow – or to whet your appetite: