The Beatles are supposed to be the kind of band that comes once in a generation. (At least that’s how my “Intro to Rock” professor at UNC described them.) The band brought an entirely new sound to the US, ushering in the British Invasion and Beatlemania. They dominated the charts for nearly a decade.

However, I think the Beatles are better described as a band that spans generations. How many other artists transformed music in such a dramatic way? How many other bands have inspired musicals, movies (I adore Across the Universe), and even a show by Cirque du Soleil? How many are loved just as much by the youngest generations as they are by the generations who experienced their live concerts?

Simple answer: none.

RAIN: A Tribute to The Beatles which is returning to Durham for a second time. From what I’ve gathered, if you never saw a Beatles performance, this is about as close as you’ll get to seeing a live concert nowadays, over forty years since the band called it quits.

The RAIN band recreates history by performing the Beatles’ music in the style and dress of the Beatles. For those few who saw a Beatles live concert, it’s sure to bring back memories; for others, it’s the exciting opportunity to experience the nearest thing to a Beatles concert for the first time. For a taste, look at some of the videos.

I’m excited to hear “Blackbird,” “Come Together,” and “All My Loving” played live onstage. Others may enjoy “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band,” “Let It Be,” “I Want to Hold Your Hand,” and “A Hard Day’s Night.” The only way their concert might be even better is if they played “Eleanor Rigby” with a proper string quartet (fingers crossed!).

You can find all the info you need on how to see the show at DPAC’s Website. And enjoy the show!