Mark Ronson & The Business Intl.

Overview

If you have never seen Mark Ronson live then I have to warn you, almost every performance you witness subsequently will feel like a rip off. The range and diversity of Ronson’s production catalogue spans several genres. In some ways his tireless production acumen is in step with today’s hyper stimulated, spoilt for choice lifestyle. What impresses most is the cutting edge that he demonstrates across the board, from big band to hip hop to electronic pop.

Songs from Ronson’s current release, The Record Collection, feature collaborative efforts from artists including Boy George, Q-Tip, Miike Snow and others, all internationally acclaimed in their own right, and his band The Business Intl. One perceived drawback is that with so many big names understandably not in attendance how will the tracks stand up live? Rest assured, Ronson has a habit of sourcing incredible undiscovered talent and the occasional unexpected star to fill in wherever he goes. One advantage to his role as a producer performer is that he knows exactly what will work. His substitutes slot in seamlessly and their enthusiasm and often bemusing talent only add to the experience. Ronson himself also chips in with some of the vocals this time round. I liken them to breadsticks, in that not everyone enjoys them and they are really only there to give you something to nibble on before the main meal.

The originality of The Record Collection is in some ways a response to criticism of Ronson’s previous album titled Version. Although most Version tracks were scarcely recognisable, they were all deconstructed and reassembled covers, leading some critics to assert that there was a ceiling to Ronson’s ingenuity. The popular success of original tracks 'Bang Bang Bang', 'The bike song' and 'Somebody to love me' have acquitted Ronson of any such notions.

I can’t endorse what he did to his hair in the last 6 months, and I still question his judgement on that remake of The Smith’s Stop me, but few plan a performance as thoroughly and deliver it with the infections energy of Mark Ronson.

The event is now sold out.