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Kiki & Herb - KIKI & HERB Live at the Knitting Factory (DVD Review)

February 6th, 2008

Official Site: http://www.kikiandherb.com/

Official MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/kikiherb

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ji5-_c9wpv0

by Bambi Weavil

I’ve heard about the legendary duo known as Kiki and Herb for the last few years, but never understand exactly who they were. I heard they were great live and finally, the opportunity to check them out live came from their latest DVD release, KIKI & HERB Live at the Knitting Factory. I was not disappointed, they were better than I expected and more entertaining than I could have imagined, I’ve found my newest guilty pleasure.

Justin Bond and Kenny Mellman, portraying their characters, Kiki and Herb respectively, are like a good drinking round at a bar. Kiki’s the chaser and Herb’s the straight drink, pardon the pun. Kiki’s character, a rambling drinker uninhibited about topics from Jerry Falwell to Jesus to sexuality, is quite the performer. Kiki’s over the top, has done it all and lives to drink about it. Kiki’s captivating and intoxicating style won me over very early on and very quickly. Herb, the gay accompanying pianist is the perfect partner and provides a stability to the duo. Their song style and interpretations are amazing and sharp and never lose their contemporary context. Their chemistry is evident, not only between themselves but their enthusiastic audience.

Their punk meets outsider-Broadway interpretation of original and popular cover songs from the pop, rock, and hip-hop genres, and their charming personalities (though I’d love to see a chance encounter with Elvira for one number), this is one show you shouldn’t miss if you’re new to the legendary Kiki & Herb.