Over the years Vikki Stone has accumulated a wide array of musical instruments - twenty to be exact. She has not mastered them all, but the focus is not so much on her musical dexterity but on the stories attached to these instruments.
Instrumental is a brilliantly crafted and superbly written musical memoir in which Stone uses her musical prowess and witty gift of the gab to deliver a melodic version of stand up.
Instrumental is essentially a soundtrack to Stone’s life. Jumping from instrument to instrument and with the help of a loop pedal and the wonders (as she calls it) of computer wizardry, she employs well-timed narration as well as cleverly written song to tell her story. Along the way, we are treated to flashback sequences, a psychological montage and even an appearance by Elton John.
Throughout the hour Stone candidly recounts her childhood, sharing amusing anecdotes and keen observations, all while keeping in perfect time with the underlying beat and rhythm. Regular mentions of her young-at-heart father make him the co-star of the proceedings; the stories involving him are particularly engaging and moving.
The rhythmic quality of the show gives this autobiographical hour a “beating heart” with the instruments aptly personifying the significant moments in her life. Stone is a talented and gifted storyteller; the narrative travels at a rapid pace but she never once loses control over the lyrical cadence of the show which I thought was an impressive feat.
Instrumental is a brilliantly crafted and superbly written musical memoir in which Stone uses her musical prowess and witty gift of the gab to deliver a melodic version of stand up. It is an upbeat, heartwarming and compelling journey of epic musical proportions.
