Nick Mason’s Saucerful of Secrets – The State Theater – Minneapolis MN – October 4th 2022

By Todd Johnson 2 years ago

10/4/2022 Nick Mason’s Saucerful of Secrets @ the State Theater

Review and photos by Todd Johnson

There are a few bands that transcend the constraints of time and very few bands that every generation knows about. Pink Floyd is one of those bands. The drummer for that band, Nick Mason, is literally the backbeat of Pink Floyd. However, since Pink Floyd broke up decades ago (and played their final gig at Live 8 back July 2, 2005, Nick Mason had filled his time with car racing and different charitable concert events. Then in 2018, Nick Mason formed his new band “Nick Mason’s Saucerful of Secrets” to emphasize the early work of Pink Floyd during the Syd Barrett years. My understanding is that forming that band was the brainchild of guitarist Lee Harris. The Nick Mason’s Saucerful of Secrets band consists of Harris, legendary bassist Guy Pratt, guitarist Gary Kemp (of ‘Spandau Ballet’) and keyboard guru Dom Beken. 

This new collaboration is a very extraordinary gift to fans of Pink Floyd and sonically an amazing treat! It is such a great thing to see such a legend in person and play music that hasn’t been heard live for many, many years. One of the more extraordinary overtures is the song “Set the Controls for the Heart of the Sun” which I always thought was a song that could someone could base and entire sci-film around the music (and title) of this song. The song is that unique! Gary Kemp does a great job and keeps in spirit with original Syd Barrett tracks and you can tell the band is having a blast. Dom Beken also captures the psychedelics of the original music his keyboards. Guy Pratt who has played bass with the members of Pink Floyd for decades in different capacities for decades was amazing. Lee Harris, the architect of this musical idea, was awesome on guitar and we are so thankful he approached Nick Mason several years ago with the idea of the musical collaboration. Nick Mason’s Saucerful of Secrets is one of the most unique musical experiences that I have seen and I have been lucky to see it on this tour and the last one. If it comes to your town, DO NOT miss it!

Also, just so you know, there is no opening act for this band. Although I couldn’t imagine what band be fitting for such a unique music experience.