Absolutely fab

It’s been 44 years since The Beatles’ last tour, but the members of tribute band Rain (most of whom also appeared in the Broadway production of Beatlemania) have been keeping their music alive in concert since the 1980s. John Lennon and Paul McCartney had a legendary (mostly friendly) rivalry, but Rain’s Steve Landes and Joey Curatolo were remarkably diplomatic as we sat them down for a head-to-head Q&A about the Fab Four’s legacy.

Steve Landes

Everyone has a favorite Beatle. What do you love about John?

I always enjoyed his witty humor, which was more twisted than the others, and he always seemed like the most rock ‘n’ roll of the four, musically. But mostly, I respect the person he grew into in his short life, striving to do his part in helping to bring us all together.

If you could only play one song John wrote for the rest of your life, which would you choose?

If it was just on musical terms, maybe “In My Life” or “Norwegian Wood” — beautiful songs, great melodies, interesting lyrics and chord progressions. But if it was purely on what the song stands for, it would have to be “Imagine.” That song says it all: At the end of the day, we are all one.

What’s your favorite Beatles era in terms of the music and fashion?

I love the early era, 1963-1964. The music was so raw, energetic and new. They built on American rock ‘n’ roll with amazing songwriting craftsmanship that was basically a minute-and-a-half roller coaster ride in musical form. Fashion-wise, what’s not to love about those tight black mod suits with the skinny ties and super-pointy Beatle boots?

Lennon and McCartney were known for their friendly rivalry. Is there any of that between you and Joey? Do you guys hang out on the tour bus kicking each other’s butts at Beatles: Rock Band?

I don’t think it’s so much rivalry as it is that we’re the two main Beatles geeks, so we’re each other’s cheerleaders and feed off each other’s strengths. He’s more in-tune sound-wise as the band’s musical director, and I help with our costume choices, selecting period correct guitars, sets, etc. So we complement each other in a lot of ways.

What’s the best aspect of getting to be a part of the ultimate tribute to the ultimate rock ‘n’ roll band?

Getting to be a rock star on stage, then just being me off stage. I truly get the best of both worlds!

Joey Curatolo

Everyone has their favorite Beatle. What do you love about Paul?

His voice, his looks and his famous charm.

If you could only play one song Paul wrote for the rest of your life, which would you choose?

It would have to be “The Long & Winding Road,” because I love its haunting melody.

What’s your favorite Beatles era in terms of the music and fashion?

“Rubber Soul” through “Sgt. Pepper.” After the touring years, the band went into the studio to write and record come of the classics we all sing today. I think they became more musical in the studio, where there were no distractions. With the release of “Sgt. Pepper,” they not only changed the way we listened to pop music, but what we were wearing while we listened.

What’s the best aspect of getting to be a part of the ultimate tribute to the ultimate rock ‘n’ roll band?

Being able to perform this music and deliver the message of peace and love to younger generations. I also love being able to satisfy my passion for the greatest music ever written and recorded.

Bret Love has been covering Atlanta’s arts and entertainment scene since 1993 for a variety of local, national and international publications. He also performs regularly with Jackpie Improv at Relapse Theatre in Midtown.