Eclectic Vibes - March 2010
CD/DVD Micro Reviews by Andrew Frey
Repeat Heat
Last time we caught up with our friend Heatbox, he was performing his 11th show in 10 days, so we knew he was keeping busy. This time he performed a short but sweet set as part of Natty Nation’s Bob Marley Birthday Bash at the High Noon Saloon in Madison. We are always impressed with how he continues to refine and progress his vocal art and this night was no exception. The crowd swelled and grooved with each number as he assembled it live on stage as only he can. We planned on hanging out for the whole evening, but due to the building capacity crowd and some audience member’s horrific intestinal disarray which pervaded the club we decided to call it an early evening after his set. On the bright side, we will have another splendid opportunity to see him when he opens for Umphry’s McGee at the Orpheum Theatre on March 11th. Plus if you can’t make that show he has many others peppering the Minnesota and Wisconsin areas in the near future.
www.heatboxmusic.com
Cobblestone Jazz
The Modern Deep Left QuartetRecord Label: !K7 Records
Review published: March 2010
Rating: 4
Anchored by lackadaisical and typically repetitive throbbing house beats that glides through smooth free flowing extra minimalistic waves of jazz, funk and fusion spun electronica may be enticing to some, but this ultimately finds me unattached and ejecting in favor of something with more substance, flavor and zest.
Disco Biscuits
Planet AnthemRecord Label: SCI Fidelity/Diamond Riggs
Review published: March 2010
Rating: 7
Too many avenues of experimentation and guest musicians water down the overall appeal of this release for me. Their usual amazing jamtronica thrust still feeds familiar aspects but their revisioning here also splinters the output into other frontiers of varying success. Doubtlessly still a great live show though.
Ifdakar
On The EdgeRecord Label: IfdaInc
Review published: March 2010
Rating: 9
Years of performing at festivals and taverns throughout the Midwest has finally born musical fruit for this Appleton, WI group in the form of this captivating, enthusiastic and heart felt jam rock treat. Many more roads will be traveled and adventures embarked upon as this distinguished and liberating release propells them far and wide.
Mr. Gnome
Heave Yer SkeletonRecord Label:
Review published: March 2010
Rating: 8
Distant atmospheres billow, blast and flutter with fuzzy post punk rhythms and floaty female vocals. This lush psychedelic duo produces soliloquies that travel through near pop realms while maintaining an intimate dose of fantasy and artistic creativity. Mr. Gnome will be appearing 4/30 at The Frequency in Madison.
Primitive Culture
FantasyRecord Label: Hechtic Records
Review published: March 2010
Rating: 9
Seasoned musicians currently from Madison power up a full platter of spunky funky blues with happening horns and tasty guitar tribulations. The compositions are further cross pollinated with reggae grooves and multicultural vibrations.
Ami Saraiya
ArchaeologistRecord Label: Self Released
Review published: March 2010
Rating: 9
Sultry musical temptations shudder and delight throughout this deep and dreamy gypsy diatribe. Buffeted about on lilting waltzes bring forth a grand display of vocal and rhythmic variety from then and now as well as here and there.
Sharon Shannon
Saints & ScoundrelsRecord Label: The Daisy Label
Review published: March 2010
Rating: 9
A goodly smattering of Irish, Celtic and Cajun musical reflections show off the charm, versatility and capabilities of this multi-platinum award-winning accordion player. She is joined by a bevy of guests (way too many to list!) which broaden the allure and personality of this release to a certain point of irresistibility.
Rob Swift
The ArchitechtRecord Label: Ipecac Records
Review published: March 2010
Rating: 9
Quirky and jerky electronics incorporating elements flung far from most current norms. Divergently texturized by the two rapped vocal tracks; the rest of the release captures dynamics and mood from classical music samples to lead us on a unique electronic journey.
