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Posts Tagged ‘George Porter Jr.’

Bowlive III: Night Nine – Soulive w/ George Porter Jr., Ledisi and Skerik ~ Extended Review + Media (03.09.12)

Posted in Residencies, Show Review, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on March 10, 2012| 1 Comment »

Bowlive III: Night Nine – Soulive w/ George Porter Jr., Ledisi and Skerik ~ Extended Review + Media (03.09.12): Bowlive Finale White Party Ledisi, The London Souls, and The Royal Family All-Stars TONIGHT!

Fire! Fire! Fire! These three little words are the simplest yet perfect definition of what occurred on the Brooklyn Bowl‘s stage last night for the ninth night of Soulive’s third annual ten night residency, Bowlive. So far, nine epically diverse nights of music have now been devoured by sold-out crowds of rabid NY music fans. The members of Soulive, the amazing Neal Evans on organ and bass keys, Eric Krasno, and the backbone of it all, Alan Evans on drums, were back at it for the last weekend of this fantastic run. After eight nights of raging musical collaborations, Soulive continued to deliver with an onslaught of some of America’s most influential musicians. The members of Soulive, The Bowlive Horns, George Porter, Jr., Eldar, Ledisi, Mark Whitfield, Nigel Hall and Alecia Chakour invested all their energy into making last night’s audience react just as powerfully as these musicians performed.

Last night’s opening act is one of the newest musical collaborations within the Royal Family. Nigel Hall and Alecia Chakour took to the stage with a “little help from their friends” to deliver a set of beautifully arranged classics.  These soul-filled vocalists are being compared to some of the greatest soul singing duos of our era and deserve all the love and recognition that comes their way. Supporting their slow, soulful vibe was drummer Adam Deitch (Break Science), trumpeter Eric Bloom (Diana Birch), guitarist Adam Smirnoff (Lettuce), saxophonist James Casey (6figures), Ryan Zoidis (Lettuce), and Alecia Chakour’s brother, bassist Alex Chakour. Nigel Hall sat behind his Rhodes keyboard while Alecia dominated the crowds command from the front of the stage. Performing such classics as Stevie Wonder’s “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” and The Righteous Brothers’ “You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling,” Hall and Chakour made the music their own with beautifully blended voices and arrangements of the songs. These two voices were meant to find each other and the audience couldn’t have been more invested in the harmonies and beauty resonating between them. Pure soul perfection. Keeping with the “Family Affair,” Mitch Chakour, Alecia and Alex’s father, was invited on stage to play keys for Joe Cocker’s “With a Little Help From my Friends!” When Nigel Hall and Alecia Chakour join forces on stage, their bond through music and their passion for soul pours out of them. This was only the second time the duo had performed as an organized set all their own and fans can be sure that it will not be their last. There is magic in this musical union that doesn’t come around often.

After such an touching set, NY-bsed DJ, Wyllys, spun on the 1’s and 2’s to keep the crowds elevated before Soulive took to the stage. When Soulive finally hit, they came out blasting with “Steppin.” This was the final weekend of Bowlive and the trio, who have been delivering us powerful sets for two weeks, raised their own bar a little higher.  After the short set with George Porter Jr. (The Meters) the previous night, Soulive jumped right into the second song by inviting New Orleans funkiest bassist back out on stage for “Pungee” and “Need More Time.” There is an energy that George Porter, Jr. brings to a stage that is tangible. Nigel Hall was back to join Porter for “Leave Me Alone,” but not before Nigel bowed at Porter’s feet letting the crowd know that this “was the funkiest black man in the universe!”

When special guest New Orleans singer-songwriter Ledisi was announced, the venue erupted. This portion of the set was so smokin’ that heat was rising from the stage. Performing “Knocking,” with Adam Deitch now on drums, Ledisi wowed the crowd with her powerful, demanding vocals and sensual style. There is no doubt that she deserves the multiple Grammy nominations that have come her way in the past few years as this was the definition of pure entertainment. “Chain of Fools” followed with The Bowlive Horns, Porter, and a surprise sit-in by Eldar, a fellow Grammy nominated pianist and composer. Surely one of the hottest portion of the night, confirmed by the buzz heard through the audience, Eldar delivered a complex piano solo while Ledisi scatted atop his gorgeous improvisational composition.  George Porter Jr. and the remaining musicians on stage supported this musical bliss to end one of the most magnificent sets of the run. Ledisi’s vocals supported by George Porter Jr. funky bass and combined with the jazzy vibe from Soulive and surprise guest Eldar was truly inspirational, uplifting and touched the audience’s soul. This is what Bowlive is all about, the deliverance of truly developed artists who are masters at their craft!!

Wyllys was spinning again for set break. Never using a set list, Wyllys kept the energy UP with choice selections of funk, R&B, and soul tunes. He kept the crowd dancing before Soulive came back for “Cannonball” supported by the Bowlive Horns. Always ready for something special and new, Soulive invited hard bop jazz guitarist Mark Whitfield on stage next for an electric rendition of George Benson’s “World is a Ghetto.” Following this amazing sit-in, George Porter, Jr. came back on stage and took the lead for the rest of the night performing multiple tunes from The Meters catalog, “Funky Miracle,” “The Dragon,” “People Say,” and “Ain’t No Use.”  The consistent funky bass lines and powerful, invested vocals coming from Porter during these selections fueled the set as well as the musicians sharing the stage. They were long arrangements making room for each artist to share their talent with rousing solos and epic extended jams. Tears were in the eyes of their audience as Eric Krasno and friends ended the set with a stunning, gorgeous arrangement of “Out in the Country.”

There are some music performances that are simply impossible to describe with words. Last night was one of those nights and any attempt at doing justice through written word seems unfulfilling after witnessing the magic of last night. The musical genius that poured off the stage resulted in emotional ballads and extended improvisational jams that expanded on the already amazing two weeks that Soulive has provided it’s audience. It’s painful to even imagine that this adventure is coming to an end. However, we still have one night!  A single night to enjoy one of the sickest musical residencies to happen to our musical community. Every night Soulive has stepped up their game, tightened their sound, and put together an arsenal of talented musicians to play some of the greatest songs ever written.  Tonight, Soulive invites Ledisi, The London Souls, and the Royal Family All-Stars to close out the residency. You can expect nothing but pure gold this evening as these boys will surely be going out with a bang! 

– Karen E. Dugan

– Photo courtesy of Marc Millman

*To see photos of these musicians and lots of other live music, please check out: http://www.marcmillmanphotos.com/music

Or

Become a fan of Facebook:
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Marc-Millman-Photography/203440567122?ref=ts

Youtube Videos

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Bowlive III: Night Eight – Soulive w/ George Porter Jr., Zach Deputy, Citizen Cope and Alice Smith ~ Extended Review + Media (03.08.12)

Posted in Residencies, Show Review, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on March 9, 2012| Leave a Comment »

Bowlive III: Night Eight – Soulive w/ George Porter Jr., Zach Deputy, Citizen Cope and Alice Smith ~ Extended Review + Media (03.08.12)

For the eighth night, Soulive members, Eric Krasno, Alan Evans and Neal Evans, performed at the Brooklyn Bowl for their annual residency, Bowlive.  In its third year, Bowlive has become one of the most interesting, engaging, educational and smoking residencies in New York City. There are some, who might argue, in America. Each night has gotten heavier, deeper, tighter, and energetically more invested with each guest who joins the stage to breath more life into the already amazing trio.

The Alecia Chakour Band opened last night to a huge crowd. Chakour joined the Bowlive rooster last year.  In the masculine crew that makes up the artists on the Royal Family Records Label, Alecia Chakour is a breath of fresh female energy. With a voice and range as powerful as Aretha Franklin, Chakour rightful deserves to be on stage with the talented musicians who make up Soulive. Chakour’s band members consisted of trumpeter Igmar Thomas (The Cypher), organist Neal Evans (Soulive), bassist and brother Alex Chakour, drummer Miles Arntzen (Antibalas), guitarist Sam Cohen (Apollo Sunshine), and saxophonist James Casey (6figures).  A highlight was when surprise guest artist Kofi Burbridge (The Derek Trucks band) lent his fluttering flute to the bunch on their new tune, “Surely.” The Alecia Chakour Band is a sick, tight, funky crew who fit right into the rotation of amazing acts that we have so far seen over the two week run.

Soulive members (guitarist Eric Krasno and soul brothers Alan Evans on drums and Neal Evans on clavinet) welcomed numerous guests on stage last night, some announced and some a surprise. This is always to be expected and they never disappoint. “Steppin” was the only song Soulive ever stood alone on stage for. After that, the flood gates opened with Kofi Burbridge jumping in on “El Ron” with the Bowlive Horns: saxophonist James Casey, trumpeter Eric Bloom and tenor saxophonist Ryan Zoidis. Special guest and Brooklyn resident Citizen Cope was next to join the stage to perform his original “Bullet and a Target,” and “Something to Believe In.” Cope’s raw, uncommon chords and proactive lyrics have been recognized and covered by likes of Carlos Santana, Dido, Sheryl Crow and Slipknot. His vocals transformed the bowl into a new vibe, a slower yet passionate part of the set. Alice Smith, the second vocalist billed that night, joined for Cope’s last tunes, “Ain’t Gonna Stand for It” and “107 Degrees.” Alice Smith’s voice melded beautifully with Cope’s the same way that Alecia Chakour’s voice melds perfectly with Nigel Halls. She is aggressive, serious, powerful, and passionate with a 4-octave vocal range and stunning stage presence. Cope exited the stage and Alice Smith, with the Soulive trio backing her, performed Cee Lo Green’s, “Fool For You.” The Bowlive Horns helped closed out the set with “Tuesday Night Squad,”as trumpeter Eric Bloom’s excitement spilled out of his animated solo and Nigel Hall took over the keys.

The second set was dedicated exclusively to the musical power of New Orleans yet contained special guests of varying styles. This was definitely one of the best sets of the entire run. Special guests, world renowned New Orleans bassist George Porter, Jr. (The Meters), drummer ?uestlove (The Roots), Billy Martin (Martin, Medeski and Wood), flautistKofi Burbridge and saxophonist Skerik, out for his third night, piled on stage with Soulive and the Bowlive horns. Covering New Orleans and Meters favorites “Just Kissed My Baby, “Hey Pocky Way,” “Come Fly with Me,” and “Funkify Your Life,” the musical entourage on stage was the definition of a Jam Room. George Porter, Jr. brought such life to the younger musicians who were surrounding him. Each artist took their turn power housing their instruments because Porter believes in the journey of the song and allowing it to unfold, which is exactly what happened on “Africa,” when Skerik took his solo and the classic song turned into a completely different creature.

Experimental jazz percussionist Billy Martin was left to his own devices with a pile of instruments to create sounds with after drumming for “Hey Pokey Way.” Martin is the drumming member of his own jazz, funk trio so his addition to Soulive allowed for experimental sounds that enhanced the layers of the music. “Everything is Everything” closed the set with Nigel Hall on vocals and another night of Bowlive ended, this time without and encore.  ?uestlove’s Bowl Train DJ set saw out the rest of  the night and everyone danced their way through funky, old skool tunes until their weary bodies said enough.

It’s unbelievable to think that the members of Soulive have been going full speed for eight crazy nights. What a testament to their level of stamina, creativity, and their ability to surprise and entice their audience.  For those who can’t make the last two nights, check out the live feed on iClips.net. For those of you with the ability to make it this weekend, you won’t be disappointed. Continuing his New Orleans flavor from last night, special guest George Porter Jr. will be joined by Ledisi with Nigel Hall and Alecia Chakour opening. We can only speculate who the surprise guests will be, but you can be sure they will bring in Bowlive’s final weekend in FULL RAGE!!!

BUY SINGLE DAY TICKETS NOW!
Can’t make the LIVE RAGE? Stream It on iClips.net!

– Karen E. Dugan
– Photo courtesy of Phrazz

Youtube Videos

Soulive feat. Citizen Cope – “Bullet & a Target” : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hoFGGhF_z2s

Soulive feat. George Porter & Nigel Hall – “Come Fly Away” : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=azUKgsH7ztY

Soulive feat Alice Smith & Citizen Cope – “107 Degrees” : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HdVFSkp-YEg

Soulive feat. George Por ter, Nigel & Kofi – “Voices Inside” : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7cRBqKlyAHc

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Artist Spotlight: Karl Denson’s Sexual Chocolate

Posted in Artist Spotlight, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on May 5, 2011| 2 Comments »

Introducing Sexual Chocolate!

Introducing Sexual Chocolate!

With the release of the Jam Cruise line up yesterday, I can’t stop thinking of the artist and how they impact our time on the boat.  Running into them in the elevators, having them knock on your cabin door when they hear the pop of a champagne bottle or laying down their food tray to have a leisurely meal with a fan in the dining hall.

As I looked at the line up, I noticed the familiar names.  There is always a George Porter project, an Eric Krasno project, a Karl Denson project.  The latter is the artist I have been thinking the most about.   I just missed two nights of a 3-set GreyBoy Allstars show at the Brooklyn Bowl due to being in the hospital taking care of my boy toy, Josh!

I met Josh at the Karl Denson Tiny Universe shows just about a year or so ago.  During Bowlive 2010, Josh and I actually got a chance to speak to him and thank him for helping us meet.  His response to us: “Just make sure you show me pictures of the children.” Classic Karl. Needless to say, he holds a special place in our hearts.

Karl’s name is yet again plastered as a Jam Cruise headliner, leading his project Karl Denson Tiny Universe.  It was on my first Jam Cruise, Jam Cruise 8, that I truly got to experience Karl Denson in all his glory.  But not as a member of The GreyBoy Allstars, not as a member of The Tiny Universe.  No, this project was called Sexual Chocolate.

Karl Denson rockin his wig!

Karl Denson rockin his wig!

With outstanding talent, worth ethic and enthusiasm, Karl Denson is one of the most respected men in the Funk music community.  Amazing us with his saxophone and flute skills, among other instruments, Karl Denson fronts bands such as Karl Denson Tiny Universe and GreyBoy Allstars! But have you ever heard of his involvement with Sexual Chocolate?

If you haven’t already watched it, go rent Coming to America!  Eddie Murphy plays many rolls throughout the movie but the best role was as the band leader of Sexual Chocolate. And who’s playing saxophone for this gnarly band?  None other than our beloved Karl Denson.

Jeff Coffin and others

Jeff Coffin and others

For many years Sexual Chocolate was out of commission but lucky for us, Karl Denson decided to breathe life into this fictional band by performing a funky Sexual Chocolate set on Jam Cruise 8 in January of this year.

Backing Karl on stage was an Allstar cast consisting of the members of KDTU, Debrissa McKinney (Josh Phillips Folk Festival), Jeff Coffin (Bela Fleck and the Flecktones), Ivan Neville (Dumpstaphunk), Jans Ingber and Liza Oxnard (The Motet).  A super special surprise came when legendary harmonica player Lee Oskar (WAR), a guest on the boat, came out on Galaxy, an actual WAR cover.

Lee Oscar, famous Harmonica player/designer

Lee Oskar, famous Harmonica player/designer

Please enjoy these funky and jazzy tunes which can be downloaded below!

Download music set here!

Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe ~ 01-07-10 ~ JamCruise 8 ~ Theatro Carlo Felice ~ MSC Poesia

1. …banter… (2:01)
2. Front Money (5:57)
3. Galaxy  (13:25)
4. Groovy Thing (5:15)                                                   
5. Fallin’ (6:06)
6. Flute Down (8:54)
7. Mighty Rebel (9:23)
8. Groove On (9:31)

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Three Nights of The Funky Meters @ The Brooklyn Bowl (02.15-17.11)

Posted in Residencies, Show Review, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on February 25, 2011| 4 Comments »

The Funky Meters (Photo by Dino Perrucci)

The Funky Meters (Photo by Dino Perrucci)

Three Nights of The Funky Meters @ The Brooklyn Bowl (01.15-17.11)

This was an event!  In the same spirit as Phanatics travel to Coventry for three nights of Phish, died hard Meters fans traveled far and wide to witness The Funky Meters magic occur over a span of three nights at the beloved Brooklyn Bowl in Brooklyn, NY.

For having never been to New York, I have never felt more at home in a brand new place. I can’t help but compare the room to the Rock N Bowl in New Orleans, a similar venue with a bowling alley and large stage for music, but this room has a great layout. A bar in the back, with a large dance floor area, the stage straight ahead. And to the side, a few steps up, rows of bowling lanes, with a walkway in front, providing a side stage vantage that lets one really feel like part of the performance. Everywhere you stand, there is a great vantage point of the stage, the lighting is good and the sound quality anywhere in the room was great too. ~ NOLA resident, Ananda Atmore

George Porter Jr. (Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

George Porter Jr. (Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

Back in 1967, Art “Poppa Funk” Neville collected a funky gang of New Orleans musicians who would come to be known as The Meters, .  George Porter Jr. played bass, Art “Poppa Funk” Neville played keys, Joseph (Zigaboo) Modeliste on drums and Leo Nocentelli on guitar! In 1977, they called it quits, leaving behind a musical legacy cementing them as Funk pioneers.

Russel Batiste (Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

Once the group disbanded, Art “Poppa Funk” Neville joined with his brothers performing as The Neville Brothers while George Porter Jr. founded PBS, or Porter, Batiste and Stolz.  Since The Neville Brothers were not touring this season, Art Neville was openly available to hit the road with The Funky Meters, who are the members of PBS with the addition of Art “Poppa Funk” Neville.

Art “Poppa Funk” Neville – Keys
George Porter, Jr. – Bass
Brian Stoltz – Guitar
Russell Batiste, Jr. – Drums

Brian Stolz (Photo by Dino Perrucci)

Brian Stoltz (Photo by Dino Perrucci)

It had been three years since The Funky Meters last played together. When Brian Stoltz isn’t wowing the audience with his shredding guitar style with The Funky Meters, Ian Neville holds the guitar spot. Essentially, in the middle of all these Meters heads were PBS fans and EVERYONE was a George Porter Jr. fan! But, honestly, who doesn’t love George Porter Jr.?  Go check my facebook info under “religion”, you’ll find George Porter Jr.‘s name stands alone!

(Photo by Dino Perrucci)

(Photo by Dino Perrucci)

The Funky Meters (02.15.11)

Art “Poppa Funk” Neville – Keys
George Porter, Jr. – Bass
Brian Stoltz – Guitar
Russell Batiste, Jr. – Drums

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

I was lucky enough to have the wonderful New Orleans photographer Jeffrey Dupuis (Jeffrey Dupuis Photography) as a house guest for the three night run.  We arrived in Brooklyn just in time to grab something to eat some scrumptious $3.50 falafel sandwiches at Oasis, one of my favorite spots to hit before heading to The Brooklyn Bowl.

The turn out for a Tuesday night was exactly what we thought it would be. The venue was no where near sold out but the place was full of people who knew what was going to take place on stage that night. And what a great warm-up performance it was.

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

As they took the stage, each member had a blazing smile on their face and the audience was wild with applause. George Porter Jr. notices a couple in the audience wearing a “George Matters” tie-dyed tee shirt, the same shirt they had personally created and gifted to him many moons ago.  “I recognize that shirt,” he states as he starts the first jam, which was so unbelievably funky.

The following four songs were from The Meters catalog.  “The World” brought the funk full throttle as Brian Stoltz reminded me how much I had missed seeing him perform.  He is truly superb with his rock-driven funk guitar styling. “Fire on The Bayou” and “Change/Reform”  had the entire audience singing as they were the most recognizable Meters songs performed that night.  Porter growled deeply into the microphone as they pounded out a wonderful “Here Comes the Jungle Man” that book-ended a “They Don’t Know” tease.

The noticeable covers of the night were Lee Dorsey‘s “Get Out of My Life, Woman”, Professor Longhair‘s “Going to Mardi Gras” and Tom Waits‘s “Way Down in the Hole”. Porter and Russell Batiste, Jr. both pulled out solos that earned their own spot in the set list! Art showed his age but with a smile on his face, he played through with energy and had a few golden moments himself.

Best reason to do three nights: Rare Songs ~ NOLA Photographer Jeffrey Dupuis

In the end, we were given almost two hours of pure Funky Meters gold and we all walked out of The Brooklyn Bowl terribly excited and putting together our wish list for tomorrow night’s set list!

Set List – Night I
A Jam*
The World Is A Little Under The Weather >
Chicken Strut >
…Fire On The Bayou >
Cardova >
Get Out Of My Life Woman >
Here Come’s The Jungle Man >
They Don’t Know (tease) >
Here Come’s The Jungle Man >
Change/Reform >
Hang ‘Em High >
Africa >
Going To Mardi Gras >
Cabbage Alley >
Going To Mardi Gras >
Porter’s bass solo >
Way Down in The Hole >
Russel Drum Clinic>
Just Kissed My Baby
Porter’s bass solo >
Just Kissed My Baby >
It Ain’t No Use

* Art sings Billy Jean (Michael Jackson)

(Photo by Dino Perrucci)

(Photo by Dino Perrucci)

The Funky Meters (02.16.11)

Art “Poppa Funk” Neville – Keys
George Porter, Jr. – Bass
Brian Stoltz – Guitar
Russell Batiste, Jr. – Drums

Special Guests:
Nigel Hall– Vocals/Keys
Eric Krasno – Guitar
Adam Deitch – Drums

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

The second night had more of a turn out.  People had heard the buzz about the previous night and the venue was now 60-70% full.  My girlfriend, Ananda, was flying in from NOLA directly to the show.  As she flew towards us to the airport, my NYC crew and I hightailed it from Rockwood Music Hall after watching Nigel Hall Band perform on their quaint stage.  We all had our rage faces on as there would also be a third show we would be hitting after The Funky Meters.  As well, we had the knowledge of knowing that the Nigel Hall Band would be joining The Funky Meters on stage later that night. The excitement was never ending.

I had flown in straight from New Orleans, made my way through the crowd of smiling faces. Instant reunion with Jam Cruisers, NOLA to NY music lovers and friends old and new. It was my turn to come to their town. Love was everywhere, and the hugs and smiles were abundant, on stage and off. ~ NOLA Resident, Ananda Atmore

Porter was wearing yet another form of tie-dye shirt and Batiste was in another sports jersey, this time white.  The boys don’t stray too much from their signature styles.  Just like their first night, they started off with songs from The Meters catalog with favorites like “Here Come The Meter Man” and “Look-Ka Py Py.”

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

The covers of the evening were Roger Miller‘s “Chug-A-Lug,” Professor Longhair‘s “Tipitinas” and “Big Chief.”  The encore gave us “Higher” and “Sing A Simple Song,” both  Sly and The Family Stone covers while “Them Changes” was a Buddy Miles tune made popular by Jimi Hendrix and Band of Gypsies. “Peace Pipe” has me a bit confused. A friend suggested it might be a Mardi Gras Indian song.

“Love Slip Up on Ya” is a song specific to The Funky Meters catalog and Brian Stoltz once again blasted us with his masterful guitar. “Ride Me Dunky,” also a Funky Meters tune, saw Porter giving us his deep bass lines.

Stepping off stage for only a few moments, the fellas came on stage to perform “Be My Lady.”  However, as amazing as they were alone, The Funky Meters show blasted out of  control when the Nigel Hall Band took the stage for the remainder of the three-part encore.  Nigel grabbed the microphone, Adam Deitch sat in on drums and Eric Krasno played a second guitar for Sly Stone’s “Sing A Simple Song” and “Higher.”

I heard the first few notes of a familiar song, and thought “could it be?”. Are they really going to play it? YES! It was “Be my Lady”! This is an old Meters song that I haven’t heard performed in several years now, and a long time favorite of mine. This was my golden musical moment, and hearing them perform this song made the whole trip worth it in one moment. ~ NOLA Resident Ananda Atmore

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

The energy on stage was palpable. Watching Eric Krasno play across from Brian Stoltz was magnificent.  Two of my favorite guitarists having so much fun with each other on stage. Russell Batiste, Jr. banging on a cowbell, dancing all over the stage as he helped knock the energy up to another level. Art “Poppa Funk” Neville needed key changes shouted out a few times and then he left Nigel Hall to take over as he walked away for a breather and took the time to dance around to the music.

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

The Royal Family remained on the stage with the The Funky Meters to close out the show! And what a show this was.  The second night had been pure fire!! It was off to the third show of the night: DJ Nutritious‘s Bembe rage with Nigel Hall and Stephen Chopek.

Download Link To The Funky Meters @ The Brooklyn Bowl (02.16.11)

Set list – Night II
Here Comes The Meter Man >
Look-Ka Py Py >
Too Funky >
Bass intro Too >
Chug A Lug
Love Slip Up On Ya
Keep on Marching (Funky Soldier)
That Ain’t The Way to Carry On
Funkify Your Life
My Baby
Tipitina’
Hoo Chie Coo
Ride Me Dunky/Soul Island
Message From The Meters
People Say
Bass Intro too >
Big Chief>
Peace Pipe

Encore
Be My Lady
Sing A Simple Song*
Higher*
Them Changes*
Cissy Strut – tease*

*w/guest Nigel Hall, Eric Krasno & Adam Deitch

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

The Funky Meters (02.17.11)

Art “Poppa Funk” Neville – Keys
George Porter, Jr. – Bass
Brian Stoltz – Guitar
Russell Batiste, Jr. – Drums

Special Guests:
Eric Krasno – Guitar
?uestlove – Drums
Nikie Glaspie – Drums

(Photo by Alison Murphy)

(Photo by Allison Murphy)

Here we were, the third night of The Funky Meters.  The house was packed and this time, I was going to rage front row, right under George Porter, Jr.. I had taken myself from the front of the stage the previous nights to write on the elevated side of The Brooklyn Bowl because I knew I would dance away from my responsibility of writing if I was up front. Again, he is my religion after all.

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

As I walked around the venue throughout the show, I ran into musicians like Nikie Glaspie who was utilizing a bowling with her friends.  Henry Butler was standing amongst the crowd with a huge smile on his face.  Joe Russo and Eric Krasno were watching from backstage while the owner himself, Pete Shapiro, positioned himself atop a speaker right on the side stage sucking the entire thing in with a beaming persona.

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

It started off the same as the nights previous.  Batiste was wearing another green jersey, Porter was in yet another tie-die, Stoltz was in a button up with a few hipped out accessories. I forgot to mention his Kenny Rogers look he’s raging this tour.  He pulls it off nicely! The tapers were out in full force.  Sadly, even though I saw tapers each night, the third night was the only recording that could be found. Enjoy!

Download Link To The Funky Meters @ The Brooklyn Bowl (02.17.11)

The funky foursome brought the heat immediately after a funky, funky warm-up jam got the night started right.  Porter had his feet firmly planted into the ground as he put the bass in our face front row.

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

The night was full of amazing, jamming covers.  We got “Rainy Day Women” by Bob Dylan, “9 to 5” by Dolly Parton and “Love the One Your With” by Crosby, Stills and Nash.

(Photo by Alison Murphy)

(Photo by Allison Murphy)

There was a KILLER Rock-a-billy vibe during “Big Boss Man”, a Luther Dixon song made famous by Jimmy Reed.  They ran through “Simple Song” again, the Sly cover from the previous night.  The crowd was on fire, singing along to everything, filling in the lyrics when Art couldn’t remember them as they barely got through The Allman Brothers‘ “Midnight Rider” where Stoltz saved the day with a ripping guitar solo.

We had a few repeats with “Funkify Your Life”, “Hoochie Coo”, “Fiyo On The Bayo”, “Junko Partner” and “Cabbage Alley” among others. All audience favorites that we didn’t mind hearing over and over again.  “Aiko Aiko,” a James Crawford song made famous by the one and only Dr. John had the place erupting with dancing feet.


(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

The entire night was so high energy and the event was capping off such a full week of funky New Orleans Love, it was just outstanding. Towards the end of the night, Eric Krasno, Nikie Glaspie and ?uestlove joined the stage for a percussion driven rage. Batiste, Glaspie and ?uestlove took turns beating the drums, the cowbell and just about anything else they could find to hit within their reach.  Krasno was back on guitar facing off across Stoltz.

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

The encore saw Krasno leave the stage and then jump back on as they weren’t done with him yet. The wicked funky “Keep on Stretching Your Rubber Band” and “Audubon Zoo”, originally titled “All Asked For You” and changed by their manager, closed the three night run.

The 3rd night didn’t disappoint either. The set list speaks for itself really. They played again Sing a Simple Song, which had me on the front row jumping and smiling even more enthusiastically than before. And the encore of Keep on Stretching your rubber band. Pure Funky Meters magic. ~ NOLA Resident Ananda Atmore

The Funk Meter was off the charts this last night.  Even though watching The Funky Meters is similar to watching Furthur, in the respect that they aren’t spring chickens anymore, they brought the FIYO to the Brooklyn Bowl the past three nights.

(Photo by Alison Murphy)

(Photo by Allison Murphy)

I watched as all the men got up, gathered in the center of the stage and bowed before us.  Porter walked to the front of the stage and I got a smile and handshake from him as he continued down the line of people in the front row shaking hands and thanking the audience for coming. I might never wash this hand.

Alison Murphy caught Porter shaking my hand! (Photo by Alison Murphy)

Allison Murphy caught Porter shaking my hand! (Photo by Alison Murphy)

The final part of this musical adventure placed me upstairs in the backstage area, shaking hands, hugging and taking pictures with George Porter Jr.  It was a trio of nights that I will NEVER forget. I hope you enjoy(ed) the shows!!

Setlist: Night III
Jam >
Funky Miracle >
Funkify Your Life >
Rainy Day Women >
9 to 5
Hey Pocky Way >Cissy Strutt >
Love the one you’re with >
Hoochie Coo
He Bite Me (the Dragon) >
Voodoo Child* >
Fiyo on the Bayou >
Big Boss Man >
Aiko Aiko ^ >
Junko Partner >Midnight Rider >
Simple Song #  >
Cabbage Alley >
Baby What you want me to do >
Hey Pocky Way

Encore
(Keep on Stretching) your Rubber Band
Audubon Zoo (All asked for you)
* w/ Billy Jean (Michael Jackson) tease
^ w/ She’ll be coming round the mountain
# w/ Krasno, ?uestlove, Nikki Galaspie
(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

(Photo by Jeffrey Dupuis)

Me and my Religion :) GPJR!! (Photo by Ananda)

Me and my religion 🙂 GPJR!! (Photo by Ananda)

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7 Walkers Featuring Bill Kreutzmann, Papa Mali & George Porter, Jr. @ Brooklyn Bowl (05.28.10)

Posted in Show Review, tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on June 3, 2010| Leave a Comment »

7 Walkers @ The Brooklyn Bowl

7 Walkers @ The Brooklyn Bowl

The Grateful Dead and New Orleans.  Two epic names.  Names that will go down in history as forever changing the way we see and hear music.    One a group and one a location; both giants in the world of music.  Tonight at The Brooklyn Bowl, The 7 Walkers, a Papa Mali project extended from both, would bring us the greatest combination of NOLA Funk and The Grateful Dead.  An epic night of music.

Being praised as being one of the finest post-Jerry/Dead projects, this band is truly amazing. The line-up is simple yet dripping in super heavy talent and experience, consisting of:

Papa Mali – Guitar

Bill Kreutzmann – Drums

George Porter, Jr. – Bass

Matthew Hubbard – Keys

What?!?! SERIOUSLY!?!?!  I mean, how wonderful is that four-man band right there?  Now, I don’t even know Matthew Hubbard but the energy the other three bring to the stage alone, before even touching their instruments, it’s something you can’t handle.  Seriously, seeing giants like that walk out on to the stage, a mere 5 feet in front of you…your chest swells and your fingers start to tingle.  I imagine I am taking in…how do I say it?  It’s like they have brought the past with them.  All that energy from their past gigs, their past experiences…their connections to Jerry.  It was all centered right there on an intimate stage in Brooklyn aimed directly at us.  And with George Porter, Jr. on bass instead of Reed Mathis…FIRE!  How paralyzingly wonderful.  IMAGINE!!!  Bill Kreutzmann has played at every single Grateful Dead show ever.  Jerry’s BOY!  I mean come ON!!  Talent and experience at its BEST!!!  I know I say it all the time, but I WAS SOOO EXCITED!

Stage set to RAGE!

Stage set to RAGE!

When I first arrived at the venue it was no where close to being full.  In fact, we all commented on that fact as we found it shocking.  Once again, most people don’t recognize INSANELY GREAT music when it’s right in their back yard.

Matthew Hubbard @ The Brooklyn Bowl

Matthew Hubbard @ The Brooklyn Bowl

As I came around the bend from the bar, the dance floor was bare.  That is, except for the entire front of the stage which was littered end to end by members of Funk Live to the left, Jam Cruiser pals to the right, my taper and deadhead buddies smack in the middle  and other friends scattered about.  I can’t forget to mention how almost every single person was wearing a Dead shirt or NOLA pride shirt.  I LOOOVE the sight of my front row homies.  I truly do.  A line of faces all lighting up with smiles and I feel like I am with family.  It was a hug fest for about 5 minutes.  Always a great way to start off one’s night 🙂

(Tonight was also special because I finally got to meet up with fellow contributing writer, Brett B.!!  Big hugs homie!  I love what you have to say about music and your tats are hot!)

Bill is all smiles durin' a lil prep work...

Bill is all smiles durin' a lil prep work...

I have been to the Brooklyn Bowl a LOT.  But on this night, after a while, maybe it was just me or perhaps it was the pure energy of the room, but the venue seemed brighter, the atmosphere seemed looser and the general vibe seemed lighter then most nights at The Bowl.  It is hard not to feel comfortable and at ease in a room full of deadheads and hippies, especially ones colored so bright! I could feel it and my smile grew.

They came out, George’s back to the audience, Kreutzmann with a huge smile on his face getting situated.  And then immediately flew into a jamming rage.  First song on the set list read: SPACE, how appropriate! And SPACE they gave us, putting us all into the heady lock down that would define the night.

Bill Kreutzmann @ The Brooklyn Bowl

Bill Kreutzmann @ The Brooklyn Bowl

Papa Mali @ The Brooklyn Bowl

Papa Mali @ The Brooklyn Bowl

Right into the memory of Jerry, we were delivered DEAL.  Papa Mali releases a soulful growl as he leads the lyrics:  “Don’t let the deal go down.”  With his guitar resting on his portly belly, Papa delivers us the first guitar rage of the night and mouths drop.  To be honest, I wondered if I had ever seen him before. I’d listened to him a million times but I was seeing him play for the first time right there.  He was as good as I hoped he’d be.

The next song tugged on heart strings.  Men had their eyes closed and they were swaying.  Something about the Grateful Dead makes men romantic it seems, am I alone in thinking this?   In this case, they were thinking of their man crush, Pigpen, as Papa continued singing with Mr. Charlie.  At the end of the song, Kreutzmann raged up on his legs and down on the drums.  A little too hard cause the speakers to his left came crashing down on him, grazing his leg.  See, the power flies right off these bastards.  That power leaving the stage and slamming right into us, or in this case, the speakers.  You can’t make this stuff up.

George Porter, Jr. @ The Brooklyn Bowl

George Porter, Jr. @ The Brooklyn Bowl

We had a little taste of The Dead.  Now it was time for some NOLA flavor as Porter was tapped to sing Hey Pocky Way.  I am beginning to think this is the most covered song ever.  But the fact that it’s over played means everyone knows it and the crowd goes wild.  And on this night, the best part about this song was the audience.  Three songs in and the place was wild.  WILD!!  Oh, how I loved hearing Porter‘s voice.  I immediately started day dreaming of the boat and what the possibilities might be.  During his rage, Porter was off his chair and back down, his legs kicking him all over the place, he was IN IT!!  And then it got silent as Kreutzmann picked up his drums and started striking the skins fast as lighting.

The 7 Walkers @ The Brroklyn Bowl

The 7 Walkers @ The Brroklyn Bowl

Death Don’t Have No Mercy, a Grateful Dead tune, was next.  Matthew Hubbard stopped playing the keys and picked up the trombone that had been resting on the stage to his left. Such a slow song, such a soulful song, such a Jerry song.  Papa gave us a killer solo that reminisced of the swagger Jerry distilled through his guitar, all the while you could hear undertones of Papa trademark bayou style.  It was sultry, sexy, soulful.  People were dancing all over the venue, utilizing the open space to benefit their moods and environments.  It was perfect for so many reasons.

7 Walkers @ The Brooklyn Bowl

7 Walkers @ The Brooklyn Bowl (w/ excellent background artwork)

And then it was theme song time.  Matthew Hubbard gave us an amazing Organ Intro. He was REALLY good.  I am a sucker for keys but man, he was GOOD.  Not sure what I thought about all his “touch-down” moves he banged out after every solo but kick ass solos non-the-less.  Rage!  After a few minute of solid keys, 7 Walkers, new lyrics by Robert Hunter, was blasted out of the belly ‘de Papa.  As I stare at him, he started to morph into one of the characters from Where the Wild Things Are and I brought myself down to reality.  The music was trippy to say the least.  Matt had now jumped to the harmonica, jack of all trades this guy.  Papa Mali absolutely brought it with this song.  At one point, I feel like they teased Shining Star.

“7 Walkers walking in the sky / 7 Walkers watching from on high / 7 Walkers offer their protection / 7 Walkers lookin’ down from heaven”

Matthew Hubbard @ The Brooklyn Bowl

Matthew Hubbard @ The Brooklyn Bowl

The place was on FIRE and it wasn’t close to set break.  Everyone was having a grand ‘ol time at this point. The front row was littered with Dead Heads who longed for tour or just to be close to Kreutzmann.  Then you had the folks there who were ragin’ cause Papa Mali and Porter are the NOLA FUNK BOMBS!  Papa sang most of Lay My Burden Down and keys harmonized. Then the music stops for a bit.  Porter strummin’ on the strings, keys filling in the background.  Papa Mali says, “It’s nice to be back in Brooklyn.  I know I can get a nice slice.”  And right into The Dead’s Sugaree. Porter sang this while Matt raged the keys and Papa harmonized.  There was a big group hug between a bunch of the heads to my left at that moment up front of stage.  It made me so happy, so very happy. Others followed suit.  The venue was at its brightest that moment.  The love was palpable.  The joy was visual.  Exactly what this music represents, exactly what it was meant to evoke.

Wharf Rat closed out the set.  A slow, soulful song.  It was out of control with Papa‘s drawing voice.  And they captured that quintessential Dead sound so well, probably without even trying.  We were so VERY VERY pleased.

Artwork behind Bill

Artwork behind Bill

The 7 Walkers did not waste anytime kicking off the second set.  Kreutzmann took a raging drum solo and into Bertha, a Grateful Dead favorite, everyone was bouncing on their toes, kicking their heels, flipping their skirts. It was a hoedown of as we all sang together.  Hubbard was able to show us some of his fabulous key work.  Scaling up and down the board and striking the keys with ferocity.  Totally on point and captivating me.  Then Kreutzmann gave us the real thing. The real solo, HIS time to rage.  My buddy took a GREAT HD video of it leading into Lovelight.

Matthew Hubbard @ The Brooklyn Bowl

Matthew Hubbard @ The Brooklyn Bowl

Papa and Porter play off each other for a few measures before Papa pulls out to jam on his own line.   Kreutzmann tapped the cymbals.  And so Bottle Up And Go begins and starts to melts our faces.  It was time for the trippy guitar space of Papa‘s mind to play with the audience for a while.  Everyone got lost.  No words. Just SPACE as Porter holds the bass line allowing our own minds to take over and find it’s own adventure.

Bill & George @ The Brooklyn Bowl

Bill & George @ The Brooklyn Bowl

Papa Mali @ The Brooklyn Bowl

Papa Mali @ The Brooklyn Bowl

I Know Your Rider, another crowd pleasure, brought everyone’s head from swaying down to forward facing again and singing with the band.  Happy shiny people.  Another great keys rage from Hubbard and the dance party continued all over the venue.  Papa slide his guitar all across the stage and in our face.  This was a raging jam to be sure.  As I stood back and watched these masters ripe our faces off, I wondered about the other groups I love watching jam so much and how they don’t HOLD A CANDLE to the greatness that was taking place on stage.

George Porter, Jr. @ The Brooklyn Bowl

George Porter, Jr. @ The Brooklyn Bowl

I went on an adventure during Early In The Morning & Hey Baby Now so I don’t recall much.  It’s always nice to have something to look forward to in the recordings 🙂  I was not paying attention at this point, pen down, dancing all over the front row.  Bliss.  I was among my favorite friends, among my favorite songs and favorite musicians in my favorite venue.  How do YOU all feel when you are in that situation?? 🙂 Think about it and hold on to the good feeling you get!!

Papa Mali @ The Brooklyn Bowl

Papa Mali @ The Brooklyn Bowl

The New Orleans Crawl, I believe a new song written for the 7 Walkers by Robert Hunter, gave us a taste of NOLA again but more on the Bayou side then the funk….Professor Longhair-esque.  And finally, Goin Down The Road Feelin Bad closed out the set.  They had so much fun with this song.  You could tell they didn’t want to put down their instruments.  If they did, they were sure fooling us.  High energy, dancing in the STREETS!! As they left the stage, some hard core people were litterally crawling on it to get set lists and picks and whatnot but noone moved a muscle.  All screaming, the show would not be over.  The audience refused to let that happen.

Bill Kreutzmann @ The Brooklyn Bowl

Bill Kreutzmann @ The Brooklyn Bowl

In a lovely tribute to the premature death of Gary Coleman earlier that morning, The 7 Walkers came out and played the Different Strokes Theme amongst Junko Partner.   It was fitting and we all remembered our funny little friend as we danced around in the best of spirits.

Everyone was SO SUPER HIGH after the show.  Bouncing all over the place, I said goodbye to all my favorite people.  By far, this was the best turn out of MY musical krewe, forget the rest of NYC who missed an amazing musical opportunity.  The turn out from tonight had allowed all my various groups and friendship circles to collide and it was AWESOME!!!  To be able to turn around and look in any direction to see the WIDEST grins on my friends faces.  Music brings people together and that night, The 7 Walkers had aided in bringing us all much closer.

It was a magical night in the Brooklyn Bowl, that is for sure.  I PRAY that 7 Walkers comes around again.  And if they do, I suggest you pick up your ticket right away because the word from this performance has already spread like wild fire and they will be sure to sell out second time around!

Check out The 7 Walkers summer tour schedule.

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