carwreck.com: around Boston harbor...

I went to see Soulive last night at Avalon. I had never heard them before yesterday and listened to a few tracks off of their website. I was intrigued as I heard that that are funky, jazzy and I would probably like them. Well I did like their music; it was somewhat like Maceo Parker, a little like the Meters, and very jammy. But it just didn't do it for me. I think I have become to critical of that kind of music. Or maybe I've heard too much which is VERY good, so I have a hard time appreciating jamband music which just OK. While each of their instrumental skills were amazing, their jams were long and repetetive and as a band they were not very tight and synchronized. Oh well, it is always good to hear new music though.

Sorry to hear you didn't enjoy yourself as much as Kate and I did. I agree that the middle of their set lacked a bit of... well... something... I guess you could say it was un-inspired, but the whole night really had a sort of genuine impromptu jazzy feel to it. I must say I'm surprised, but perhaps your feelings would be different had you stayed for the finale. They played until after 1:00, and ended with an amazing jam, each musician dropping out a couple of minutes after the previous until only the sax and organ were left. The ensuing musical battle reminded me of some crazy cross between Tim Reynolds and his crazy loops and beats played from a single guitar (represented here by Neal on the Hammond B-3) and talented saxophonist Jeff Coffin of Bela Fleck and the Flecktones (represented by Sam Kiniger on the Alto Sax). This was really the first time all night in which they really got to let it all hang out. Anyway, it was great to have you along, maybe we'll have better luck next time around. -Peace.