Lake Street Dive
Evening Muse
April 12, 2013
While it's difficult to pinpoint what sparked all the buzz - a feature on NPR? a charming YouTubed cover of the Jackson 5's "I Want You Back"? - you can rest assured the band will need a larger venue the next time around.
Lake Street Dive's jazz/folk/pop blend might be relegated to a sleeping aid section of the music canon if not for the band's technical prowess - all four were students of the New England Conservatory - and fun demeanor.
Drummer Mike Calabrese knows how to keep the drums at bay, bassist Bridget Kearney can solo when needed or just set the groove low and guitarist/trumpeter Mike "McDuck" Olson keeps the songs moving. It's a nice balance that doesn't need flash because the band does everything else really well.
Price's vocals have range, strength and sass. It's not easy to find a musical combination that hits the notes between soul and jazz. However, Lake Street Dive is right on the mark.
When they cover George Michael's "Faith" or the previously mentioned "I Want You Back," they not only put their own stamp on it, but redefine it. With slow swing of the Jackson 5 tune, one crowd member summed it up best - "Take your time with it!" he yelled. Yes, sir, just sit back and enjoy.
Setlist
You Go Down Smooth
Miss Disregard
Henriette
Be Cool
Faith
Neighbor Song
Bobby
Bad Self Portraits
Don't Make Me
Elijah
Just Ask
Sometimes
Clear a Space
Use Me Up
What About Me
Let Me Roll It
Hello Goodbye
Stop Your Crying
Encore
I Want You Back