So. Fresh.

Photo by Chris McLaren

I arrived at Holocene, flashed my I.D. and downed a bit of vodka in preparation for what would prove to be an unusual set. In this instance, "unusual" comes with a ridiculously positive connotation. It was on this night that I witnessed prowess, taste and utter sophistication rarely displayed on the local level. This was the rare occasion where a show was actually NOT a rehearsal. Dolliver (and the DBL DRGNZ) opened with "Sail", a funky little throwback featuring some syncopated clapping and a slick rhodes progression. Nothing brings on audience participation like hands hitting in succession (and what a way to start). As the set progressed the energy in the room exponentially increased. The melancholic pedal steel intermixed with jazz infused rhodes, complex yet effortless bass and minimalist guitar nearly floated atop the groove laced foundation set by Drew Shoals on drums. Completing this wondrous landscape was the cool and controlled vocal dexterity of Ryan Dolliver. Competent and refined, Dolliver's melodies brought the show home.

A universal sentiment of respect resonated in that space. The band managed to pay homage to old school funk, rock and soul while stepping out on their own to further prove that they are a relevant, talented and inspiring voice in this uneasy music scene. Get Down to Get Up, the latest release from Ryan Dolliver, is out now on Visceral Impulse.

www.myspace.com/ryandolliver