Vandermark 5 - Detroit, Feb. 8, 2007

[Frisco]

Word of warning to those in the path of Vandermark 5 winter tour. Don't miss the group. Even if you've seen them countless times in the past, I think you're in for a new experience.

With cellist Fred Lonberg- Holm anchored in solidly as an integral part of the group, the dynamics have evolved and soared to new heights. Proclaimed as the "dancer of the group", bow in hand, devices at foot, Fred dances, scrapes, harmonizes, and adds both beautiful and raunchy melodies atop of the group sound. Dynamic indeed. The group has always been dynamic but never to the current extreme.

The current tour marks the first midwest/eastern tour that the band is able to utilize compositions written specifically with Lonberg-Holm as a member. Past performances have relied on modified arrangements to allow for the addition of Fred. Working mainly off of compositions from the current release, "A Discontinuous Line" and new material that has been recorded for a near future release, the band flows effortlessly through numerous changes within each piece, free improvising around the tight arangements, and at times producing a collective sound that threatens to tear the wall down.

As it is on the latest recording, Vandermark on baritone sax, bass clarinet, and Bb clarinet; Dave Rempis on tenor and alto saxes; Fred Lonberg-Holm on cello with and without devices; Kent Kessler on bass; and Tim Daisy on drums.

[Cem]

Thank you for the report, Pat. Say it loud, say it proud, it's V-5 out east you've got to check out! Very jealous here. You lucky buggahs... waiting for a west coast tour...

Feb 09, 2007: The Music Gallery Toronto, ON 8pm doors, $20/$25 dos
Feb 10, 2007: Zaphod Beeblebrox Ottawa, ON 8pm doors, $15/$17 dos
Feb 11, 2007: La Sala Rossa Montreal, QC 8:30 doors, $13/$15 dos
Feb 12, 2007: Firehouse Gallery Burlington, VT 7:30 doors, $10
Feb 13, 2007: Johnny D's Somerville, MA 8pm doors, $12
Feb 14, 2007: Piano's New York, NY 7:30 doors, $12/$15 dos
Feb 15, 2007: Union Hall Brooklyn, NY 8pm doors, $12/$15 dos
Feb 16, 2007: Jammin' Java Vienna, VA 8pm doors, $12/$15 dos
Feb 17, 2007: Andy Warhol Museum Pittsburgh, PA 7:30 doors, $12

[Captain Hate]

Lonberg-Holm adds a new element that piques my interest; too bad they haven't included the Beachland on this tour and hope that's not a prediction of things to not come.