Two bands that I have seen a number of times are the Neveille Brothers and Little Feat. Each time has been a memorable event. All members of these bands give their all in concert. Night after night. From city to city all accross the USA and the world.
While both groups have received a fair share publicity, they are both well out of the mainstream. If you are not familiar with them, I urge you to check out their music. You will be pleasantly surprised. And while their recorded music is good, they really shine when playing live.
Their music is spicy and complex. They share a certain brotherhood of the beat.
They both have incredible sounds and much of their music is based on complicated rhythms. They have it down. And when you listen to them you just can’t keep from moving and grooving. Little Feat’s rhythm section is bolstered by Sam Clayton on congas, Kenny Gradney on bass and Richie Hayward playing the drums. Little Feat is one mean rhythm machine.
The following video is from a concert in Montreux, Switzerland July, 8, 1990. The Nevilles were in town and decide to sit in.
The Nevilles spread the gospel of New Orleans music. And indeed each o their shows has a Mardi Gras spice to it. The Neville’s have been around for a long time and the core of the band is made up of brother’s Art, Aaron, Cyril and Charles. As a amtter of fact each time I have seen the Neville’s it seems there are other members of the family who join in and add to the musical gumbo.
You can visit their website and get more tastes of the Neveille Brothers, here. The sweet voice of Aaron is also a great feature of this band. But they do rely on the backbone rhythm in their music.
What can I say about Little Feat? One of the best Rock and Roll bands in the world. I did get a chance to meet the entire band during a concert at Virginia Tech in the late 70’s. But that story is for another time.
Grab some Little Feat music, here and Neville Brothers music at this link.
Here is a great DVD the legendary Neville Brothers are joined by an extraordinary group of musical guests for an exciting, once in a lifetime musical event filmed live at the famed Storyville Jazz Hall in New Orleans.
Discover some Little Feat at with this tid bit. One of my favorites. Waiting for Columbus:
Rock on,
albert