It has been a long winter, but the sun is finally starting to shine. A vast array of live jam music will be taking Buffalo by storm over the next few months.
Kicking it all off Friday night at the Tralf is Project Object, covering the music of rock 'n' roll legend Frank Zappa. It is hard to explain the groove this talented group of musicians possesses. It may be best characterized as a unique interpretation and blend of Zappa's major influences and styles; from rock to jazz to psychedelic, it all comes together with a satirical edge epitomized by Frank Zappa himself.
With three former members of Zappa's band (Don Preston, Napoleon Murphy and the man, the myth, the legend, Ike Willis), Project Object possesses three decades of Zappa history under their belt. They always put on an eclectic and enthralling live show and Friday's performance should be no different.
Lazlo Hollyfeld, who has been gaining prominence in the Buffalo and Western New York live music scenes, will open the show at 8:30 p.m. and Project Object will hit the stage around 9:20 p.m. Tickets are $16 in advance and $18 at the door, but the band is likely to sell out, so advance purchases are recommended.
Also on Friday night, Schleigho, one of the most talented and diverse bands on the live music circuit, will play at Broadway Joe's.
Schleigho delves into many American musical traditions and styles, while incorporating extensive mixtures of jazzy improvisations and explorations. This will be the first show of their spring tour, so the performers' energy should be high and the groove on point.
Not a standard benefit concert, the show will promote local music as well as help raise money to outfit Broadway Joe's with a sprinkler system, thereby bringing the bar in line with fire code requirements. The show will also feature UB undergraduate band Philly B Eats, rounding out the bill and making the tickets worthwhile.
Philly B Eats will open with their distinctively fresh blend of jazz/funk fusion that has caught on quickly in the Buffalo live music setting. The show starts at 10 p.m., with tickets costing $7.
Closing out the magnificent weekend of live music will be the roots-rock-reggae troop hailing from Ithaca, the Sim Redmond Band. They will showcase their talents at Nietzsche's Saturday, March 29, to close out the March music calendar and bring the groove with them into a heavily anticipated April.
Special guests Big Leg Emma will be co-headlining the bill, allowing for Sim Redmond to play the opening slot to get the party started.
Students who enjoy roots-reggae and getting down Rasta-style should make sure to see this altruistic assortment of guys and gals demonstrate their enlightening spirit and great vibrations. Afterward, Big Leg Emma will throw down a bluegrassy, granola-funk that is a tasty departure from most jam acts on the road these days. Those interested in grabbing drinks and listening to a refreshing evening of sweet sounds can stop down to Neitzsche's Saturday night.
There will be a $7 cover for this show and the Sim Redmond Band will take the stage at 10:30 p.m.
Photo: Courtesy of Laron Fomby
