The FleckTones

[Griff]

How often does a bassist steal the show? If Victor Wooten didn't last night it was only out of respect for his bandmates. Bela Fleck and the FleckTones were right there on the edge of jazz and jam rock. Each individual was given time to show off individual talents followed with some wild blendings. The even had a woman playing that wierd star trek instrument with the mag fields that you move your hands in to control the synth. That was interesting but she couldn't really create at the level of the other players. In all fairness it was the first time she'd played with them live.

Future Man was spectacular on the drumitar and his other assorted percussion toys. He really kept the band together. Despite being a Red Sox fan Jeff Coffin showed actual genius on the various saxes which he played. He also tore off a horn section riff playing two saxes at once, getting big laughs with his spit flying everywhere, fantastic. Apparently Bernie Williams plays on their new release which we just ordered along with Sam Bush Jerry Douglas and Nickel Creek very very cool. Remarkably my ears didn't hurt after. Its a funny thing if you play well enough you don't have to deafen your audience. Others should take note. I don't have to say anything about Bela. These guys are true music nerds, fabulous stuff. Atmosphere State Theatre Ithaca, tabouli and pot, lovely.