The band that Dennis Rodman wanted at his birthday party during the basketball playoffs - yes, *that* party that made national news - was Liquid Soul. Whether or not you agree with his on-court (or off-court) persona and image, Rodman sure hit the bulls-eye with this hot Chicago group.
Their self-titled debut breaks down barriers between old and young, between jazz, rap, hip-hop and pop in a way few acts can. "Worlds' (sic) On A Leash" sounds like it was taken from a fictitious 70's blaxpoitation soundtrack - but what's with all that scratching from D.J. Jesse De La Pen~a, just barely discernable in the background, but clearly an influence?
It's the new style. Brilliantly taking the lead from veteran saxophonist Mars Williams (who has worked with rock artists such as Billy Idol, Psychedelic Furs and Power Station), this sextet combines guitars, drums and horns to produce beautiful music.
But these cats know their roots. If you played their cover of John Coltrane's "Equinox" to an older generation, they'd nod their heads in approval at what today's class can do. At the same time, turn on "Afro Loop" at the playground (with rap by The Dirty M.F.) and watch the cries for "Is Brooklyn in da house?" stop immediately.
If Liquid Soul were a recipe, the chef would take a sprinkle of US3 or Guru - but less concentrated on the *rap* - and tack that on top of a healthy helping of the horns from Chicago or Tower of Power. Throw in a dash of Pen~a's mixing and scratching, and it's a culinary delight. And, their recent performance at New York City's S.O.B.'s inspired many in the crowd to spontaneously start dancing, whether in place, or down on the floor, drawing their energy from the band - and returning it in kind.
Liquid Soul...not just an album, but an experience.
