Santa Cruz's own SHADY GROOVE returns to Moe's Alley for their fourth annual SHADY VALENTINE BASH.
Steeped in the musical history of the San Francisco Bay Area, Shady Groove delivers an invigorating dose of funky blues and jazz-infused rock and R&B. It is good-time dance music that draws from a diversity of American popular genres, and incorporates elements of gospel, reggae and other world music. Lengthy, improvisational flights through a wide range of musical styles provide the inspiration for high-spirited crowds whose kinetic dance floor energy serves as a vibrant counterpart to the musical journey transpiring on stage.
The strength of the group is reflected in the scope of their original material. From jazzy, ethereal, instrumental excursions to intelligent, lyrically honest songs, the music of Shady Groove ranges from reflective introspection to full-throttle, rocking abandon. They have developed a talent for crafting unique and distinguished original works, rooted in traditional influences, yet significantly evolved to express the unique insight and intuitive musical chemistry that are the substance of the band’s creativity. Whether singing their own material or digging into one of the classic covers they interpret, (the band covers works from Ritchie Havens, the Jerry Garcia Band, Jimmy Cliff, and a host of Motown, blues, and other artists), vocalist and guitarist Jerry Brown delivers the material with the honest feel of someone who has lived a life of music for over twenty years. Lead guitarist Matt Hartle creates hypnotic, astonishingly lyrical and fluid lines that render audiences spellbound. The animated rhythmic and melodic interplay of the guitarists sets the stage for the brand of fiery, spirited jamming that is the heart of Shady Groove’s live performances. Steve Sofranko infuses the mix with growling Hammond organ and soulful keyboard textures, establishing the dynamic tension that fuels their musical voyage. The magic, of course, is in the GROOVE. Bret Bailey’s big, propulsive dance beats and driving percussive exploits are fused with the thick, smooth bass grooves of Mark ‘Hoke’ Hokenson, to form the deep pockets and funky foundation for the improvisational journey that has earned the band its reputation as one of the Bay Area’s finest jam ensembles. |
