An all-star band the likes of which accompanied Will Bernard March 26th doesn’t always work in the studio or on the stage. But the extended performance in the Highline Ballroom gave further credence to the chemistry of the diverse foursome.
Bernard went on at some length about the trek that took the quartet across the country but those travels could only approximate the ground these men covered in close to three hours. Individually and collectively, the four love to play together–though their generally stoic demeanor belies that– and the shelving of egos translates into a willingness to contribute as more than role players: Stanton Moore was jumping off his stool within five minutes to ensure he sounded like a full marching band from New Orleans, while Andy Hess continually astounded with the notes he coaxed from his ancient Fender axe: how can an extended bass line boom?
One wag was overheard to say John Medeski is doing Bernard a favor by playing in this group and to an extent that’s true: he lends cache as well as compositions to the mix. But John clearly enjoys himself because this music is far simpler than what he plays with Martin and Wood these days; obviously reminiscent of the truly groovy likes of Shackman, originals like "Baby Goat" give the whole band, not just this man with the organ, piano and melodica, a chance to dig in.
As the leader of the band Will Bernard may in fact be its least prominent member. Yet that comparatively reticent personality of his doesn’t camouflage his versatility on the guitar but only reaffirm how restrained he is. With or without a slide, Bernard manages to play only the most potent set of notes in a given progression, the sum total of which ignites the playing of his comrades or ratchets up the intensity already on the rise.
Their hard rockin’ funk collaboration doesn’t really constitute innovation, but it is nevertheless sophisticated in the way it appeals equally to the mind and the body. That’s why there wasn’t one dull moment during the course of the two sets Bernard and company played this Thursday night in New York.
