The Steve Kimock Band took stage at Portland Oregon’s Crystal Ballroom, and within a few notes made sure that we all knew that this was not the same old S.K.B. Along with Steve’s guitar mastery, this incarnation featured the ultra funky Robert Walters from the 20th Congress on the keys; the silky smooth Rodney Holmes on drums, and the sensational Reed Mathis, from Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey on bass.
This new and improved lineup is a major upgrade from past S.K.B. projects. This is not necessarily based around the personnel involved, because each incarnation features talented musicians. Rather it is the musical philosophy of the band that sets it apart. Instead of focusing primarily on some ethereal spacey jazz numbers, that although were technically masterful, (as to be expected from Steve’s playing) are a little slow and mellow. This show was high energy, danceable, and all out groovin’, which is a formula for success in my book.
Individually each member of the band is an all-star in their own right, and together they coalesce into a musical juggernaut that is actually greater than the sum of its parts. Steve Kimock himself is a maestro on guitar. When he is so inspired, he can tear the roof off of any venue. Sometimes it takes a band to push him in the right direction to pull it off, and tonight this band did so. The rhythm section of Rodney Holmes and Reed Mathis seemed to play with one mind. They were locked in together all night, and drove the grooves home. Robert Walters may have been the MVP for the evening. Not only because he added so much funky depth to the jams that gave Steve just enough room to swirl his fluttering notes, but because his own solos were at times jaw dropping and body moving.
The first set started off a little slow at first, as the boys seemed to be feeling each other out, but midway through the “Cole's Law” opener they tightened the jam up and transitioned us through a slick version of “Tangled Hangers.” A major first set highlight for me was an absolutely raging version of “Dr. Zaius” that I thought might never end. The energy kept building higher and higher, and each time the band wound through the familiar melody of the song, they seemed to bring the intensity to the next level.
The second set was a thick and nasty groove fest. The jams were long and extended and the floor at the Crystal Ballroom was literally bouncing till the final note. Highlights include a fluid set opener of “It Is Up To You” followed by an aptly titled “Bouncer” which combined as a set opening one-two punch that was a musical odyssey all in its own. There is some incredible potential in this incarnation of the Steve Kimock Band and any lover of funky and thought-provoking music should do their ears a favor and check them out.
