Live Review: Snarky Puppy, The Goods

“This is our first time playing at The Enmore!” declared frontman for The Goods, Black Tree. Accompanied by two musicians with soul to burn in Badmandela (Boris Bangaltar) and Rosario D’Awesome, the vibe was a cocktail-by-the-pool chill mixed with a strutting-down-the-street swagger. Black Tree's ultra-warm vocals danced over the beat provided by D’Awesome on the kit as Badmandela fired off the swirling production.

The trio’s efforts warmed the crowd and a mood of giddy excitement swept across the packed Enmore for Snarky Puppy’s return to our shores after blowing Bluesfest and the country away in 2017. As nine members of the ever-evolving collective made their way to the stage, we were given a firsthand look at the make-up of the group which, on any given day, may be a different selection from the 25-odd players involved.

The band is led by bassist, keyboardist and producer, Michael League, who, with his fist in the air, a telling nod, subtle gesture or glance, has complete control of when the players start, when they transition and when they end. Joined by two keyboardists, a guitarist, drummer, percussionist, saxophonist/flautist and trumpeter-cum-synth player, each member would have their moment throughout the night to prove their musical worth.

One of the more exciting things about the group is that their musical style can turn on a dime. From the syncopated and jazzy Bad Kicks To The Back, to the laidback groove of While We’re Young, you never quite know what you’re going to get. The only thing for certain is that you will be lost in their sound.

The rotation of improvised solos around the band is one of the cornerstones of jazz and provides moments to reflect on the talents of the individual members. Shaun Martin’s solo using a talk box was a highlight, but so were the mind-bending drum and percussion solos from Jamison Ross and Keita Ogawa. Their synchronicity and sheer athleticism were out of this world.

With explosions of sound from all corners, some huge build-ups and the ability to turn subtle jazz arpeggios into foot-stomping walls of sound, you didn’t quite know where to look, but each member of the group appeared to be having as much fun as we were. 

Following their first encore, Shofukan, the crowd continued to sing the refrain as the band departed the stage. This continued for a good couple of minutes before they returned one last time for What About Me?, including the only bass solo of the night from the frontman.

With syncopated rhythms, blaring horns and soaring guitars ringing in our ears, sleep was never going to come easily thanks to the inspiration and energy that Snarky Puppy delivered.