Monday, September 21, 2009

Karl Denson's Tiny Universe

I wandered up to Rock Island Illinois to see Karl Denson this weekend. Karl with his work with Lenny Kravitz, Greyboy Allstars, and now with his Tiny Universe have been a staple in the revitalization of funk and groove today. I was intrigued as the band has been on hiatus for about five years. Alot has happened to the genre in that time.
Karl has put out a new album that is more filled with heart lyrics than the complex musical arrangements and continuous grooves and jams as before. The crowd was small and unaware of the popularity of the band that stood before them once had. They snickered as I told them I made the trip from St Louis to experience the band.
The music was great but was going in such a different direction. They played a few instrumental favorites, but they were sandwiched in between some neo soul like pieces. Some with somewhat dark tones to the lyrics. As I enjoyed myself, I wondered if this type of music that years ago made me truly become passionate about music has changed. Then again look at the world,and I guess this effects us all.