Springing off a phenomenal display of impressive instrumentals and powerful lyrics, Karl Denson and his crew jazzed up the night. Playing at the Vic Theater in Chicago, the acoustics were the right touch for the powerful rhythm and soul Denson's music echoed. The collaboration of genres heard in the music is universal and defines the name of the band, for you are truly in a tiny universe of expanding musical power. Crossing into fields of jazz, funk, jam and blues the music reaches out to such a vast array of people that no doubt hale this band for their unique and outreaching style. This evening in Chicago drew a blues crowd into the jazzy night club feel The Vic offered with this performance rolling through. The music sauced up the attendees as dance fever slammed over the audience. From stepping onto the stage, KDTU exploded the funky melodies from stage. From the get go, the big smile on Karl's face overlooking the crowd was a sincere draw. This man loves to spread the music. He has a sensational presence once entering onto the stage that you could feel. Making a name for himself through his polished instrumental talent accompanying many well-known musicians ranging in styles from jazz, rock to jam or pop-reggae. This experience shinned through as the music started, the funky playing of jazz flute was heard as Karl Denson came on stage with his crew plus one, the undisputed champion of beat-boxing Rahzel, exchanging melodies between the beat boxing machine and the whistle of the flute were herd with a improvisational jam showing two musical geniuses of their kind working it out on stage. As Rahzel stepped aside making more room for Karl Densons Band to really step it up and step it out, all the instruments alluding many different genres and touching the audience in many different ways manipulated from a vast array of music makers. The first set introduced the awe that was going to be produced throughout the performance. With upbeat blues which tapped your feet into slow down beat jazz flowing to your heart, then right back into music that shook your soul. The intensity behind each note was shining as the music continued. The lively tones which awoken those in attendance was one which sent positivity into the whole evening. The second set the band jumped right in and got down to business delivering the spirited vocals and matching back instruments. The lyrics burst out with hip words and moving chorus's. Music which expands on your views of how lyrics should be included. Words that just created a deeper meaning to the melodies. These words directed you into how fun and alive you can feel standing in front of passionate talent creating the tunes. The tunes were sharp and energizing to listen to. The animation involved in each band members playing was visually stimulating to see. Each person on stage adding a dash of positivity to the performance. Behind the vivid playing of Karl Denson on the Sax and flute was the rest of the population of his tiny universe. Guitarist Brian Jordan, bassist Chris Stillwell, keyboardist David Veith, trumpet player Chris Littlefield and drummer John Staton; all these musicians added a vigorous display of musical talent to the concert. The set played several well-known songs from this Tiny Universe such as, ”The Answer,” “Shake it Out” and “ Your Brother’s Keeper.” All songs which were sang in unison with the audience being popular with the fans. Overall the set came to a close with a vivacious ending. Coming back on stage for the encore, the crowd cheered as Denson beamed with delight looking over the attendee's, he continued to introduce the rest of the band members and give thanks to the Chicago crowd that joined the party on this evening. When reaching the Midwest on tour, KDTU knew how to burst through the rhythm and carry out a bold performance. Jazz in up the crowd and stunning those who came for a good time by making the night an absolute success. Karl Denson is an inspiration and he knows exactly how to vocalize on his positivity. While jamming out on the insane instrumentals he spreads to the audience, “It’s alright you can be you, You got to shake it out...” This is exactly what the crowd did, throughout the concert. |