Local hip-hop and funk group Sophistafunk have been touring like crazy and even played at Guy Fieri’s birthday party after a successful appearance of Adam Gold’s Funk ‘n Waffles on Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives. They even sold out a show at San Francisco’s legendary Boom Boom Room. That’s huge news for a band founded in Syracuse, even if they are one of the most well-known. After weeks of touring the guys are heading back to ‘Cuse to play a Valentine’s Day concert at Metro on Westcott Street and I think it’s worth a look. Joining Sophistafunk is local one-man-band Joe Driscoll and Pigeons Playing Ping Pong. The show kicks off at 8:00 p.m. on February 14th.
When it comes to concerts on Westcott Street it’s a no-brainer that the Westcott Theater has you covered but this is a departure from the norm. Metro, a Westcott bar mostly known for sushi, is not the place you’d expect to find something like this–though Sophistafunk did perform there on Halloween. It’s clearly a much smaller venue and lacks a large stage, but to me, when it comes to Sophistafunk–the intimate shows are the best. Seeing them tear it up at Empire Brewing Co or at The Boneyard at Dinosaur BBQ (etc) is always fun. The energy of Jack Brown’s MCing, the power of E-Man’s drumming with a smile, and our buddy A Gold’s non-traditional Moog/synth work is best served up when the vibe is impromptu and rowdy. And it definitely will be at Metro. Sophistafunk is bringing professional, festival quality lights and sound to Metro–this isn’t some small bar show, but a real show. Get ready for a wild night.
I talked to Adam Gold yesterday about this show and he had something to share: “We are so pumped to bring the energy we have built up over the past six weeks on the road. It was our longest and most exciting tour yet, and the whole time we were just geeking about coming back to ‘Cuse and bringing it back to OUR PEOPLE!”
Joe Driscoll joins the funky ‘Cuse three-piece with his signature hip-hop-esque music that brings in live beat looping and other cool effects. Driscoll’s performances are varied and eclectic, but he generally live records drums and loops them before adding beat boxing and vocals to the mix. He layers a variety of musical textures and often sings and raps over the whole thing. It’s fun to watch. I wrote a more detailed article on his sound and influences (a long time ago) here. Also playing the show is a Baltimore band called Pigeons Playing Ping Pong. This up-and-coming group blends dance, funk, jazz, electronic music, rock, and much more in a highly energetic package. This is a band to look out for. I’m excited to see them perform.
I’m interested to see how everything works out for Metro. They better be ready because Sophistafunk has a huge local following and high energy shows. This is one really fun way to spend the after-dinner hours of Valentine’s (or Singles Awareness) Day. Plus it’s only $10 in advance or $12 at the door!
Sophistafunk featuring Joe Driscoll at Metro
Valentine’s Day 2013: Thursday, February 14th
Starts at 8:00 p.m.
Metro Lounge & Sushi Bar
505 Westcott Street (Directions)
(315) 428-0810
Tickets at the door, call Adam Gold (201) 264-2947 for advance tickets (minus $2).
Must be 21 or older. It is a bar, ya know.
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