Seattle 11-piece Eldridge Gravy and the Court Supreme follow in the uproarious tradition of expansive funk ensembles that have been raising roofs since Nixon was befouling the Oval Office. The seven songs on their Us Is What Time It Is CD flaunt a fleet, fiery funk bolstered by soaring orchestrations, tight arrangements, and groin-grinding rhythms. Vocalist Eldridge Gravy recalls Stevie Wonder’s youthful, animated tenor, ably conveying the soulful inspiration upon which these units thrive. Sweet, sweaty times await you. (Tractor Tavern, 5213 Ballard Ave NW, 789-3599. 9:30 pm, $8, 21+.)
Dave Segal is a journalist and DJ living in Seattle. He has been writing about music since 1983. His stuff has appeared in Gale Research’s literary criticism series of reference books, Creem (when... More by Dave Segal
These guys put on a great show! I’m not a huge fan of the funk scene with its crazy costumes and uplifting mantras, but these guys are an exception to the rule. Check them out if you get a chance!