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| deesha dyer |
| Play on Mr.McComb |
"Is he even human?"
The latest edition of the Sounds of Future Soul Series by Boombastics, Inc. and Walking Bear brought us an artist that is so flawless musically that he is easily in the upper echelon of modern talent (male and female) - Mr. Frank McComb. Before I get to his performance, let me give respect to the openers, DJ Junior from Eavesdrop radio and Philly funk/blues band, MOKA. Eavesdrop is one of the outlets that play the music I dig - European soul and house, so I figured I was safe with going early and enjoying some grup (fyi - the mustard BBQ wings are deeelicious). I went crazy when Junior played a track from UK Artist Ben Westbeech (who I like more than rice and beans). The musicians of MOKA have such good chemistry. I think the lead singer connected with the audience as far as lyrics, but her personality was a bit distant at times - like she forgot there were people watching and listening. Not necessarily a bad or good thing. Now on to Frank McComb! His band - which included a percussionist, drummer and bass player came out first and played this funky instrumental jam for about 3 minutes before McComb took the stage and started a piano and voice seduction of Stevie's "Superwoman" (the end of the song actually when it transitions to "Where Were You When I Needed You"). It was impeccable. I mean, many people have attempted Stevie before and it has been mediocre, but this was indeed beautiful. All the notes were hit, the emotion conveyed and the background music properly placed. McComb's smooth voice, clear articulation and passion was so smooth and welcoming. He continued on to his own material, often interacting with the audience - making jokes and even commenting to and amateur audience filmer that he didn't want to see that footage on YouTube (???). There was also a brief moment when the sit-down crowd started shouting suggestions and he would tease them with a verse or the chorus and then laughing he'd say, "But y'all don't know nothin' bout that!" McComb also acknowledged his blessing of being an independent artist (he had bootlegs that he printed up himself for sale) for over a decade and having such a loyal fanbase and the opportunity to tour. What he does on the piano with the addition of his solid band is something missing in music today. It was all natural, without machines and big gadgets. It was musicians making music from scratch. McComb's relationship with the Rhodes was deep. His manipulation of each key made it hard not to constantly just stare and vibe in those uncomfortable dinner seats. I had to leave 40 minutes into his set to be to work super early, but if he ever comes back to Philly - I am there. If the music coming out of this city can reflect McComb, we could once again be on top of the soul chain. There's always hope, right? More Pictures Frank McComb Music DJ Junior - Eavesdrop Radio MOKA Music
