A Classic Night with a Classic Band

Since 1977 The Neville Brothers have been creating serious, heartfelt music and in the process have garnered a massive worldwide following. Their blending of sweet soul harmonies with gutbucket funk, pop and rock has won them critical acclaim and an adoring audience over the years. In an age of processed and programmed Soul singers, it is reassuring to know that the Brothers Neville still exist and can still get a crowd on their feet. The Vault 350 was the latest stop on the Neville’s tour a few months back and although the stylish venue was not at capacity, the room was filled with the type of R&B you just can’t find on the radio these days.

The evening started with the Latin rhythms of Los Pinguos. The band, hailing from Argentina played a strong set of Latin Jazz, Cumbias and Salsa to open the show. As the Neville Brothers took the stage the dance floor filled up and the group gave a textbook performance and clinic on the meaning of New Orleans style funk and groove. Aaron Neville has received the most attention within the quartet over the years, due to his solo career. He took center stage on a number of songs and in doing so proved to the audience why he is still the king of the falsetto. Aaron took control early on and had the crowd in the palm of his hand during his rendition of the classic, “A Change Gonna Come.” The song itself is an R&B/Gospel staple but in the hands of Mr. Neville it became a sobering celebration of African American dignity and pride.

As the night progressed the brothers held court and provided an array of soulful New Orleans Jazz/Funk for the audience. Soul classics such as “Tipitina’s, “Everybody Plays the Fool” and “Ball of Confusion” took on a new life and the female contingent in the audience had scarves and napkins waving in the air as Aaron serenaded them with the timeless classic “Tell It Like It Is”.

At a time when American Idol picks our pop stars (whether we like it or not) and singers are more likely to perform to a backing tape rather than a full band, The Neville Brothers performance felt like a breath of fresh air and a rebirth of true organic music for the masses. See them, listen and enjoy the next time they are in town.

For more information on the Neville Brothers, go to www.nevillebrothers.com.