Cosmopolitics and Family Groove Company fuse prog rock, jazz and funk at the Bottleneck

Sometimes the best shows are the ones you aren't even planning to go to. Driving downtown to catch a show at the Bottleneck, the hip-hop beats of a DJ at The Replay Lounge carried over the bar's outdoor patio walls, while Tyler Gregory's minstrel vocals echoed down from where he was busking near a street corner. Both were tempting, but ultimately the Bottleneck won, and as always it was a fantastic night out with friends.

The Cosmopolitics opened up with a long set, playing songs ranging from progressive rock to fusion jazz, with a bit of funk too. The band's progressive rock songs ringing of Frank Zappa, one song sounded reminiscent of John the Fisherman by Primus; there was definitely a strong Metal tone to some of the songs. Other tunes took a fusion-jazz groove that was both rockin' and smooth. But every song has a little of everything including a touch of funk that makes you wish you could jump up and dance. However, the band's complex rhythms and melodies are not to be trifled with.

The small crowd at the Bottleneck didn't dare try to find a beat to swing to even after The Cosmopolitics had been on stage for an hour. The band demonstrated a great understanding of unconventional beats and rhythms that are impressive, but heavy on the ears. Frank Zappa fans may have been excited to spasm and head-bang to the songs, but most of the crowd couldn't really get into it. Maybe if the audience were larger and more excited the band would have gotten a better reception. Perhaps it was because it was night before Easter Sunday and many students had gone home for the night - before waking to the creeping grumbles of Zombie Jesus - but the Bottleneck was surprisingly empty until quite late - for a Friday night. It was unfortunate how little energy the crowd had, but The Cosmopolitics were coming on very strong.

Aside from the band's intense skill and intricate styling, they had the energy of experienced musicians, giving the crowd its money's worth and then some. According to friends who had been at the Bottleneck from the start, the band began playing at 10, and they rocked on continuously until 11:30. The local band gave the Bottleneck a grade A performance, worthy of headlining a show with a more energetic crowd.

After a short break, Family Groove Company took the stage and immediately collected an even bigger crowd, filling the open gaps on the dance floor. In terms of skill Family Groove Company picked up right were the Cosmopolitics left off, rocking out with a practiced repertoire. Some songs leaped from one jamming beat and rhythm to something completely different, but equally brilliant so suddenly, yet smoothly, the crowd would hoot and cheer in appreciation before finding the new groove to dance to. The band's set was accompanied by a light show, using fog-machines, colorful, flashing, rotating lights and twisting, psychedelic kaleidoscope images, giving the venue a little more ambiance than the average show.

Family Groove Company's blend of jam, funk and jazz gripped the audience's attention from the start, drawing people out of their shells to dance. The band's guitarist, keyboardist, bassist and drummer all contributed integral parts to every song with both instruments and vocals that seemed to evoke a fire in the spirit of every audience member getting down on the dance floor.

From strong funk beats to smooth jazz jams, Family Groove Company kept up a fast paced, upbeat vibe that made the show a party. Cool folks already energized by The Cosmopolitics danced together front and center with tardy-party people who came ready to rage it, making the dance floor a funky hot-spot under the fog and lights. From 11:45 to 1:45 Family Groove Company played their hearts out, a show that was as awesomely fun as it was impressive.

Hailing from Chicago, Family Groove Company has a long list of shows scheduled across the Midwest. Most friends at the show said they came because they saw the band at Wakarusa in Lawrence a few years ago, or a show in town some time ago. One can only hope they will be back again soon!