The Internet brought their unique blend of pop/funk/r&b to a packed Varsity Theater on Wednesday, October 17th. The five-piece outfit based in LA have been out touring the world in support of their recent release, Hive Mind.
The Internet came on right around 8:30 and opened up “Come Together”, a cut off of there latest drop Hive Mind. The song live had a real 70’s Philly R&B vibe The first thing that just blows you away is the power of the rhythm section. Patrick Page is a beast on the bass, laying down the funk so hard it penetrates the brain, travels down the spinal cord and invokes involuntary hip movement. Drummer Christopher Smith deftly complimented the bass, with runs offbeat and original. Together they laid down the way funky foundation that the rest of the show would be built upon.
Syd, whose vocals were intoxicating, dominated the stage. For a band that prides itself on being leaderless, Syd’s vocals and stage presence captivated the Varsity crowd. While she shared vocals with Guitarist Steve Lacy, “Roll (Burbank Funk)” and “Dontcha” belonged to her. Lacy had a very cool sound, reminiscent of P-Funk greats Eddie Hazel and Michael Hampton. The effect on the crowd was electric, the band had the entire theater singing and dancing like a giant house party.
Overall, the music felt loose and improvised, smooth jazz saturated with hip-hop. Sensual and seductive. The Internet are a genre defying band, classic yet contemporary and light years away from ordinary.
Set List:
Come Together – Roll (Burbank Funk) – Don’tcha – Get Away – Next Time – Stay The Night – Special Affair – Mood – Just Sayin’ – Bravo- Come Over – It Gets Better (With Time) – Gabby – Look At What You Started – Beat Goes On – Wanna Be – Girl – Hold On – Curse
