Kudu: So Funky
By James Oyedijo


With the advent of mp3s and file-sharing, making money in this business of music has gotten harder. Artists who want a lasting career need a killer stage show. In the long run this may make music better, because those clowns that major labels seem to love are usually low in talent and extremely high in swagger and sex appeal. Say goodbye to all the over-marketed hype and hello to real live music.

Enter Kudu. This duo is the prototype for the modern music group. I remember seeing them for the first time last year at Nublu, a hole-and-corner spot in the Lower East Side, with no expectations. I’d heard their music already and enjoyed it, but you never know what the live show is going to be like. I’ve been disappointed many times. After entering the club’s unmarked door, I did a little people watching. Everyone seemed cool; this definitely wasn’t going to be an “I’m just here be seen” hipster-idiot-fest. People were genuinely there because they like booze, Nublu’s a good place to hang with friends, and the music is top-notch.

After knocking back a Knob Creek and a Stella, I’m in full effect and ready to hear what everyone is buzzing about. Then the bassline for Playing House begins. It’s one of those thick basslines that are so funky they make your stomach hurt. Deantoni starts drumming. Whoa! My head is nodding and I have one hand in the air. Sylvia G begins to sing, her hypnotic vocals coupled with the microphone effects (and possibly the Knob Creek) are turning this moment into a transcendental experience. I’m doing some crazy quick-foot dance moves. They have a new fan.


-- el fin.