As a surprise to no one, Saturday was blazing hot, but that didn't stop the annual Seven Sense Festival from closing off Preston Street and holding down a good time. While Zanzabar was an air-conditioned oasis, I found myself out in the heat most of the time. I didn't get to see everything that I wanted to (including Joann and the Dakota, Projector, etc.), but here are the gems I that I did catch.
Otis Junior After his collaboration with Dr. Dundiff, his debut solo EP and several solid guest spots on Louisville hip-hop tracks, Otis Junior continues his exceptional year with the formation of Otis Junior and the Jesse Lees. A fulfilling extension, the group opened with a laid-back vibe, which didn't last long as the set ramped up, cutting through original material with a few choice covers sprinkled in — including a version of The Police’s “Roxanne" that featured a completely-rad drum solo that was far too short.
Blackfoot Gypsies I needed this set in the middle of the day. Blackfoot Gypsies is a blues-tinged party band that was hellbent on making the crowd forget any previous woes. They did a fantastic job, as their feet never stopped moving, and drummer Zack Murphy didn't stop beating the shit out of his kit. Two songs in and nobody had a problem anymore. We were all too busy shaking off all the sweat.
Cigar Box Guitars Cigar Box Guitars was the most impressive of the vendors this weekend. I normally think of these guitars as a three-stringed, low-quality craft that an adventurous art teacher might have, but let me tell you just how wrong I was. They are modestly priced and come in all sorts of shapes and sizes. There were acoustics, electrics and even a stand up bass with two horns jetting out of the sides. Nothing was shoddy about these.
Frederick The Younger Of all the times I've seen Frederick The Younger, this is the most complete they've ever been on stage. A full five-piece that has coalesced into a slinky, vintage pop powerhouse with tunes that pound, turn and groove, one after another.
Oh, and Frederick The Younger is for the children:
