ST. PAUL & THE BROKEN BONES – COLLEGE STREET MUSIC HALL

ST. PAUL & THE BROKEN BONES – COLLEGE STREET MUSIC HALL

By Ralph Beauchamp

On 2/23. St. Paul & The Broken Bones brought their momentum Angels in Science tour at College Street Music Hall in New Haven with Sugadaisy in direct support. SP&TBB is an eight-piece powerhouse that delivers a potent blend of R&B, soul, rock and timeless funk. Lead singer, Paul Janeway is a consummate performer who brings electricity to the house. His voice is extremely raspy and extremely soft. Janeway's vocals dispense tons of soulful undertones and fiery textures.

SP&TBB was founded in Birmingham, Alabama and has 5 full lengths under their belt. Each release has expanded their sound creating a wealth of imaginative tracks with impressive songwriting and powerful arrangements. In addition to Janeway, the ensemble consists of Browan Lollar (guitars/vocals), Jesse Phillips (bass), Kevin Leon (drums/percussion), Al Gamble (organ/piano), Allen Branstetter (trumpet), Amari Ansari (Sax ) and Chad Fisher (Trombone). These top musicians are steady. Their musicianship delivers an explosively loud cheer and sets off charismatic fireworks. These guys can play and play hard.

Opening the show was Sugadaisy. I couldn't find much information about the band, but this exciting quintet played a range of different genres. Born in Bowling Green, Ky., founding members Zach Littleton and Johny Lovan were childhood friends. Their music falls into the jam band arena but their sound throws tons of curves. Rock is filtered with folk, Americana and just plain weird. The vocals were strong and the five tracks tied together well. Songs like “Born this way” and “Dusk vs Dawn” entertained the sold out room. Their set was well received and I really felt like they made a lot of new friends.

Photographs by Ralph Beauchamp

Just St. Paul & The Broken Bones took the stage, College Street erupted. The troupe launched into a grand extended jam before Janeway entered. “Flow With It” started the dazzling groove. The elevated funk combined with the powerful bassline had the venue rocking instantly. Janeway's voice was full of sass and the band was kicking it from the get go. Paul mentioned that this was the tenth anniversary of their first release, Half the city, and the next three songs came from this album. Their huge hit 'Call Me' kept the crowd on their feet. “Half The City” and “I'm Torn Up” followed. Everyone was feeling the heat.

Photographs by Ralph Beauchamp

“Wolf In Rabbits Clothes” and “City Federal Building” came next. Both songs are set for release in 2023 Angels in Science Fiction album. In their entirety, every member of it SP&TBB took business solo. Fisher's on trombone was excellent, but each player had his time. The instrumental “Roach Clip” followed “Grass Is Greener”. At one point Janeway sang while traveling across space. The house was in absolute bliss. The set was completed with two stellar selections. “Gotitbad” was sweet and sexy. 'Apollo' blew the roof off with an amazing sax solo from Ansari.

The encore was just as incendiary. Janeway stepped out in his shiny robes and the music flowed like water. “Like Mighty River”, “Sanctify”, “Last Dance” and “Broken Bones and Pocket Change” capped off a thrilling night of persistent vibes and glorious beats.

An added bonus to the show was hanging out with our friends Troy and Lori and drinking afterwards with our dog park friends Cindy and Jeff. We spent a few hours talking about music, concerts and everything under the sun. A perfect end to a wonderful evening.

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