Rubblebucket
(self-released)
Though they bear a downright silly name, Rubblebucket (nee Rubblebucket Orchestra) has crafted a fine sophomore album that wakens the senses and ramps up the adrenaline. It simply kicks ass. So what warrants the high praise? With eight to nine members playing instruments ranging from saxophone, trumpets, and bass to guitars, keyboards, and everything in-between Rubblebucket's album is far from dull.
Alex Toth (trumpet, hyperkinetics, percussion) and lead singer Kalmia Traver (tenor sax, baritone sax) gathered fellow musicians Adam Dotson (trombone, percussion), Darby Wolf (synths, organ), Craig Myers (percussion, n'goni), David Cole (drums), Ian Hersey (electric guitar), and Mark Stewart (bass). Together they combine several styles of music-world, reggae, jazz, dub, rock-to produce a fun and eclectic album that piques your ears right away. Full of lush horns, thumping bass and Kalmia Traver's powerful voice that manages to soar over the music; Rubblebucket takes you on a great ride from the first note to last and does not disappoint.
The opening track "November" commences the upbeat thrill ride and of the eleven track album several singles stand out, "Landing," "Maya," and "Ba Donso, We Did This" among others. From darker, foreboding sounds ("Don't Exaggerate") to buoyant jam sessions ("540 Groove"), Rubblebucket is a great, unclassifiable album that deserves several listens.
Standout Tracks: "Bikes," "Phillips Van" APRIL S. ENGRAM
