The team of Richard Vitale/dr, Sari Morninghawk/v-perc, David Soule/b, Daniel Ramirez/g and Robert Shepard/woodwinds make up the group Stick Against Stones, which is recorded here in a concert setting. The band mixes styles of indie rock, reggae and Afro Pop, with even a bit of improvisational storytelling here and there. While the mix is a bit off balance, with the rhythm section way up front, the energy is still palpable, and Shepard’s alto sax on pieces such as “The Hopping Frog” and “Rhetoric” quite fervent. The lead vocals are earnest if a bit tinny, with lots of sardonic attitude in view.
Media Groove