Get Yer Bone On!

On Friday, March 12th, I got the opportunity (again) to see the best funk/jazz/rock band in New Orleans, Bonerama. This trombone quartet (now trio) played at the Orpheum theatre in Sioux Falls, SD. After seeing them live in New Orleans at the world famous Tipitina's and at an outdoor music festival in Michigan, this was quite the change in venue. For those who have never been to the Orpheum in SF, it is a nice concert hall with plush seats, balcony seating and plenty of blue hairs; more on that in a moment. Bonerama was brought to Sioux Falls by the Sioux Falls Jazz and Blues Society as a part of their concert series. Upon entering the venue, one couldn't help but notice many of the spectators dressed to the nines and appeared ready for a evening of sophisticated, elegant, contemporary music. Unfortunately, Bonerama are non of those. The band was introduced by the master of ceremonies, who ended with "typically the doors close following the start of the concert, however, tonight the doors will remain open and people should feel free to frequent the concessions for drinks", one has to wonder if this was changed upon request of the band. The lights dimmed and the band took stage. Within seconds, the band was greeted by piercing whistles, frantic clapping and hollering from the balcony, specifically row 6, seats 5 through 10 (those occupied by none other than myself, my wife and our rowdy compatriots). In retrospect, I cannot help but think the septuagenarians sitting directly in front of us lost a little urine upon this greeting and throughout the concerts entirety due to our raucous escapades. Bonerama started with a slow ballad the three trombonists played in harmony. Following this, they blasted into a 7 minute tribute to The Meters. This song was brilliant and truly let the funk out! They continued to rock the house with their staple songs "Shake Your Rugalator", "Baronne", "Mr. Go" and a killer rendition of Led Zep's "Ocean." During the show, they gave props to the people in the balcony (we are going to take credit for that one). To close, Bonerama played a encore medley which included "When The Saints Go Marching In", and by that time the crowd was entirely into their trademark groove. Bonerama plays one of the best shows you will get an opportunity to see. Do yourself a favor and check them out next time you are in Nahlans. Bone up!