By James Cook
When Avery J walks into the room, you’ll know. His group explodes with style and presence. It would seem that no matter the size of the room, Avery J would find a way to make eye contact with everyone. Prior to their performance, he and his group, the BAs, are walking around the gallery space, calling out to friends and saying “hey” to strangers. The charisma is palpable and inviting, building an anticipation for their performance.
Photo By Drew Carlson
Avery is a true character and commands his space on stage - directing songs both as a front-man and bass-playing rhythm section member. The first moments are a smooth mix of soul and funk, the rest of the BA’s settling in nicely. In no time, the soulful melodies soar into a deep-groove, 70s funk-rock riff. Avery J is head-banging while a lead guitarist bends a saturated blues solo. Other songs settle into simple, repeatable blues riffs and chorus, a la Gary Clark Jr.. The BAs are a group of capable musicians who show quickly that they can reside in an array of styles. Their skills don’t, however, overshadow their chemistry and raw energy. As another song begins, another genre appears - over a tight, neo-soul beat, a vocalist to Avery’s left begins to rap. Bringing his own energy, the space between the vocal mic and first row continues to shrink.
Go see Avery J and the BA as soon as you can. The soul is smooth and the groove is real. In a Denver scene right with both a rich history and talent pool of jazz and funk musicians, it feels special to find a group play original material on such a united front. On top of the quality writing, Avery J is a true front-man capable of finding the party in any room.