The Russ Liquid Test dazzled New York City’s American Beauty this past Saturday, February 18th. In the wake of their debut album release, 1984, the electro-funk, psychedelically infused live project have set the tone for a modern take on a retro sound. Russell Scott, keyboard and trumpet virtuoso, has refined his trademark electronic foundations alongside guitarist Andrew Block and drummer Deven Trusclair. Scott gracefully lays a unique electronic foundation that is caressed by sonorous brass. The live music project transcends traditional funk with the deep integration of renowned instrumentals and old-school New Orleans soul.
The Russ Liquid Test marks their integration of trademark tracks with unique, live renditions. The group opened the evening with all-encompassing bass that swayed gracefully with pungent guitar riffs and penetrating drums. While Block evinced his string prowess, dazzling the crowd with enduring guitar solos, the ambiance shifted. Divine synths bubbled through the atmosphere, and Scott took an electronic-driven take on the instrumental mood.
“Yo, we’re all about abrupt beginnings here,” announced Scott as a jam driven rendition of “Honesty” encompassed the room in heavy brass and trippy vocals. The crowd received Scott’s proclamation with harmonious cheers and shared embraces. The track was drawn out in a mellow tone, caressed by Block’s guitar finesse. The track in itself is beautiful; incorporating elements from each genre, while including classically retro vocals with a psychedelic feel. Its live rendition, however, surpasses that of the record itself bolstering instrumental prominence.
“Honesty” was mixed into a vibrant version of “Let Me Stand,” a track that exudes the traditional Russ Liquid sound, yet is graced with the soft caress of enchanting vocals. Emily Nichols led the track into a sultry verse, crooning, “Let me stand all night.” The lyrics were penetrating in tone while they bloom in psychedelic build up. The track, flirting with bubbling synths, was drawn out by soulful and cutting guitar riffs. Graced by sonorous brass notes and light keys, leaving the room in musical entrancement.
The night continued with ambient synths complemented by roaring drums and impassioned guitar. Scott introduced, “Acid for Wagner,” from his album In Love. The track held faithful to its roots in liquefying synthesis, yet was aided by the warmth of brass and drums. It was drawn out into a jam led by bubbling trumpet notes and keyboard leads, along with the beautiful guitar riffs integral to the nights’ warm vibe.
The night concluded with intoxicating, trumpet-fueled jams that flooded American Beauty with a soulful groove. Each artist, in his skill, contributed extraordinarily to the music project that is now becoming a grand success. Each member provides a unique sound that is gloriously harmonic. The energy that radiates from the stage and onto the crowd is truly beautiful as fans leave beaming time and time again.
All photos courtesy of Djivan Schapira and B.a.D Photography. Full gallery below, including images of show opener Exmag.
