Last Thursday night, October 8th, Dopapod came through Chicago’s intimate Bottom Lounge with The Nth Power and fans were treated to a lively evening filled with solid jamming. There was a small but dedicated crowd for the late-night weekday show, and both bands locked into the energy of the room and delivered powerful performances.
The Nth Power opened things up, and easily got the crowd moving with their infectious funk grooves. The group’s sound was well balanced between each of the members, and they seamlessly rotated the driver of each jam. Based on their stupendous “In-The-Zone” facial expressions, it was clear that the group was having fun, and they served as a perfect introduction to the night.
Dopapod came out swinging with a raucous rendition of “Turnin’ Knobs”, which hit a massive peak and drove the crowd into an immediate frenzy. Throughout the show they sounded as confident as ever, and the interplay between the band members was top-notch. During the jams and song transitions they constantly filled the room with texture and ambiance, and even when they were in open improv space they still felt fully in control of the musical direction. Keyboard virtuoso Eli Winderman led the group with his crisp and percussive style, while guitarist Rob Compa shredded with both potency and delicacy.
Other highlights included “Off the Cuff”, which entered into a wide open melodic jam where the band explored several interesting territories, a powerful “Braindead,” and an instrumental-heavy 2nd set with outstanding flow. The guys are on top of their game, and it looks like they’re only gaining steam. Be sure to catch them on their fall tour, including a big stop at NYC’s Irving Plaza on November 20th. Tickets are available for that show, here.
Setlist: Dopapod at Bottom Lounge, Chicago, IL – 10/8/15
Set I: Turnin’ Knobs, Psycho Nature, Picture in Picture -> Braindead, Off the Cuff -> Give it a Name
Set II: Donkey Kong Theme -> Onionhead > Flipped -> Sleeping Giant > Flipped, Roid Rage
E: Present Ghosts > Indian Grits
Check out the full gallery of photos, courtesy of Mike Solomon, below:
