Frequent patrons of Philadelphia’s live music scene are by now familiar with local funk supergroup Nik Greeley & The Operators. Led by frontman Nik Greeley and featuring a who’s who of Philly-area talent, including members of Out of the Beardspace, Muscle Tough, Lauryn Hill, Gnarbot, and Funk n’ Bowl All-Stars, the band has earned a hard-partying reputation with years of high-energy live shows and blowout community celebrations. Now, they have attempted to capture the essence of their Philly-famous live presence for all the world to hear with Nik Greeley & The Operators – LIVE!, the band’s first official album.
“I’ve always been a big fan of live albums & recordings since I started to listen to music. And I wanted to capture the band at its best, to showcase the energy, musicianship, and chemistry we share together as a crew,” Greeley said. “We’ve been very fortunate to play some really great shows & stages together over the years, and it means even more to do it with my best pals, who I also consider some of the best musicians in the world.”
Combining high-octane, heady funk-rock, soul, and psychedelia with impressive musicality and a fun-loving spirit, the 11-track collection transports listeners to Philadelphia’s Ardmore Music Hall, where it was recorded on Nik Greeley’s birthday, as well as the band’s set at Beardfest 2021.
“Both places mean a lot to me from both working & performing at both spots,” Greeley said, “and I think we were able to capture the energy & musicianship of the band in a great way.”
The album features an eclectic mix of original tunes and covers, including songs by Lettuce, James Brown, P-Funk, King Crimson, and the album’s grand finale, Edgar Winter Group’s “Frankenstein”.
With the raw electricity of James Brown’s Live At the Apollo and the precise musicianship of Tower of Power, Nik Greeley & The Operators – LIVE! is a strong first statement from an already seasoned live music vet. That statement: “It’s time to bust a move.”
Nik Greeley & The Operators – LIVE! is now available on all streaming platforms. Listen to the album via Spotify in the player below.
In addition to releasing their debut live album, Nik Greeley & The Operators have a forthcoming studio EP due out next spring as well as soon-to-be-announced tour dates. “We’ve got fun shows to look forward to, and it just feels good to be putting out more new music again,” said Greeley. “I’m really proud of this album, and I hope other music lovers & appreciators of live music will enjoy.”
Nik Greeley & The Operators – LIVE!