MP3s of MPE

Fans of multi-genre, musical hybrids, pay attention -- the MPE Band is headed this way. Never heard of ´em? Well, you just might want to write that name down because the music critics familiar with the MPE Band are likin’ what they hear. But even so, this Philadelphia-based trio is...

By John Letsch

April 6, 2006

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Fans of multi-genre, musical hybrids, pay attention -- the MPE Band is headed this way. Never heard of ´em? Well, you just might want to write that name down because the music critics familiar with the MPE Band are likin’ what they hear. But even so, this Philadelphia-based trio is probably too busy to notice – busy with a featured spot on A&E’s Random 1, criss-crossing the U.S. and Europe (including a two-week, 216-mile walking tour from Philly to D.C.). And, most important, sticking to its genre-defying songwriting.

So how does the band hear itself? “Chinese fire-drill instrumentation, lush harmonies, unshakable melodies, and seat-of-your-pants spontaneity,” they say, referring to their frequent instrument-sharing and musical virtuosity. MPE Band’s mix of folky, jazzy, sometimes rockin' sounds brings comparisons to anything from ABBA, Zappa, Fleetwood Mac, and (yes) the Pixies. But the band’s diversity and individuality can be described in one simple yet expansive word -- Americana.

The MPE Band performs at 7 p.m. Friday at South Shores Tavern (502 Lucerne Ave., Lake Worth). Admission is free for 21 and over. Call 561-547-7656, or visit www.southshorestavern.com.
Fri., April 7

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