TOUBAB KREWE @ SOB’S: 1/9/8 @ 8PM.

Normally, Jam Bands make us cringe here at the SoHo Journal. The length of the songs, the bad dancing, the patchouli. No thanks. Therefore, jam bands comprised of young white dudes earnestly trying to play traditional African music should make us cringe really, reallyhard. Like, “Ow, the muscles in my neck are starting to hurt” hard.

Which is why Toubab Krewe is so surprising. They blend Afrobeat with rock, surf, and zydeco, leaving the listener with an experience that’s as fresh as it is familiar. A few members of the band actually lived in Africa for a while, studying with master musicians while immersing themselves in the culture. In other words, they take the music seriously; these are not college boys whose definition of multiculturalism stops at weed and Bob Marley’s greatest hits. Yet even more important than their sincerity is the fact that this band from Asheville, NC grooves hard and well, bringing a celebratory vibe to their shows. Kudos to S.O.B’s for proving that there is still a market for interesting live music downtown. You should go.

Toubab Krewe, w/ special guest Jar-E
1/8/9 @ 8pm
SOB’s
204 Varick Street (at West Houston)
$12 in advance, $15 day of show