Happy New Year. TIO took a small sabbatical to enjoy the holidays with family but we are back, loaded and locked for 2020. I have been sitting on this episode for longer that I hoped. There is nothing I enjoy more than going to see a band that delivers way beyond expectations. Not that I had preconceived ideas or expectations, I had only heard of the Conglomerate prior to attending their record release party at the Blue Bamboo. However, after two incredible sets of their blend of Jazz Fusion, Funk, R&B and even a bit of rock I knew I had to have them on the show.

This band loves to play and I guarantee you will feel it. The energy and vibe is one of joy. It’s obvious that these gentlemen love what they do. It’s difficult to define their sound in one category, Jazz Fusion would come closest however they bring the funk so get ready to shake your butt. 3 keyboards lead the way ranging from synths to a blistering hammond B3. Excellent guitar work and a solid rhythm section hold it all together.

Their CD “Merger” is available now through their Facebook page, Website, or any of their upcoming live appearances. They will be appearing again this year at the St. Pete Jazz Fest and once more at Winter Parks Blue Bamboo on Feb 4th. We will be on hand Feb 4th and the Blue Bamboo and would love to have an onslaught of listeners show their support.

The Conglomerate is;

James Adkins - Drums / Daniel Kelley Howard - Electric Guitar / Keith Phelps - Keyboards / Ed Anderson - Keyboards / Daven-Roy Llewellyn - Bass / Keith A. Phelps - Keyboards

Here’s the blurb from their web site for a little more insight -

The Orlando based jazz-funk-R&B fusion ensemble formed out of a deep desire to engender a vibe that is scarcely found in the area. The group originated the Conglomerate Performance Series, a recurring concert series that served as the debut for the collective, and drew a definitive line in the metaphoric sand separating them from the pack. The Conglomerate comprises musicians and producers who have created and contributed to works by LaRue Howard, Hananeel, Jazmin Ghent; performed with Tye Tribbett, Haley Reinhart (American Idol), The American Gospel Choir, Sisaundra Lewis (The Voice) and Disney ensembles. The band moves as a cohesive unit of old souls performing original music or standards with vivid passion and pure organic leanings that harken back to a time past.

Enjoy the episode. I hope to see you Feb 4th at the Blue Bamboo in Winter Park. In the meantime my thanks as always to Carlos for all of his hard work and time in helping to make these shows a reality. Check out his work on his web site below.