Ultraviolet Hippopotamus Review – 4/29/2011 @ the Funky Buddha

Square Peg, Round Hole

If memory serves me right, ultraviolet light is actually found in sunlight as well as being the catalyst behind making objects glow in the dark. That seemed to fit the theme of my weekend. The concept of invisible wavelengths traveling all the way through space simply to give me a three day sun burn is flattering on one hand but also does its best job of slowing me down. No rest for the weary and my mood brightens as I see the neon blue sign above the edifice of the Funky Buddha Lounge & Brewery in Boca Raton, FL. Approaching the building with camera and a half finished Purple Haze in hand, I remember thinking that the music might have to carry me tonight. At this venue, the lack of patrons sitting around outside is typically a sign that the band inside is bringing it. This was the case tonight.

Words by Adam E. Smith

The door opened and a rocking wall of sound above the normal decibel level came pouring out. That was my cue to get inside immediately. Ultraviolet Hippopotamus were bringing a fierce composed section to a pulsing audience that was illuminated by the band’s impressive lighting rig, complete with five moving heads. The stage was filled front to back and side to side with instruments, pedals, synthesizers and drums. My spirits rose as I quickly paid my respects to the BLP krewe and fell right into the groove. UV Hippo was staying true to their mammalian counterpart as they launched an onslaught of slow moving melodies that transported into ripping attacks on the seemingly human crowd. They were floating above us as they peaked, and these boys from the Mid-west were marking their territory on the Bamboo Stage.

At set break, I shared a few beverages and words with the Michigan-based band members. We traded stories about their tour so far, and I joked about their van being ironically similar to what the retirement homes in South Florida use. They commented that it was refreshing to play to a new crowd that seemed to really dig what they were doing. Before heading inside for set two, I thanked them for making the long trek down and asked if they could bring the heat in the second set.

By now the Buddha had managed to furnish an even larger crowd as people traveled across town from the Aquaphonics show. Word must have gotten out that this was the place to be. Right out of the gate, my request was met and the next 90 minutes was a rug cutter’s cavorting dream come true. Hints of intricate note exchange similar to Illinois’ jam reverends Umphrey’s McGee resonated well between building improvisational jams. Electronic breaks and screaming guitar solos kept the buzz so high that closing time snuck up on everyone. It is odd that a band pushes toward the 2am curfew, but it seemed that the crowd wanted even more. I was riding a semi-natural high in the front parking lot and watched it transform into a make shift dance party. The people were happy. The band was happy. I was happy. That is what it is all about.

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