The Hip Abduction performed their headline show at the Milwaukee Vivarium for the first time. The May concert was a sold-out show with fans dancing, singing and screaming to their chill, groovy vibe.
The seven-piece band is a vibrant St. Petersburg, Florida-based collective, formed over a mutual appreciation for West African and early Jamaican reggae/club music. The band mixes African traditions, rock, and reggae vibes to create their own unique sound. To best describe the band’s sound, it is perfect for a romantic beach getaway. Visuals of the ocean, rainforests and sunsets embraced the wild, human experience of the band’s inspiration.
With visuals for the soul and blinding lights, the artists performed saxophone, violin and guitar instrumentals that were mystical and soothing to the ear. I danced to every song and heard fanc cheer. “They’re so good!”
Towards the end of the concert, The Hip Abduction engaged with the crowd and said, “We’re coming back next April, BUT.. we’re gonna need a bigger room y’all.” As they continued playing, fans cheered so loud. My rating for this concert is 5 out of 5 stars. It was an amazing experience!
Members of the band – David New (guitar, vocals), Pat Klemawesch (kora, Nyatiti, guitar, Kamele ngoni, vocals), Chris Powers (bass), Paul Chlapowski (keys), Kevin Clark (trumpet), David Johnson (sax), Matt Poynter (drums), Pat Hernly (percussion) and Vinny Euliano (sound engineer, congas) – are continuously stirring up an absolutely original creation as reflected in their latest album ‘One Less Sound.’
