Lake Street Dive
Mr. Small’s Theatre
March 29, 2014
Photos and review by Randy Jarosz
Lake Street Dive brought their jazz and soul sound to Mr. Smalls Theatre Saturday night, touring in support of their latest album, “Bad Self Portraits.” They have continued to find success selling out mid-sized venues all over the country, after their viral video featuring the quartet on a Massachusettes street corner performing the Jackson 5 song “I Want You Back.”
Rachael Price took the stage with hands at her hips. Sort of a trademark for the tall songstress. Along with stand up bassist Bridget Kearney showing off her impressive playing skills, Mike “McDuck” Owens performed double duty on guitar and trumpet while Mike Calbrese pitched in on vocals and drums. Calbrese positioned on the right front side of the stage was able to show off his drumming chops, not getting buried in the back like most percussionists.
Price confidently commanded the stage with her large soulful voice, swinging her arms back and forth and occasionally flicking her long red hair from her eyes. It was evident she had the attention of the male fans in the audience, as one shouted “I love you,” during a short pause between song verses. Later in the evening another excited fan shouted out his number. “Was that your phone number,” asked Price. “That’s a first, I like that,” she continued.
The 19 song set showcased 8 tracks from their new album, including “Stop Your Crying,” as the opener and “Bad Self Portraits,” immediately following. The group also used their time wisely by introducing new fans to old tunes like “Hello? Goodbye!,” “Henriette,” and the “Neighbor Song,” from their 2010 self titled album and “Clear a Space,” from their 2012 ep “Fun Machine.” Closing out the evening that saw a mix of young and old fans was a version of Paul McCartney’s “Let Me Roll It,” arranged perfectly to fit the bands style. The song also featured Price on guitar for the only time that night.
Still enamored with their own breakout success, Lake Street Dive has taken it all in stride. They even called the show at Mr. Small’s one of the largest crowds they have played in front of. This is a band that should get used to the throngs of fans as they will only grow in popularity.
