Everyone remembers their favorite teacher in school. You know, the one whose classroom style made every lesson sound like the secret to the universe and every activity feel like a party.
Thursday at the River Ranch such a class was definitely in session as the funk professor Maceo Parker and his eight-piece “tightest little funk orchestra on earth” delivered a blowout lecture in Funk 101 that left every student dancing on their desk and howling in the hallway.
From ‘Pass the Peas’ to ‘Tear the Roof Off’ and back, the now 65-year old funk founding father laced his signature sax sound into rousing medleys of the classic funk choruses that defined the genre. Though the tunes broke little ground into progressive funksmanship, the sound was so damn tight it didn’t matter. Like a taste of the funk constitution, Maceo’s selections were born funky, no need for alternative interpretation.
The red hot band that backed Maceo matched his every move, including the dapper suits, and made sure even their insatiable leader was shaking his money maker. The rhythm section was especially tight. They never missed a Maceo cue and laid a backbeat so bumpin’ it was a toss up whether soloist or dancer appreciated it more. Showcase solos from trombonist Greg Boyer and guitarist Bruno Speight complemented Maceo’s reedwork like cranberries and candied walnuts in a sweet funk salad. Tasty!
The sold-out crowd ate up every horn lick and snare crack as the sound at the River Ranch was once again fabulous. The dancefloor grooved and bounced from start to finish with just enough room to maneuver between the river and the ranch. It’s no surprise that Robbie and the Renegade Crew have made the Ranch their premiere venue this summer. The vibe is right, the sound is sick. and the party goes off without the drama of the regional park.
For those who missed Maceo… register for his classes earlier freshman! Cause there’s no doubt, when this teacher’s in Tahoe, funk fiends from elementary to graduate will be lining up for Maceo’s masterful lecture.
Renegade Productions upcoming shows you don’t want to miss:
Thursday, July 3-5 Salvador Santana Band (Carlos Santana’s son) drawing upon an array of musical styles, the Salvador Santana Band thrives on collaboration and innovation. Bursting with hip-hop, rock, funk, R&B and traditional Latin sounds; the sonic amalgam which gives life to SSB -the collective's official debut- sizzles with allure.) Tahoe Biltmore, Crystal Bay Show starts at 9:30 p.m., doors open at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance For ages 21 and over
Thursday, July 10 The New Mastersounds — Soul, Afro-funk, New Orleans-Funk and one blinding piece of soul-jazz. River Ranch Lodge, Tahoe City Show starts at 9 p.m., doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance For ages 21 and over
Wednesday, July 16 Great American Taxi — Americana without borders, shit-kicking pickin' River Ranch Lodge, Tahoe City Show starts at 9 p.m., doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance For ages 21 and over
Monday, July 21 Culture featuring Kenyatta Hill Tahoe Biltmore, Crystal Bay Show starts at 9:30 p.m., doors open at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 in advance For ages 21 and over
Wednesday, July 23 Del Castillo MontBleu Resort, Stateline, Nev. Show starts at 9 p.m., doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets are $18 in advance
Thursday, July 24 Zepparella — All girl Led Zeppelin Tribute Band River Ranch Lodge, Tahoe City Show starts at 9:30 p.m., doors open at 8:30 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance For ages 21 and over
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From ‘Pass the Peas’ to ‘Tear the Roof Off’ and back, the now 65-year old funk founding father laced his signature sax sound into rousing medleys of the classic funk choruses that defined the genre. Though the tunes broke little ground into progressive funksmanship, the sound was so damn tight it didn’t matter. Like a taste of the funk constitution, Maceo’s selections were born funky, no need for alternative interpretation.
The sold-out crowd ate up every horn lick and snare crack as the sound at the River Ranch was once again fabulous. The dancefloor grooved and bounced from start to finish with just enough room to maneuver between the river and the ranch. It’s no surprise that Robbie and the Renegade Crew have made the Ranch their premiere venue this summer. The vibe is right, the sound is sick. and the party goes off without the drama of the regional park.