ampel

For a trio, these guys make a huge sound. With a sound that comes from putting funk, R’n’B, pop and lounge in a blender, the band is all cool and no fool. The choruses are the highlight, all three members combining their voices to powerful effect. The best song of the set is perhaps the third, which starts with an insistent tapping beat from the drums and transitions into solos from each instrument. From a searing guitar solo to a thumping slapped bass solo to a snazzy drums solo, each member gets a chance to show off.

Most singing is done by the bassist Taro, with his smooth vocals assured and charming. The whole band oozes confidence, which includes the banter between guitarist Ikuya and Taro during a small break. They’ve had five years together as a band and it shows in their chemistry, as well as the tightness of their set. Their sound is soulful, seemingly simple but surprisingly complex with flashes of jazz. More than a few people head towards the voting tent after the set, which bodes well for their chances in the vote.