Enchanted Ape Swings into the Crosstown

Jammers and acoustic music lovers, if you haven’t caught Enchanted Ape before, you are in for a glorious treat this week. Playing a two-night gig at the Crosstown, they will be teasing the audience with samplings from their new album, Off the Ground, which is being pressed as I write this. There will be a CD release event at Cabooze in Minneapolis on May 17.

Enchanted Ape is known for its interesting instrument combinations, with roots, blues, and jazz. It is vocally and lyrically driven by front man Chris O’Brien (acoustic and slide guitar) from Milwaukee and supported by passionate players, most of them fellow Wisconsinites. Pat Riddle’s electric guitar noodling adds color, as does Brad Danielson’s hand percussion and Adam Kuchelmeister’s drums. Rob Bruce lays down the bass foundation and contributes vocally.  Riddle also sings. (Bruce is originally from California and Riddle is from Minneapolis. The whole band is now based in the Cities.)

These players are often supported by friends who happen to pop in at their gigs. Often Amanda Hawkinson adds lovely vocal harmonies. At the 10,000 Lakes Festival, two years ago, Matthew Probst brought his electric cello and brought down the house!

Even without this added excitement, Enchanted Ape offers a great show with slick guitar work, great vocals, and songs that you’ll be singing long after you stumble to your car. And the dance floor will be full as they tear into some of their upbeat tunes like the bluesy swing number, “Memphis, Trouble Free.”

So, come on down to the Crosstown. The cover is only $3 to see this great band. Come both nights. You won’t be sorry.

Enchanted Ape
Friday April 11 and Saturday April 12
Crosstown Lounge, GF, 10 pm.