Austin Afrobeat collective, Hard Proof performed a live set for radio and internet listeners last night at KVRX radio at The University of Texas. The nine-piece band features members of The Calm Blue Sea, The Echocentrics, Ocote Soul Sounds and Black Joe Lewis and the Honeybears. The set was part of an ongoing series called Local Live produced each Sunday evening on 91.7 FM. The eclectic nature of the station programming is part of the appeal for listeners. Hard Proof's Afrobeat inspired sound was a departure for the normally punk and indie-rock guests the student-run station usually has in studio.
The musicians played a 40 minute set of originals including favorites, Buffalo and Lion of Mali (we're listening now). Hard Proof released their self-titled debut album last year to critical acclaim. The band was formed by drummer, Stephen Bidwell (The Calm Blue Sea) four years ago and the project blossomed into unique Austin musical act (hard to find) that has gotten positive reactions from fans everywhere the band has performed.
Recently, Hard Proof co-headlined with Ocote Soul Sounds at Club de Ville. They also played a set during Fun Fun Fun Fest with New York City Latin funksters, Budos Band. For most of the members of Hard Proof, the project is a side gig that turned into more than they expected.
The danceable, high energy music the group writes makes instant fans out of the uninitiated and attracts a loyal fan following. Audiences have a hard time staying in their seats when Hard Proof gets the funkiness meter moving. Music lovers can appreciate the subtle stylings of congas, percussion, drums, bass, guitar, keys and horns. The effect is one of attending a raucous, African-inspired orchestra.
Hard Proof plays their next show at Red 7 on January 5th with Hundred Visons and Zlam Dunk during FREE WEEK. Listen to a streaming recording of the entire show here or purchase the album.
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