Southside Records’ The Ant Taylor Band played their first of potentially many performances at Gregory’s Soul Food in Lansing, MI on November 29, 2019.
THIS was on hand for a night of delicious entrees, drinks, and outstanding performances that blessed the minds, hearts, and bodies of everyone in attendance. It was honestly incredible.
The band – consisting of the infectiously energetic Ant providing keys and vocals, Roger Jones on piano, Tyler Jenson on bass, Deon Gladney on drums, and singers Bianca Taylor, Latisha Clayton, and Shamar Flowers providing lush background layers – was in full groove when we arrived. As we maneuvered our way closer to the act, we heard several remarks along the way about how amazing they sound.
Their set list was an eclectic mix of styles and tempos that was so enjoyed, the band regularly received rounds of applause in mid-performance. Ant and company excellently covered everything from James Brown’s “Papa Don’t Take No Mess” to Donell Jones’ “U Know What’s Up”.
Though Ant’s name defines the band, he did not hog the spotlight. Latisha took the lead for a crowd-pleasing rendition of Jill Scott’s “Long Walk”. Bianca, joined by the smooth-grooving Jon Hermann on bass, performed a cover of Ella Fitzgerald’s “Summertime” that gave everyone chills.
In addition to Hermann, a few other guests joined The Ant Taylor Band. Multi-talented performer Steve Roberson sang Gregory Porter’s “Painting on Canvases”, acclaimed singer Alfred Singleton belted The Truth Band’s “I Love You”, and iconic performer and legendary Michigan State University College of Music instructor Randy “Uncle G” Gilespi delighted with an impromptu drum solo.
Throughout the band’s set people were impressed and enthused, dancing both on their feet and in their seats. A group of gentlemen played maybe the longest match of pool ever because they kept interrupting their own contest to dance.
We learned post-show The Ant Taylor Band will, going forward, return to Gregory’s every fourth Saturday of the month. THIS will surely be there, and we highly recommend you be there too! |THIS
[By Mr. Joe Walker | Follow THIS on Twitter @THISENT1]
