Flubdub - Season One

Flubdub

Season One
​self-released; 2020

3.7 out of 5

By Matt Jensen

Flubdub is a Pittsburgh-based band formed in the late summer of 2019. The band consists of Zack Leya (guitar), Jake Leya (keys), Mark Kowalczyk (drums) and Ben McConahy (bass). They mention their release Season One is “a collection of five instrumental songs that are meant to be enjoyed whether you're listening, dancing, partying or whatever else you might do. Our songs are inspired by bands like Dopapod, Umphrey's McGee, and Pigeons Playing Ping Pong among others.”

It was about twenty years ago now that I was attending college in Champaign, IL and almost every weekend my friends and I would go to The Canopy Club to check out music. Oh those were the days. I have no idea what’s going with that venue these days but this band would have been right at home at that venue. 

These five songs are jam band worthy and the kind to me that sound best live with a beer in your hand on a Friday night. Suffice it to say since most venues are not open these days feel free to turn this one up loud in your own home.

They get going with “Monkey Brain” and there is an overt funk vibe. It’s easy on the ears and revolves around guitar, warm organ, a funky walking bass line and a driving beat. The song is dynamic and they go back and forth with intensity but for the most part the vibe is similar the whole time. The bongo breakdown section was on point.

They change things up on “Juice.” It’s a lot less funky and the piano plays a role in the song. There are more jazz elements and the band showcases a good amount of technical skill. “Flubbin'” is another testament to their technique and the jam band qualities were really shining here.

The highlight was “The Labyrinth and the Minotaur.” They get more epic and grand with this song and with elements of post-rock and a side of Pink Floyd. Last up is “Morning Golden Hour” in which there are meditative moments and also some great builds.

​The songs felt cohesive and they did feel like a set of songs for almost any occasion. I think the band accomplished what they set out to do.

Apple Music

---

bandcamp

Tweet