Photo by Scott Harris

New York’s Brooklyn Bowl began filling up early July 22nd as hundreds turned out for the evening’s opening act, Teddy Midnight, who brought a solid balance of gleefully danceable and imaginatively adventurous tracks leaving the crowd elated and ready to explore the night’s distinctly progressive bill. Next came the self-described “Seven Headed Monster” known as Thank You Scientist who escalated energy and suspense with their cathartic avant-garde performance, at points bordering on insanity, the perfect precursor for what would come.

From the first note, it was clear that New York City natives Consider the Source have been hard at work. Known for their virtuosity and wildly different acoustic and electric sets, are clearly at the height of their craft after much writing and recording for their upcoming double album as well as a slew of recent shows. Their unparalleled style, dubbed “Sci-Fi Middle Eastern Fusion” always carries its own magical unpredictability; this night was no different.

While a slight amount of jamming is forecast with Consider the Source’s electric sets, they unexpectedly began with a lengthy, mainly ambient improvisational introduction showcasing double-neck guitarist Gabriel Marin’s beautifully updated tone and extensive array of effect pedals – which he assures us includes no new additions. This led seamlessly into a high-energy execution of their initially jarring and diversely nuanced “You Go Squish Now,” which alternates meditative Middle Eastern melodies and heavy, head-banging passages.

Drummer Jeff Mann’s solo preceding crowd favorite “Abdiel” was one of many highlights. His powerful yet subtle approach and unique broken cymbal stacks provide a surprisingly different and creative sound. The show peaked at an incredibly precise delivery of “Tihai for the Straight Guy.”

On recording, the first portion of “Tihai” is fast paced, methodical and dense. It quickly gives way to a slower, guitar-laden and more “Sci-Fi” middle passage until bringing award-winning bassist John Ferrara’s slap skills back into the mix for a fantastically balanced synthesis combining the extremity of the introduction, cosmic vibe of the middle passage, and power funk to create one monumental denouement. Live, Source accentuated each dimension of the track perfectly. There were brief, suspenseful rests between earlier passages where none exist on the record, and elongated rests where they do occur between later passages. Their live rendition of “Tihai’s” massive resolution dumbfounded some while most were blissfully entranced.

An impressive guitar interlude followed by everyone’s favorite CTS classic, “Keep Your Pimp Hand Strong” rounded out the set before a vivacious “ ‘Ol Chomper” encore featuring guitarist Tom Monda of Thank You Scientist.