The Brooklyn Bowl had a colorful vibe to it as it welcomed Papadosio for a two-night stand. Upon entry it was hard not to notice the art vendors hawking their work and the additional artists on the dance floor painting psychedelic images and oceanic inspired themes before and during performance. On stage there were five large square screens behind the instruments with half circles displayed on them that later would have cupcakes and images of live puppets in place of the circles. Without foreknowledge of who Papadosio is it could make one wonder what sounds accompany this level of inspiration?

Papadosio are very polished musicians whose live performance resembled a crisp studio recording. They encompass many different sounds that bear influences from just about, well everywhere. Attempts to describe them will fall short, but if Pink Floyd ever tried to create dance music this might be what it would sound like. They showcased great elements of prog rock which were accentuated by the incredible drumming of Mike Healy. At some point I just knew there was a Genesis or Rush cover coming, but I was left wanting. Nonetheless, they were able to take their musical hodgepodge and serve it up in a form that the audience could groove and dance to.

At times it felt like an extended version of the Grateful Dead’s concert jam “Space” with a little more organized improvisation. The instrumental effects by the various members are well utilized and accentuated, but it can be hard to distinguish where exactly it was coming from. However, keyboard player Sam Brouse was one primary figure that stood out. His ventures into classical territories helped to keep the music grounded.

Vocalist and guitarist Anthony Thogmartin wasn’t far behind as he steered the spaceship. Similar to Sam Brouse his playing had a familiar aspect to it. It was interesting to see how quickly he could take the audience from folk, blues, and pop to what they self-describe as “electronic mayhem”. Papadosio definitely loves the mayhem, and that mayhem is part of the fun and maybe the inspiration.

They were successful in creating an experience that those in attendance could dance to and enjoy themselves, but will you feel anything other than the beat coming through the dance floor? Maybe, but maybe not. From beginning to end the performance had wonderful musicianship that was both appreciated and all over the musical map, but lacked an emotional touch. Their pulling from so many traditions is a help for Papadosio as one would be hard pressed not to find something they could appreciate about them.