Band Members
Jowed Hadeed – Vocals
Justin MacDonald – Guitar
Ryan Jander – Guitar
Brian Paxton – Drums
Seth Humphrey – Bass
Photo by Jamaal Jackson
As further evidence that you just can’t please everybody, the recent January 22 performance by Eclectic Approach (which is a terrible name, for the record) at The Showbox music venue located in downtown Seattle’s Pike Place Market failed to make any kind of impression on this particular author. Rather than ask questions with obvious answers (i.e. Why is this music so popular? Answer: because, for some reason, people like it.) and point out the banalities enmeshed within the lyrics (“Boobies make the world go ’round/Titties make the world go ’round…”), it would seem prudent to simply place the focus of this article on the more positive aspects of the show, of which there were many. Deep breath. Here goes.
To begin with, the level of energy bouncing back and forth between Eclectic Approach and those in the audience was definitely impressive; people were having fun, dancing, singing along (which is saying a lot compared to more left-of-center shows where there seems to be no shortage of uber-hip attendees standing around with crossed arms). Taking into consideration that Eclectic Approach was the opening act for the evening’s events, the floor space was by no means packed but still had an impressive turnout. Each band member, dressed a little fancier than you’d see at your average show, certainly seemed to revel in the almost overwhelming feeling of goodwill which seemed to electrify the air; dancing, twirling, playing and singing their hearts out. It was certainly lead singer Jowed Hadeed’s night to shine after recently recovering from a severe bout with what was believed to have been the H1N1 virus (read more here). Hadeed, as well as plenty of his friends and family, must be indescribably excited about his return to the stage after such a traumatizing ordeal.
The music of Eclectic Approach incorporates elements from various genres of music such as funk, rock, and rap, mixed together to create a pop-monstrosity which obviously cannot be stopped as it attempts to storm its way onto top-40 charts and into your lives via radio waves, television, mp3 players, etc. It just feels like it’s all been done, like everything is just being regurgitated and sprinkled with colorful sawdust. But hey, to each his own. Though there will always be many an individual who will remain hung up on the mysteries as to why polished and sugary pop music has not yet rotted the teeth of the music industry; bands like Eclectic Approach will more than likely be laughing all the way to the bank as the world –propelled by mammaries– goes ’round.
Upcoming Shows
Jan 29 – UW Tacoma – Tacoma, WA
Feb 4 – The Crocodile – Seattle, WA
Feb 5 – The Reef – Boise, ID
Feb 6 – The College of Idaho – Caldwell, ID
Feb 11 – Amber – Seattle, WA
Band Members
Jowed Hadeed – Vocals
Justin MacDonald – Guitar
Ryan Jander – Guitar
Brian Paxton – Drums
Seth Humphrey – Bass
When arriving at Nectar, there were high expectations laid upon Eclectic Approach. Having listened to their tunes for a while and doing my research, I felt that I was up-to-date with the band. Boy, was I wrong. Eclectic Approach represents themselves on MySpace and YouTube as having six members in the band; a four-piece instrumental section and two vocalists. Live, there was only one vocalist. It was like going to see OutKast and Andre3000 not being there. Well, not quite, but you get my drift. If you represent your band a certain way in promotions and present a different package live, then you are setting the audience up for disappointment. Frankly, that’s how this show went.
Eclectic Approach has very relaxed stage presence. They all looked at home and felt like they were performing for family. The guitarists were amazing musicians; they TORE up their respective guitar solos. It had been awhile since I’d seen or heard some of licks that sounded so crisp and melodic during a solo; It was very impressive. The drummer played a solid tempo and seemed to be the glue of the band in general. The bassist was a bit bland and didn’t really stick out, but that appeared to be a good role for him in a group like this. Frankly, when every member of the band was showboating it got a bit overwhelming.
Jowed Hadeed showed great diversity with his singing and being able to rhythmically flow in a similar rap style as LFO. Although versatile, his vocal quality was pitchy at spots. Also, Jowed didn’t show that he had depth of range when they covered “Crazy” by Gnarls Barkley. Eclectic Approach’s music had a feel-good vibe that reminded me of the vocal style of Maroon 5 with a bit of rapping; musically they sounded similar to Sugar Ray.
Eclectic Approach puts on a decent stage show, but nothing mind blowing. They were musically sharp and seemed to enjoy themselves on stage. However, the set seemed relatively short at barely over 30 minutes. In addition to that, none their favored MySpace songs were even play. All and all, the evening turned out to be a bummer.
On a positive side note, Eclectic Approach played for free last and contributed in raising over $700 for the fight against Leukemia. Thanks Eclectic Approach!
Please enjoy their video captured June 24, 2009 at Nectar Lounge.
Eclectic Approach is a six piece band originally formed in Tri-Cities, Washington in 2003. They quickly gained a reputation around town for their innovative live performances; following that, they grew rapidly. Drawing from a wide variety of musical influences, their sound encompasses the soul of hip-hop, funk, reggae, soul , and a slight touch of rock & roll.
After looking over a few of Eclectic Approach’s live show videos, it is apparent that these guys are veterans of the stage. The cool, calm, and collected demeanor of the guitarists fit well with the demanding stage presence of the lead singers. They are very well put together and the structure of the songs are on-point. One can expect high energy with a laid back feel that won’t leave you emotionally drained. They also provide the space to have your mind off the stresses of the world. Personally, I am looking forward to tonight’s show. Come join me!
As if Eclectic Approach isn’t reason enough to come out to Nectar, all the proceeds (suggested $10 donation) from the show benefit the fight against Leukemia. Sounds like great music with an even better cause!
Upcoming Shows:
Jun 27 2009 9:00P @ ASCADA – Seattle, Washington
Jul 22 2009 8:00P @ The High Dive – Seattle, Washington
Jul 25 2009 8:00P @ Boat Race Weekend Bash - Kennewick, Washington
Aug 15 2009 5:00P @ Hot Import Nights – Pasco, Washington
Seattle Show Gal is in hot pursuit of undiscovered talent! How many great bands are out there that are slipping through the cracks? Seattle is saturated with so much music, it would be nearly impossible to sift through it all to find the good stuff. The Seattle Show Gal staff is not so proud to think that we can bring you all of it, but we are actively pursuing all different types of acts to give you a pulse on what is going on--right here in Seattle! (See more in "About")
