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When four key members of the 13 piece improv funk/jazz powerhouse band, Sol Kitchen, wanted to flex their skills with tight orchestration, witty lyricism and rich vocal harmonies, they called on one of their favorite local Dallas musicians and Congratulations was born. With musical influences as wide ranging as Frank Zappa, Bassnectar, Parliament Funkadelic, Yes, EOTO, Miles Davis, Phish, Squarepusher, and Igor Stravinsky; the words genre bending come to mind while trying to describe Congratulations' unique sound. Catchy song writing seamlessly interwoven into skilled improvisation has made them current favorites of the underground Texas music scene.At a typical Congratulations’ show, you might find the venue transformed at times into a sweat filled dance club saturated with pulsating electronic beats and rhythms delivered by percussionist Eric Rogers and drummer Alan Eckert. Or maybe engaged in a Broadway-ish sing-a-long led by Keyboardist Gaah(n), complete with tap dance solo. Brian Felker’s striking guitar leads and Mike Beall’s grumbling bass lines deliver funk filled counterpoint at rippling speeds or at a precise slow greasy grind.Since 2006, Congratulations' high energy live performances have enabled them to travel extensively while adding to an ever growing and diverse fan base. From bars to festivals and late night 'events', Congratulations proves it's ability to harness the energy of an audience and let it build. Last year saw the release of Congratulations' first full length studio album and thousands of miles traveled in touring support. Members of Congratulations have shared the stage with or have opened for such acts as: Widespread Panic, EOTO, Vic Wooten, Estradasphere, Topaz, Eric McFadden Trio, Drop Trio, and Sugar Free Allstars, just to name a few.
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