South Florida is unique in that no matter what time of the year the change of season is minimal. Come October we don’t see leaves turning to burnt umber or mounds of crisp leaves raked into collection. The only discernible difference occurs after Thanksgiving as the roads become congested and the people manning these vehicles reek of ineptitude (Yes person with the Quebec license plate I’m pointing the finger at you). Most snowbirds are of the unwanted variety but every once-in-a-while a different breed of transplant surfaces that bring more than the northern germs. This is the case with Jupiter One who formulated the brilliant plan of doing an extensive southern tour while temperatures sank into the twenties back home in NYC.
Jupiter One’s Mallards Unite! tour initiated in Hollywood, FL on January 4th before making twists and turns at various state schools and add on dates before we caught up with them for the January 13, 2009 show at Fat Cats in Ft. Lauderdale. Our show was heavily attended which was not the case as indicated by the entries and photos on the bands blog. Those mid-day shows may have done little to recruit for the JP1 fan base but as a former member of student government at FAU, I know those events are easy money. Having the foresight to base a tour based around gigs like that seems like pure genius to me. Proof that this band has intellect to match their music talents.
It is hard not to attribute the bands strenght to the charisma of lead singer/guitarist/keyboardist/violinist K Ishibashi. When he performs he lights up with intense expression in his face. The tone of his voice is electrifying. If I were a casual observer I would leave it at that but it is important to point out that with the exception of bassist Pat Dougherty that ever member of the band takes on various rolls while performing. Guitarist Zac Colwell sings, plays keyboard, and jumps behind the drums when drummer David Heilman takes to the keyboard and sings. Jupiter One truelly is greater than the sum of its parts.
It was notable that the four piece traveling band (well five if count their trusted tv side kick Gordon) was missing singer/keyboardist/violinist/t-shirt design artist and wife to K, Mocha.
