The Stand
At First Glance:
The mic, in a sonic wail, gave out feedback. The band’s front man is not intimidated. He looks out at the patchy-filled seats and laughs. After about two songs, he makes an announcement, “Hello everybody. My name is Eric ‘Love’ Jones and
I … am a fool.” Contagious laughter trickles through the tent. Not even a verse later, One Nation is funking out a Cameo cover, “Word Up,” to a dancing Congo line gathering outside of the tent.
The Band:
One Nation, formed by member Tony Brown, is a funk-filled all male set consisting of a mid-range lead vocal, lead guitar, bass, percussion and drummer. Members of this band have played together one to four years.
Nick Mandarino – Lead Guitar
Eric “Love” Jones – Lead Vocalist
Tony Brown – Vocals / Percussion
Jamar Lacey – Drums
Gill “Gilt Man” Copes – Bass
Bernie Williford – Keyboard
The Sound:
“Funk. We can turn anything into funk. We have fun funking,” described vocalist/percussionist Tony Brown. Funk, the popular sound of local bands, is clearly the performance-driving fervor behind One Nation’s performances. Take away leads with Nick Mandarino and lively dialogue from vocalist Eric ”Love” Jones edge off a solid performance where any member can command a solo.
Take away songs of the night:
Spencer Davis “I’m a Man”
Cameo “Word Up”
Funkadelic “One Nation”
Contacts: Catch Them Through Tony Brown
Audience moments:
Lead Vocalist Eric “Love” and Lead Guitarist Nick Madarino’s dialogue and quick jabs