The Motet, the Colorado-based funk and soul band with deep connections to the New Orleans funk and jam band scene, will return to New Orleans tonight for a show in the support of their latest release, Death or Devotion, at Tipitina’s.
Death or Devotion, which was released earlier this year, is the band’s eighth release and their first since 2016’s Totem.
Drummer Dave Watts formed the Motet in 1998. Though they have experienced some turnover of membership over the years, the band sticks to a musical vision that encompasses funk, soul, and R&B.
The last time I saw them in New Orleans was at a celebration for the seventh anniversary of NOLA Brewing back in March 2016. It was the band’s first time in New Orleans with the new members and they were positively on fire at an outdoor set. One of the highlights was two separate guest appearances by Meters’ guitarist Leo Nocentelli over the course of their long show.
The new album is one of The Motet’s strongest releases in some time. Divinsky brings a wide vocal range allowing the band to explore the new songs with tight musicianship including strong horn section parts, sterling guitar work, and deep funk bass.
But live is where this band truly lives. Their performances allow the musicians to step out while presenting a cohesive sound that keeps the dance floor moving. Leader and drummer Watts said, “When you’re listening to us, I want your mind to be taken away from wherever you are during the day and into some other place. It’s all about that.”
Show time is 9 PM. Casey Russell of Magic Beans opens.
