by SCOTT C

Although Kobayashi's new album Strange Lights and Resolutions has been available for about two months now, the local jazz-funk outfit will be seeing wider release of the LP as of June 9, thanks to a new deal inked with Vancouver-based Bongo Beat Records. "I think we're one of the first bands on the label that are outside of the folky and indie-rock direction they usually go in," explains saxophonist Josh Geary. "But this will be the official launch for the album."

Bongo Beat, run by the talented Ralph Alphonso, celebrates 10 years in the business next week with a stacked bill at Toronto's snazzy Drake Hotel, part of the upcoming NXNE showcases. Kobayashi will be there with their moody mix of hip hop, funk, soul and jazz, along with the eclectic sounds of their roster-mates. The Montreal-based outfit, featuring two saxophones, bass, keyboard, drums, turntables and vocals, continue to hone their live show despite some recent changes to the lineup of the band. With the loss of MC Omari Newton and the departure of vocalist Hadiya Roderique for U of T law school just last week, the band has made room for new blood.

"The loss of those two has definitely made for some real rethinking in terms of the band dynamic, but I think we've managed to stay true to the sound that we've been developing over the last few years. I've known our new singer Eleni Gogas since back when I was still playing ska, and she fits in beautifully."

Here at home, the band takes the stage at O Patro Vys on Thursday, alongside their Toronto partners in crime LAL, for the proper release of their new record. Kobayashi also recently scored a place on the bill opening for Digable Planets, who'll be bringing the rebirth of cool to Montreal on Tuesday. "Yeah, that's really exciting too," beams Geary, "considering I just sent our CD to the guy booking the show. I was really surprised that he asked us to take part, but we wouldn't miss it."

With Digable Planets, K'naan and DJ Alex Robins at la Tulipe on Tuesday, June 7, 9 p.m., $27.50, all ages. CD launch with LAL at O Patro Vys on Thursday, June 9, 9 p.m., $12

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