Flobots

The Flobots have more in common with Bop Skizzum than guitarist Andy Guerrero, trumpeter Joe Ferrone and bassist Jesse Walker, who are members of both groups. The collectives also put on acclaimed party-hearty concerts that don't always translate to discs. Nevertheless, Platypus, the Flobots' new EP, waddles in the right...

By Michael Roberts

November 17, 2005

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The Flobots have more in common with Bop Skizzum than guitarist Andy Guerrero, trumpeter Joe Ferrone and bassist Jesse Walker, who are members of both groups. The collectives also put on acclaimed party-hearty concerts that don't always translate to discs. Nevertheless, Platypus, the Flobots' new EP, waddles in the right direction, thanks to arrangements that push beyond mere funkiness.

The key in this respect is viola player Mackenzie "No Relation" Roberts, whose energetic playing provides unexpected heft and welcome drama to "Jetpack." She also boosts "The Moon," which affords plenty of room for vocalists Brer Rabbit and Jonny 5 to stretch their syllables.

Granted, lines such as "I just wanna say welcome to the part of the show/Where the bass drum hits hard and slow" (from "One Love") need a crowd to make them work. But other parts of Platypus sound as strong on the car stereo as they do from the stage.

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Michael Roberts began his career with Westword in 1990 as music editor. In 1999, he took on a new role, full-time media reporter, as author of a column called The Message. In 2008, he became the lead writer for Westword's news blog, The Latest Word, a position he held until January 2023. Michael continues to freelance for Westword, covering everything from business to sports and the media; he also contributes to Jazziz, a national music magazine. He holds a bachelor's degree from what is now Colorado Mesa University and master's degrees from the University of California, Los Angeles, and Northwestern University.

Contact: Michael Roberts

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