Weekly Special #176b: The Phenomenal Handclap Band

The Phenomenal Handclap Band is composed of eight musicians, but on their album the number of collaborations soars high with talents like Bart Davenport, Jon Spencer, Lady Tigra and Morgan Phalen. Each song off the self-titled album is as diverse as the collaborators, and like a Ween album, each song presents a new sound while maintaining danceable rhythms. It spans multiple genres, ranging from a disco feel with Carol C. to a bluesy Motown jingle featuring Tommy Brenneck. Then it takes another turn with the song ‘Testimony’ where the percussion reminds me of Nina Simone. Expect to hear '15 to 20' on repeat in every groovy dance club around town, a peppy go-go dancing number featuring Lady Tigra counting the rhythms of the beat. The entire album is funk driven, disco lovely, R&B fabulous and altogether surprising with each song. I spoke with musician and PHB producer, Daniel Coll&aacutes, to talk about the superband. - read Chloe Schildhause's interview with the band here.