Mercury

The sun has not yet set on the popularity of jam bands, as the Dave Matthews Band and Phish both scored coveted early-fall slots at Sandstone, which means their enthusiastic dancing fans won’t be in as much danger of suffering from heat exhaustion. On Mercury’s (thankfully, this KC-based quintet changed its name from Soul Shoes) debut release, singer-guitarist Philip Lehr showcases his remarkable vocal resemblance to the previously inimitable Matthews, right down to the high-pitched squeals and occasional bizarre inflections. On the upbeat, jazzy opening tune, “Merry Go Round,” free-floating horns spice up the verses while clicking drums provide the backbone for a catchy chorus. “Spin Me” starts with low-key acoustic guitar and then kicks into all-out jam mode near the end of its seven-minute duration. Unlike the unfailingly friendly Matthews, Lehr has a dark side, as evidenced when he directs the bluegrass-flavored “Tumbleweed” to a “fucking bitch,” or when he refers to kicking ass in a gruff voice on “To Eden.” However, provided such blowups don’t bum out this possible future Omega-Music-Fest attraction’s pacifism-loving crowds, this album suggests that Mercury will rise this summer to take its place alongside its club-packing peers.