The Nth Power - Abundance (2015)

The Nth Power boasts many New Orleans connections, particularly for a band that is not based in the Crescent City (though it was born here). The members of the collective initially came together at a gig at the Maple Leaf during Jazz Fest 2012. The band, which got its moniker from the first letter of the original members’ names—Nikki Glaspie (drummer/vocalist), Nick Cassarino (guitarist/vocalist), Nate Edgar (bassist) and Nigel Hall (keyboardist/vocalist)—officially formed a year later. Ghanaian-American percussionist Weedie Braimah was later added. He and Hall, a recent New Orleans transplant who has since left the group, are both heard on Abundance, the Nth Power’s debut release.

Stylistically, the disc is as much of a hybrid as the band itself. It opens with a pared-down instrumental that hits in a funky mode. Next up is a soulful number, “Only Love,” that combines old school roots with modern sensibilities. Like much of the material here, it offers a spiritual and/or socially conscious message. All of the tunes come from the pens of the members, often working in collaboration.

Rather surprisingly, guitarist Cassarino’s original, “Walk on Water,” is quite folky, or what could be described as “singer/songwriter.” Bassist Edgar’s “Right Now” follows a similar stylistic pattern—poetry in musical motion.

Drummer Glaspie, recently of Dumpstaphunk and previously hitting behind Beyoncé, takes on lead vocal duties on “Soul Survivor,” which adds a rock element to the mix.

Throughout the album, vocal harmonies play an important part in the Nth Power’s sound. They are often used to create drama in a band that takes on varied musical roles supported by its talented cast of characters.