Ape 7 brings promise to League

Courtesy of Ape 7 Members of Ape 7 will perform Friday at the League Underground.

PREVIEW
	Ape 7 Friday at 8 p.m. Michigan League Underground Tickets are $3 at the Michigan League

Ape 7 isn't just another local band. Three out of four members of the group call the University their alma mater.

In addition to guitar, bass and drums, Ape 7 uses the violin and keyboards to add depth to its recorded material. In a recent interview, the band discussed its admirable work ethic and unique sound.

"We do all of our own promotion," said drummer Richard Landwehr.

The members of Ape 7 came together about two years ago. After a couple of line-up changes, the band released their debut EP, "Undressed," in May of 1997.

Displaying influences of various genres ranging from rock to classical jazz, Ape 7 has been compared to bands such as Toad the Wet Sprocket, Radiohead and the late, great Ann Arbor outfit Whirling Road. But aside from the diverse influences that waft through the album, Ape 7's writing style maintains its own sense of deep and inspiring complexity.

Currently the band has been playing a slew of live shows around the Ann Arbor area. It's most recent gig was opening up for Black Fuzz at the Blind Pig two weeks ago.

This Friday marks Ape 7's return to the Michigan League Underground following the band's first visit in mid-October. Before that show, vocalist Cliff Kaminsky was unsure of how large the turn out would be.

"I bet Rick that nobody would show up," Kaminsky said. But contrary to his prediction, Kaminsky lost money after watching an impressive-sized crowd give repeated nods of approval to the band and the music.

Based on that show's overwhelming success, the League asked Ape 7 back, which is no surprise when you consider the band's admirable philosophy on playing live.

"If a band can't play well live, they're not really worth a damn," guitarist/violinist Niel Shah said.

For those who aren't familiar with Ape 7's music, Shah also hinted at what to expect on Friday. "It should be an interesting show. For live shows, we take out the keyboards and the violin to get more energy."

Landwehr also said, "Despite the fact that we have a tight arrangement, you can expect some improvisation."

01-28-98