The Lower Eastside Connection // The Lower Eastside Connection

The Lower Eastside Connection

The Lower Eastside Connection

Self-released

4 Stars

Alas! The previous iteration of the Lower Eastside Connection that you once knew is no more; regardless, the solid repertoire of catchy, energetic, funky tracks on this disc – including the accidentally appropriate, anthemic paean to the now-demolished Heman Janes mansion that seemed to be everywhere this past summer, "Oubliette" – are strong enough to survive the departure of keyboardist/singer Pat Troester, because the core of Erie's reigning "hippie-hop" kings (vocalist Jonny Evans, drummer Chris Head, guitarist/vocalist Dan Head, and bassist Pat Roche) remains intact. While the loss of such a key member may have crippled lesser bands, the LEC will more than make due with the addition of Justin Tapper on guitar and sometimes-electronica artist Adam "onewayness" Holquist on keys, which could lend some interesting (and much-needed) new angles to the old favorites on this album. So mourn ye not for the LEC – the king is dead; long live the king!