An ensemble performance is like a tapestry woven from diverse threads. Each strand tells a unique story that embodies greater meaning to the overall piece, creating a stunning narrative of unity and creativity. This same concept was performed at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn where Cory Wong put on an unparalleled display of musical collaboration featuring multiple artists from diverse disciplines, creating a showcase of jazz-funk fusion and comedic relief. Born in Poughkeepsie, New York, raised in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Wong got his start in jazz clubs and eventually toured with different artists like Ben Rector, Vulfpeck, and the Fearless Flyers. Now, touring on his own with support from Mark Lettieri (originally from Snarky Puppy) and special guests Couch, there was no shortage of talent in the building as the Minneapolis Master wove melodies, harmonies, and rhythms to create a rich sonic fabric.

To kick things off, Boston-based band Couch brought a refreshing twist of pop, soul, and theatrical tunes with a full band, horn section, and singer (Tema Siegel). With backgrounds in jazz and musical theater, the performers were not only musically expressive, but also had an electrifyingly charismatic stage presence that captivated the audience. Their bubbly showmanship had us groovin' to upbeat songs like "Still Feeling You" and "Saturday," almost making us feel like we were watching scenes of a live theater show. During their song “Poems,” Couch turned the entire crowd into a Broadway musical, allowing us to harmonize with the music by breaking the crowd into three sections of a choir. The septet kept us on our toes with covers like “Sorry” by Justin Bieber and even a funky version “Conjunction Junction” by Schoolhouse Rock which brought us right back to middle school English class. By the end of the set, the entire crowd was on their feet and ready for Cory to bring the funk.

The curtains rose as an all out funk assault commenced with Cory Wong (guitar), Mark Lettieri (guitar), and the full band including keys, bass, drums, percussion, and five-person horn section bringing the absolute heat to start the show. The set was a culmination of different tracks from multiple bands that Cory is a member of, as well as originals and covers which all created his own incredible tapestry of music. The band started off with a Fearless Flyers classic, “Flyers Direct” – a perfect opener. The set continued with an original track from Cory, “Flamingo,” and Mark, “Tidal Tail,” respectively, both evoking emotions of uplifting story line jazz funk that made us feel like we were a part of a great American epic. Tema Siegel from Couch joined for the next few tracks, “Look at Me” and “Ain't It Fun” by Paramore.

The funk never stopped as Cory brought out singer Jacob Jefferies to join on “How Much Do You Love Me?” by Vulfmon, a more contemplative track that brought a soulful break to the set. Cory ended the set with his original “The Generation Grid,” an absolute groove rendezvous that had the entire crowd clapping along and included a raging boom bap drum solo. In most instances, you might imagine an artist would come back on stage for an encore after they end their set, however, Cory had other plans. The entire ensemble came back onstage for what was claimed to be a Q&A press conference for the audience to ask questions to the band. Questions like “I know that your guitar patterns feel sexually charged at times and I want to know if you’re aware of that or if there’s something you’re doing to make that noise?” had us cackling as Cory responded, “When I play my guitar I think of it as an auditory Rorschach test and I think whatever you are interpreting is maybe something you could release into your own life,” and Mark chimed in saying “Look man, were both married men and we’ve been on a bus away from our wives for a long time… next question.”

The Q&A continued as one fan asked: “Cory, is there any particular song from your previous bands or subsequent acts that you would want to arrange for this ensemble?” This parlayed perfectly into Cory asking the crowd if they would be ok with the band playing “Dean Town” and bringing out Vulfpeck member Joe Dart. The crowd went absolutely nuts as the band ended the show with yet another monster composition that had us grooving along to the beat. Check out Cory Wong as he continues his North American Tour this year and then heads out for his Euro tour in 2025!

Connect with Cory Wong on Instagram, Spotify, TikTok and his website.