Sombarkin'

October 29, 2022 | 11:45 AM

The A cappella sound of Sombarkin’: Karen Somerville, Lester Barrett, Jr., and Jerome McKinney, a trio of vocalists whose sound is so well jelled it is amazing to discover just who is singing which part. The group uses the skill of vocal instrumentation and harmony to deliver an explosive performance of Negro spirituals, map (code) songs, folk, gospel, blues, and jazz. Their polyphonic technique is reminiscent of the ole time camp meetings, as well they deliver a contemporary soulful sound with surprising jazz licks and blues bends. Theirs is a transforming gospel crafted to impress the ear with the quality of an ensemble greater in number than the trio that stands before you.