The Donkeys
(Photo courtesy of flickr, user snackfight)

Upon introduction, The Donkeys may sound like a peculiar name.
But with such an eccentric sound - it's quite fitting.

To produce their unique brand, the self-proclaimed
psychedelic rock band uses a wide variety of instruments.

In addition to the standard lead, bass, keyboard and drums
setup, the San Diegans utilize instruments from other cultures, including two
relatives of the guitar: the sitar and banjo.

The sitar has its roots in India where it has been widely
used for Hindustani classical music since the middle ages.

Its stringed cousin, the banjo, was created by slaves in
colonial America and adapted from many instruments with African origins.

Last Wednesday, The Donkeys brought their name and instruments
to the Echo in Echo Park and grooved the crowd with a 40-minute set.

Heads were moving as the band kicked off the
show with "Nice Train," a mellow staple from their second album, "Living on the
Other Side."

But it wasn't just any rendition; it was an
extended version featuring a mini solo from all of members of the band.

They transitioned nicely into another
extended jam featuring the bass guitarist on the banjo and minimal lyrics.

This instrumental lover's paradise was
highlighted by a few lengthy, lead guitar solos and the distinct sound of the
banjo.

The song, which is still untitled, is
expected to be on the band's new album they hope to release in approximately
six months.

After indulging the crowd in a bit more of the
new material, it was back to the classics.

Next up was "Pretty Thing," which featured
a shift back to the land of mellow. With soft-spoken lyrics and a melodic tone,
this song is a great representation of their easy listening style.

More classics followed including, "Be My
Girl," one of two songs from their rare 7-inch vinyl.

But they saved the best for last as the
show came to a spectacular conclusion with a fan favorite, "No Need for Oxygen,"
complete with an extended upbeat jam session that ended with a melodic repeat
of the chorus and some funky sounds.

Overall, the show was great. The Donkeys
provided just what the fans wanted: a great mix of the new with the old.

They started with something familiar,
transitioned into a look at what the new album sounds like with a 3-song sneak
peak and finished it off with an all-time favorite from their debut album.

There was only one drawback; that the show
didn't last twice as long.

It wasn't the first time I have seen The
Donkeys, and it certainly won't be the last.