examiner Philadelphia live review

Wednesday, 16th December 2009

The Chapel at the First Unitarian Church in Philadelphia seems to be an unlikely place for a rock concert but in actuality this may have been a perfect setting for The Duke and the King to perform. The band which consists of Simone Felice, Bobbie "Bird" Burke, Simi Stone and Nowell "The Deacon" Haskins have an unique sound that is a combination of soul, folk and a dash of gospel. The group seems more like siblings then a band of musicians and you cannot help but feel like a part of their extended family. Although Simone Felice is the patriarch of The Duke and the King, the group rotates the limelight while each member supports one another and the music by creating an original and moving performance. The show included a beautiful medley of Neil Young’s "Helpless," The Felice Brother's " All When We Were Young," and "Amazing Grace." I would call that a religious experience in the form of music.