I've noticed that even with the low-dough cover charge -- free -- those that crowd the free stages are sometimes more demanding than those who have shelled out a few clams in order to catch a live show by the toe. You play the Jazz Street (Gibbs the other 51 weeks), you'd better grab their attention rapidamente or their just gonna go back to jawin' with their neighbors. You hit 'em with something that requires a slide rule to understand or enjoy and you'll soon find yourself playing to the backs of a lot of heads.

Perhaps my warning set them straight, as Neo Collage mounted the stage with its odd arsenal -- electric marimba, electric harp, violin, viola, and longhorn bass. I told these fickle fans of free that this band was here to prove that classical music ain't just for the eggheads anymore. The band jumped in funky and sweet with a sound like no other; different, but not weird for the sake of being difficult or different. All in all a very cool set from a very cool, unique outfit Rochester can call its own. Neo Collage played to faces -- happy faces for the whole set.