Late nighter set to groove

Wilder Main throws open its doors this Friday for an evening of entertainment, Oberlin-style, celebrating the second annual Late Nighter.

The fun will begin with an activities fair from 7 to 9 p.m. Students will be able to wander the floors of Wilder and learn what different student organizations have to offer. At 9 p.m. the real fun starts, as there will be more lighthearted attractions such as Feve food and a henna tattoo artist.

Graduating Seniors might want to stop by the Tarot card reader to get a glimpse of their post-Oberlin future. And for those who are cutting loose now that they're finally away from home, the staff from Chronic Body Art will be poised to alter your body in a number of stylish ways like permanent tattoos and various piercings.

Professor of Theater Roger Copeland, whose courses this semester include such serious topics as "Concepts of the Avant-Garde," is opting for a surprising change of pace. Copeland will present an evening of magic-avant-garde magic perhaps?

And if all this wasn't enough, wander downstairs to the 'Sco at 10 p.m. for the sonic beats of Groove Collective.

Groove Collective came together in 1990 under the auspices of the nomadic club Giant Step. Originally, flutist Richard Worth collaborated with DJ Smash and MC/timbale expert Nappy G. Then gaining the attention of other Giant Step regulars, they attracted drummer Genji Siraisi, keyboardist Itaal Shur and bassist Jonathan Maron. Later, vibesman Bill Ware (of Steely Dan), saxophonist Jay Rodriquez, trombonist Josh Roseman, trumpet player Fabio Morgera and percussionist Chris Theberge fused to round out the Collective.

The band's self-titled first album was recorded one night at a Giant Step show. That effort resulted in extensive touring around the States as well as Europe, during which the band shared stages with prominent musicians such as B.B. King, Maceo Parker, The Roots and Pharcyde.

Their second full-length album, We the People, takes you on a musical journey through the crowded streets of New York City. Their latest album, Dance of the Drunken Master, also embodies Groove Collective's celebration of musical diversity.

"A groove has to be made around the pulse," said flutist Worth, "All beats exist and are there for the taking... Often people separate harmony and melody from rhythm, but when things are going right they come back together again, because groove unites them."

Their blend of jazz, funk and hip-hop has gained a substantial New York cult following. Each show is a new experience, and Groove Collective sends their sold-out crowds reeling with their tight improv. So put out your cigarettes, leave your pretensions at the door and prepare to get down to the organically-inspired soundscapes from the concrete jungle. You can do a little dancing, get glimpse of the future - maybe get a tattoo - and check out all that Wilder has to offer.

Wilder Late Night will be held Friday from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. The Groove Collective will perform at 10 p.m. in the 'Sco. Admission is free.