The Heavy Pets

Call them a jam band or consider them eclectic, but the Heavy Pets' propulsive blend of rock, reggae, blues, and grooves is perfectly attuned to South Florida's diverse musical mix. Not only are they Langerado regulars for good reason, but these New York transplants are also a popular draw on the local circuit. They've achieved this by melding sprightly melodies with instrumental dexterity. That diverse template is evident on Whale, their sprawling two-disc debut, but it's their live performance that finds the Pets in their prime. As of late, they've had local jazz giant (ithe making) Julius Pastorius sitting in with them on drums, making their sound a jazz-jam treat. For those who recognize the surname, yes, that's local jazz giant (in memoriam) Jaco Pastorius' kid. And while that was an interesting mix sonically, the band is ready to unveil their new (and hopefully permanent) drummer this weekend. The Pastorius clan will be in the building playing an opening set, so ladies, don't be heartbroken if you were getting used to seeing Julius on the drums and now feel abandoned. Still, with both the Bendys and the Heavy Pets on one bill, if you dig catching good music live, this Friday night the Culture Room sounds like the place to be.