When they take the stage, it’s apparent that The Ambitions have their style component down pat. Gracefully walking that line between clever and costume, their 60s inspired threads give a naturally polished look. After a few songs it’s clear that the word “polished” extends to their sound, as well.
It is impossible to listen to The Ambitions and stand still. This was the case at the band’s recent Black Cat show. An initially austere and stationary crowd was nodding at the first song and flailing by the third. Even the couple in the corner, determinedly twined together, were shaking their collective groove thing. The Ambitions’ energetic blend of rock and 60s soul certainly was the main force behind this sudden dance craze. Some credit must go to directly the group’s lead singer, Caz. A whirlwind with curls and a vintage shift, she did a modified mashed potato when singing and cut completely loose during the instrumental sections.
The rest of the band was a bit more stationary but with good reason; they were clearly focused on maintaining their studio-perfect sound. Sounding like Creedence Clearwater Revival fronted by a gentler Tina Turner, The Ambitions are remarkably tight, creating a cohesive sound that calls to mind Phil Spector or Pet Sounds. Bill Dempsey balanced keys and organs against Kelly Marshall’s impressive guitar while Jorge Banales (bass) added the soul and Sean Hissey (drums) gave the audience a beat they could dance to. It all seemed effortless, a true mark of their collective skill. As for Caz, well, a Tina Turner comparison is more than appropriate. Though not possessing a world weary growl, Caz’s voice reaches out and grabs the audience. Strong but with a remarkable clarity, it brings brightness to every song, not generally found in soul (a great example was their effervescent cover of “The Midnight Hour’). After an hour of dancing all around, The Ambitions leave you wanting more.
Later DCist caught up with the singularly named Caz. The stylish chanteuse is a true local, having grown up in Oxon Hill, Maryland. Raised in the same county, I resisted the urge to discuss (on record) Goatman, It’s Academic or the many ways people pronounce Laurel. Instead, we talked about a decade in the city’s music scene and the special appeal of Gene Kelly.
