03 May LIVING for Living Colour

I know you’ve been singing “Cult of Personality” in your head all day in anticipation. But Living Colour is SO MUCH MORE than that Grammy winning, Guitar Hero-featured, chart topping track from 1990.

The legendary group based out of New York spans all genres — going from rock to funk to metal in the bat of an eye. Or, as drummer Will Calhoun described the band’s sound to us, “it’s the soundtrack to our lives.”

Calhoun has always been lauded for his ability to blend all types of genres together through his drumming. It’s the group’s undeniable musicianship that has let them stand the test of time. Make no mistake that he and his bandmates will put on a show tonight.

Last year, Living Colour dropped a new album called “Shade” — the group’s first studio album in eight years. Calhoun says to expect some songs off the LP along with some other craziness.

“[Expect] a few classic Living Colour tunes, new material, [a] possible cover tune,” Calhoun hinted. “And a unique full blast rock n’ roll historic extravaganza!”

“Shade” featured new originals like “Program” — a ripper that proves the guys have still got it — or “Who Shot Ya” a Biggie cover that somehow seems even more relevant this year than ever before.  

This is by no means the group’s first music festival performance. The band’s been gigging since they formed in the 80’s and reunited in 2000. But over time, Calhoun said the experience has evolved.

“Technology has changed our existence as artists,” the drummer explained. “Lots of cell phones popping up in the audience, and normally your performances are immediately uploaded to the internet. There are good and bad sides to this situation. I prefer to see people listen and watch the show in real time.”

Bonus Fact: we asked Calhoun if he could catch any other act at SunFest who would it be. His response: “Toots and the Maytals. Why? ‘54-46 Was My Number’”

Living Colour performs Thursday at 6:30 p.m. on the Tire Kingdom Stage.