Growing in stature and talent since 2014’s Never Odd or Even, Dopapod have reached that point where they’ve developed their own language as a band, their own cultural framework. The band forged a tight-knit sense of musical improvisation, and their songs have taken on lives of their own as “jam vehicles” and fan favorites. The band has become a community. Furthermore, just this past September, Neal “Fro” Evans, the band’s original drummer, return to his post. The chemistry thickens! Since his earlier departure, the band has moved away somewhat from the prog sound and toward composition that includes rhythmic hooks, refrains and windows to open-ended improvisation: perfect ingredients for more of a party atmosphere during the band’s live shows. Check out the full listing of 2016 shows on their Bandcamp page. We’re spinning the excellent New Haven show in advance of tonight’s Cleveland outing. (Sandy)