Hypnotic Clambake is a band that “attacks and seeks to overthrow traditional or popular ideas of what music is and should be.” At least, that’s the definition they give on their website and, indeed, they hold quite true to this description. They are a band that is quite unique, electrifying, and full of variety.

Hypnotic Clambake got together back in 1990 in Boston. They started with their first CD, Square Dance Messiah, to get all the way here today with the release of their newest album Mayonnaise.

If you happened to catch their live performance outside the Student Union on April 21, you would have been able to get a feel for just how magical this band really is. A smile might have suddenly appeared on your face as you found yourself swaying to the distinctive sounds. Immediately I became hypnotized as I fell onto one of the big rocks on the grass and sat entranced by their performance.

Hypnotic Clambake is entertaining, engaging, and inspiring. They make you want to get up and dance. With this jam band, you’re always treated to something new. They are not afraid to play some polka with style.

Instruments used in the new album Mayonnaise include the accordion, piano, keyboards, percussion, guitars, bass, drums, electric bass, and of course, the clarinet. That list should be at least one sign that this band has got something special. The accordion is just a damn cool instrument, plain and simple. And the talent with which the clarinet is played is absolutely enthralling.

Hypnotic Clambake is a band that you simply should not go without. Not only are they instrumentally aware and attuned to what they’re playing, they’re also lyrically inclined as well, which adds for some humor in many of the songs. I mean, with lyrics like “turn your brain off when the politician speaks,” how can you go wrong?

So do yourself a favor and go pick up Hypnotic Clambake’s album Mayonnaise and expect to find yourself in the mood for more. Their annual music festival will be held June 3 and 4 in Sherman, New York. For more information on the festival and on their band in general, log onto their official website at www.hypnoticclambake.com.