Either/Orchestra entered the room to a smattering of applause and exited to a full ovation.

The 10-piece orchestra took the stage almost 20 minutes late, but definitely made up for it with seven songs from their distinct repertoire, which lasted about an hour and a half.

The set began with dissonant chords and a catchy percussion beat during the song “Number 3.” It became immediately clear the night was not going to be pure old-school jazz, but an evolution of it.

The second song of the set, “Gray,” was a slower, melancholy melodic jam that featured baritone sax player Henry Cook. The climax of the song moved perfectly toward the audience, as many sat enthralled, overwhelmed by the awesome strength of the notes.

The audience members were not the only ones touched by the notes. The members of the group, with closed eyes, moved with the rhythm and showed their appreciation consistently through the entire set. It was obvious music was a passion all of the players felt.

A flute entered the equation with the third song, properly titled “Jeremy’s Flute Tune,” since it featured Jeremy Udden, who played the alto sax during the rest of the show. It was a great addition to the upbeat song and presented a unique style to the audience, who was quite receptive at the end.

All of the members presented solos throughout the evening, which showcased each one’s instrumental talent. All of the elements worked well both together and separately. Listening is especially important in a group like the Either/Orchestra, and all 10 of the players were quite attentive and receptive toward one another.

The one cover of the night was a total makeover of the Beatles “Don’t Bother Me,” taken south of the border. The only song with vocals, let alone vocals in Spanish, it presented an intriguing look at how songs are interpreted by different people. Vicente Lebron, normally the percussionist, sang the vocals, with the rest of the members singing backup. None of them were singers and they were all aware of it. Although it was creative and interesting, Either/Orchestra should stick to instruments.

Every member switched instruments to percussion during the last song and conga-lined off stage to a deserving ovation.

Medeski, Martin and Wood sprouted off from Either/Orchestra, and anyone who has ever listened to the trio would have thoroughly enjoyed the show Saturday night. It brought new world elements to the jazz scene, and executed them almost perfectly.

Leah Eaton is a junior in journalism and mass communication from Sioux City.