Poi Dog Pondering is a phenomenal group, really; phenomenal for their self-supported run of large ensemble albums full of pop treasures. The title of this album, Soul Sonic Orchestra, is a synonym for the group itself. Poi Dog Pondering is a sophisticated college rock orchestra with gifted musicians and a talented songwriter in frontman Frank Orrall, who delivers pop music with true soul. These live tracks present excellent live arrangements of such classic songs as “That’s the Way Love Is,” “Natural Thing,” and more. – Tom Schulte