Customer Reviews

Watch You When You Go

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I was somewhat curious as to what this band would sound like after its recent transformation following the departure of harpist and vocalist Sugar Ray Norcia.

I was pleased to find that despite numerous personnel changes, both recent and over the years, the band really has not lost that hard driving edge that has become their trade mark.

While Nocia's harp is missed on the disc, veteran Mac Odom more than compensates for Nocia's vocal absense and has competently answered the call from the bands opening number "Roll Me Over" right through "Wait and See". Also, Chris Vachon, a constant in the band over the last several years, continues his excellent guitar work throughout this CD and in particular on the instrumental "BackLash". Finally, while the horn section has also undergone a slight personnel change, the band continues its trend of swinging, jazzy blues.

Like, the Fabulous Thunderbirds, this band keeps rolling along and producing enjoyable tunes despite key personnel changes. As usual, there are no surprises here, just good, solid, horn laden blues.

How anyone can give this band or this album one star is stunning. These guys are as much "Roomful" as ever, and still have that huge blues sound. Mac Odom's voice is rich and powerful - a fantastic addition. I also strongly suggest everyone check out their cd, "There Goes the Neighborhood." Both cds swing so hard, you'll fall off your chair.

If there were no other Roomful of Blues releases to compare this to WYWYG this CD might fair better, but as it stands, it sounds like B side material to me. There are couple of moments where you can smell smoke but for the most part, I was disappointed. I agree with a previous reviewer in the lead singer has a voice you either love or hate. For me it's his vocals that drag the CD down to what sounds like a better than average bar room band not the wicked engine of "Under One Roof", "There Goes the Neighborhood" or "Turn It Up!". To be fair, Odom has his moments (Your Love Was Never There), but over all his efforts were a miss for me. Some of the horn arrangements are just average too.

Hoping for a little more octane in the future...

I bought this CD because i'd heard the title track once or twice & thought i'd give it a try. VERY glad i did!! I will definatly be checking out other CD's from this group!!

There was a time when Roomful was a band with a mix of seasoned pros and young talent playing a blend of jump blues, swing, and blues.Over the years there has been alot of personal changes none of the original members are left.Now Roomful has a powerful lead singer with a voice you either love or hate.The band is playing radio friendly tunes.There was a time Roomful was in their own league playing great tunes with a strong horn section.This group sounds like any horn band youd hear in your local nightspot.They are The Roomful Of Blues in name only.