local cd review
The Octobermen Live in the Studio By John Keller Making music is a passion and a dedication. I believe that once you begin that journey to perform, it never leaves. The Octobermen are quality examples of this-- veteran musicians who found each other and a common ground. They recently released their first CD, Live in the Studio, and it’s a joy to listen to. The band consists of guitarist Bill Scranton, who was engineer at UCA Studios where countless local bands cut their amazing records, bassist Jeff Ruzich, and Paul Dowd on harp; Paul and Bill share vocal duties. Together they make a wonderful sound and album. I’ve had the pleasure to jam with Paul on several occasions at open mics. The CD starts off with a version of B.B. King’s “Never Make Your Move Too Soon.” Jeff’s bass lays perfect runs on opening, driving it throughout. The vocals are smooth with feeling. Another track, “Ain’t No Sunshine,” is an instrumental that truly shows Scranton’s prowess on the guitar with outstanding lead work along the melody line. A pair of Ray Charles classics, “Unchain My Heart” and “Georgia on My Mind” follow. After is a treat--a Paul Dowd original titled “Beefeater Blues.” Paul tears it up--a hot, burning harp showcase. Changing gears a bit, the band dives into jazz territory with their take on Thelonious Monk’s, “’Round Midnight,” beautifully executed primarily on harp and bass. A couple of tracks later, the gears are switched again to show off something new. The Stevie
Cleaners, Inc. Shirt Laundry, Cold Storage & More! (315) 733-0461 Utica: 1323 Rutger St. and 2524 Oneida St. Barneveld: Mapledale Plaza, Rt. 12 North
www.mvfoodaction.com
Berry Hill Book Shop
Wonder hit “Superstition” is given The Octobermen treatment with Jeff’s bass laying down the funk. One of my all-time favorite songs, The Meters’ “Cissy Strut” is faithfully reproduced by these fine musicians. There are two more original recordings, “Gypsy Dance” and “Joe’s Blues.” “Gypsy Dance” is a slow samba number that makes the body sway; very soulful and dream-like. “Joe’s Blues” is a groovy mid-tempo tune with excellent feel and a passionate solo by Bill. The album ends with Van Morrison’s “Crazy Love.” This is a perfect ending to this quality musical trip. Sixteen songs fill this hour-plus CD, but the time goes by ever so quickly. There are no notes on the drummer. If it is a machine, it is well programmed. If it is a real human, his or her contributions are to be commended--wonderful fills, diversity, and perfect rhythm. Bill, Paul, and Jeff have created an incredible piece of local music history. Blues, funk, soul, jazz, and all stops in between and sideways. If you’re taking a long Sunday drive, throw Live in the Studio in your player and feel the time slide on by. You can catch The Octobermen performing locally at Piggy Pats BBQ in New Hartford and other places. Check their Facebook page for schedule and to get a CD. You’ll be doing yourself a favor! www.facebook.com/TheOctobermen •
Order your Sandwich & Salad Platters 624-0015
Rolled Sandwiches • Soups • Salads
Over 75,000 used books!
See what we have cooking on facebook! (315) 797-6835 2520 Oneida St., Utica
54
2349 Rte 12-B, Deansboro, NY 315-821-6188 Open Tues-Sat 10-5 dls@berryhillbookshop.com
8457 Seneca Turnpike, New Hartford • 315-624-0015 • Open Mon-Sat 10-6, Sun 11-5