This Connecticut-based group specializes in '70s-style, keyboard and horn drenched soul, finding the common ground at the core of disco ("Disco Inferno"), soul balladry (Aretha Franklin's "Natural Woman"), and organ jazz.Producer/composer/keyboardist Noah Baerman is a witty, inventive arranger, and Lea Osborne a versatile vocalist. The album includes a slinky, half-tempo cover of the Nick Lowe/Elvis Costello gem "(What's So Funny 'Bout) Peace Love and Understanding," revealing the Stax-flavored soul song hidden inside the angry punk tune.
-- Seth Rogovoy, Berkshire Eagle
The Boogie Band does what any good soul band should - they groove their socks off. A band such as this can only achieve success with commitment from all its members to find the pocket and stay there. The Boogie Band does just that.
-- Jon Babu, Northeast Performer Magazine
Lea Osborne has a strong voice that easily moves up into higher registers without becoming strident. "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman," a song long associated with Aretha Franklin, is a great place to check out her fine work. She doesn't force the pace nor does she attempt to imitate Franklin. There are no tricks; she just sings the heck out of the song.The catchiest track is a blistering remake of the Trampp's "Disco Inferno." Overall, their sound is reminiscent of Sly and the Family Stone. In this day of strict programming on radio stations, Mr. B's Boogie Band may be a bit too eclectic. For those of us raised on free-form radio (that often matched Jimi Hendrix with John Coltrane, Ravi Shankar with ZZ Top, or the Beatles with Marvin Gaye), it truly is a pleasure to hear such a variety of music on one recording.
-- Richard Kamins, Hartford Courant
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