Mo Hippa- about as hip as you can get.
James Harrison | Melbourne, Australia | 05/23/2008
(5 out of 5 stars)
"This is a truly "smokin'" set from the New Orleans based Funk, Blues, Jazz, Rock pianist Jon Cleary and his Absolute Monster gentlemen.
Recorded live in Australia last year, this performance comprises songs from Cleary's albums and some New Orleans standards of- Professor Longhair, The Meters, and King Floyd whose music remains alive in these capable hands. The playing is tight, funky and soulful, with a steady groove and some heavy riffs on guitar from "Big D" Perkins. The record is well recorded and it is impossible to stop your feet from tapping once the disc commences playing.
I listened to this disc following a listen to the new Rolling Stones Live set/soundtrack to the new film. I probably will never listen to the Stones record again but Cleary & co show how live music should be played.
Fantastic. The best live CD I have heard since Neil Young's Live at the Filmore."
Fonk and more Fonk
Music maven | Amherst, MA | 03/21/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Initially I was going to say that this CD should be used in hospitals as a test for whether someone is alive or dead. Just put it on and watch the feet; if the patient is still alive (even if they're in a coma), they will start dancing. That's what I was going to say, but on second listen, I realize that this CD would make even dead people dance. Hell, this recording would even make Dick Cheney get up and shake some action.
Their version of People Say even eclipses the mighty Meters--something I never thought I would live to say. The whole band is red hot, but the drummer, Eddie Christmas, deserves a special mention. He's the best second-line drummer I've ever heard, even better than Zigaboo. He is endlessly inventive, with tremendous sensitivity and dynamics and sense of displaced downbeat that will have your hips doing things no chiropractor ever dreamed of. But the main thing is how the band plays as a whole, like one incredibly funky person with eight arms. Jon's singing has never sounded better or more soulful. The whole thing is recorded beautifully, and really captures the happy energy of the band (I've seen them twice, and they are one of the best live bands I've ever seen). Don't think about it; just buy this."
Can't git any Hippa
A. E. Pagano | Albany, NY | 01/02/2009
(5 out of 5 stars)
"In an era of totally forgettable voices and bands, Jon Cleary shines like a beacon of hope. This Cd is so funky and soulful you'll be hard pressed to find a better new live release from anyone. His vocals are amazing and his keyboard skills are are awe-inspiring. Now add to that a band that sets every song on fire. All are extraordinary musicians. There's not a weak tune or performance on this disc. Classic N'awlins R & B that will only age better with time."
Track Listings (10) - Disc #1