SPILL ALBUM REVIEW: GODBOOGIE – PLAY MUSIC & DANCE

Godboogie
Play Music & Dance
VizzTone Label Group

Toronto-based super group, Godboogie, has roots in blues and rock ‘n’ roll through its mash-up of world-class, award-winning musicians including singer/harmonica player Jerome Godboo (the Phantoms), guitarist Eric Schenkman (the Spin Doctors), Shawn Kellerman (Lucky Peterson Band), and drummer Gary Craig (Bruce Cockburn band).  Their April 7, 2017, release of Play Music & Dance, was recorded, mixed and produced by Kellerman. It was recorded in Waterloo’s heritage space Starlight Social Club.

Godboogie has what I’d expect from these talented artists:  high energy blues riffs, strong solos, and creative, wacky lyrics. Listening to Play Music & Dance, I recall my first Godboo experience: mid-1990s, the second floor of a now non-existent Queen Street West bar.  Decked out with his signature harmonica belt glistening in the red and white lights, Godboo took over the room with his amazing intensity.  It is clear why Godboo earned the local title the “Jimi Hendrix Of The Harmonica”.  He has been wooed by Ronnie Hawkins, and has played with Prince.  In 2014, Godboo was crowned Best Harmonica Player, at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis.

While Godboo brings the blues, Schenkman adds the rock to Play Music & Dance from his roots on the Grammy-nominated Spin Doctors album,Pocket Full of Kryptonite. The talent of Play Music & Dance is in the album’s playful lyrics and hard-driving rhythms, notably in the rawer “Sign of the Times”, when the album peaks in intensity. Here onwards are the stronger tracks.  This is an album I definitely recommend seeing live.  Check it out!

Jerome Godboo (Godboogie Frontman) Links