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Schoolkids' (label) Does It Again

Schoolkids' (label) Does It Again image
Parent Issue
Month
October
Year
1995
Copyright
Creative Commons (Attribution, Non-Commercial, Share-alike)
Rights Held By
Agenda Publications
OCR Text

The RFD Boys "Live and Unrehearsed" Schoolkids' Records

Dick Dieterle, Willard Spencer, Charlie Roehrig, and Paul Shapiro are The RFD Boys, and for over 25 years they have been playing their version of classic bluegrass, country waltzes and acoustic good-time music at The Ark and other venues around town. Their latest release was recorded last July and December at The Ark and is a fine example of their wares. Their harmonies are clear, their repertoire is traditional, and their energy and verve is infectious. The strongest cuts are the country classic "Detroit City (I Want to Go Home)," the rousing fiddle tune "Possum Lick" and the stunning lament "Shackles and Chains." One should really catch this troupe at The Ark (where they play once or twice a month), but this recording is a good representation of their very strong work.

Mr. B and the Bird of Paradise Orchestra "Hallelujah Train" Schoolkids' Records

Once again Mr. B has come up with a classic recording. This time his boogie woogie, gospel, rock 'n' roll barrel-house piano, also recorded at The Ark, is augmented by the fabulous Bird of Paradise Orchestra. The result is at times breathtaking. With some 17 musicians playing, including three trumpets, three trombones, and four saxophones, the sound could be a hodge-podge of cacophony. But because of the excellent arrangements of BOP leader Paul Keller and percussionist David Froseth, the ensemble's control is nearly perfect, just enough support with just enough energy. We in Ann Arbor are very fortunate to have such an ensemble and talent as Mr. B and the BOP Orchestra so readily accessible (catch the Orchestra Monday nights at the Bird of Paradise).

Although all the tunes are above average, the opener, "Hallelujah Train," instantly grabs you. B's strong hand mixed with Froseth's dynamic arrangement pulls the listeners along, hell-bent for action. Look out! It might make you want to repent and praise the Lord. The sax solos on B's own " Little Brother" gives one the shivers. On this tune B takes the melodic backseat to the orchestra - clearly an indication of the respect he has for their musicianship and vice versa.

The finale, "B's Boogie Woogie," at over ten minutes long, gives everyone an opportunity to shine. B's left hand has never been stronger, Keller's and Mark Hynes' arrangement is first rate, and the ensemble is blowing their brains out. This tune could/should go on for hours. It is both raw and controlled, a near-perfect tune. Hear it for yourself. Pick this exceptional recording up today!

Paul Vornhagen "Mercy" Schoolkids' Records

Vornhagen is arguably the best saxophonist in town. His tone is exquisite. His technique and feel are distinctive and compelling. Unlike so many other saxophonists who are limited by the parameters of the instrument, Vornhagen stretches the limits thus setting his style uniquely apart from most others. He is particularly strong on slower numbers where his powerful technique takes a back seat to his understated phrasing and soothing style. On tunes like "Makin' Whoopee" he coaxes us along with great rubato playing.OnColePorter's"I Get a Kick Out of You" his playing is almost soulful.

Vornhagen also sings like he plays: sweet and soft. Reminiscent of Chet Baker, his voice is commanding but not forceful or dominant Instead of interfering with the mood established by his stylized him playing, his singing merely carries the same mood a little farther towards a very enjoyable listen.

Vornhagen often plays at the Del Rio on Sunday nights and at the Bird of Paradise. Check for him and don't miss him.

The Jim Tate Band "Let Me Introduce You..." Independent release

The Jim Tate Band plays virtually every Friday night during happy hour at the Blind Pig. They play basically cry-in-your-beer country music and do it well. With Tate's sweet baritone, Chris Goerke's strong bass, legend Al Hill's guitar and keyboard, Dan Mclntyre's country guitar licks, and Mark Newbound's supportive drums they are one strong country outfit. If you haven't seen them, they are a must.

Like The RFD Boys' recording this too was recorded live at The Ark. But unlike the pristine production found on the RFD Boys' record, Jim and Julie Tate's production leaves room for improvement. Although it may have been their intent to capture the performance in its rawest state, the low-fi quality doesn't do their work, nor ensemble tightness, justice. Tate's vocals are too distant in the mix. The bass is indistinct. Hill's and Mclntyre's background vocals are too muddy. This band is much better live.

But even with these weaknesses, this CD is worth getting. Eleven of the 17 tracks are written by Tate, and they clearly demonstrate a mastery of the country genre unsurpassed in this town. Especially strong are "Let Me Introduce You...", "Take Me Now," and "Same Old Song."