So Beautiful
Paradiddle, 2022
8/10
A Long Island, New York outfit who take much inspiration from the sounds of New Orleans, The HooDoo Loungers bring us a dozen originals and 3 interpretations of Americana roots classics on this very eclectic and impressive effort.
The title track opens the listen with bright brass, warm organ and soulful, expressive singing to guide the powerful climate, and “Hoodoo Time Machine” follows with lively percussion, no shortage of rhythm and many vocals harmonizing in the New Orleans flavored delivery.
Moving down the line, “Hit The Ground” recruits plenty of melody to the swingin’ rock’n’roll landscape, while “Yes We Can Can” benefits from animated keys, well timed horns and smooth, agile singing. “Fast And Loose” might be the album’s best, and moves quickly with a gospel slant to its retro rock’n’roll spirit.
Nearing the end, “Rockin’ The Mardi Gras” certainly could soundtrack the occasion with its infectious energy, and “Another (Hunkered-Down) Day” exits the listen with a throwback rock feel that’s a bit jangly in its diverse formula.
For those who appreciate the work of legends like Louie Armstrong, Fats Domino, and Trombone Shorty, So Beautiful is a listen that’s packed with much charm, originality and timelessness as The HooDoo Loungers touch on gospel, R&B, jazz and funk like few others can.
Travels well with: Willie Nile- The Day The Earth Stood Still; Dori Freeman- Ten Thousand Roses