Review:

on 2012-06-26 Michael_Morrison Said:

Most would agree most popular artists out there have something truly special to give to their fans. This goes above the typical attributes like raw talent, amazing songs, nice voice, or even a very marketable look, sound and image. There's something truly infectious at the core of these artists that simply makes us feel good when we listen to them. Whatever "it" is - they all seem to have "it".

Today I listened to Chicago based blues band: The Blue Olives. Their latest EP release is entitled Pimento Project was released in 2012. Band members include Anton Seda (Trombone) Dave Turner (Guitar and Vocals), David Bell (Drums), Joan Heraing (saxophone and Vocals), Johnny Payne (Bass and Vocals) and Ryan Shea (Saxophone) and Todd Phipps (Keys and Vocals). Venturing to the website and reading their bio I get the impression these cats are vintage players. I also get the impression that these guys know what they're doing both behind the glass and on a stage. The badd has played over 3,000 shows to date and has been awarded winner: Best Vocal Ensemble and Cover Band (2010) and Best Jazz Ensemble (2009) From start to finish this CD from Dave Turner and company is a very pleasurable and entertaining musical experience. It has a very soothing R&B quality to it and even dabbles in Saloon Style Americana and Psych3delic Funk popular in the 70's. Any fans of any of these musical styles will enjoy this latest release from The Blue Olives. It's clearly marketed for those who like a male singer with a tongue and cheek mystique of say a Dr. John or Randy Newman. But there is a powerhouse side to this band as well with sounds similar to Rare Earth, Stevie Ray Vaughn and even Little Feat. I get the impression Turner and company are just rolling with what they knows as performers/songwriters within each one of these songs. In other words they hit the mark remarkably well by just being who they Favorite tracks include (Three Hour Tour) and (I Won't Let You Get Away Again) All songs possess amazing feel and personality. The songwriting digs a bit deeper than the next blues band. Within each one of these songs TBO bare their soul and delivers pure musical mojo. The overall vibe of the production is all things Rock-Blues - need I say more?

In close The Blue Olives are a polished 7 piece unit. Let me go on records and say this CD went straight from my home stereo to my car stereo. Once again I'm not so sure what "it" but I think it's safe to say The Blue Olives have whatever "it" is.

Michael Morrison (UK) Scotland
Edited by Cyrus Rhodes
Rating: 7/10