Search - Gamble Brothers Band :: Back to the Bottom

>> When I first heard these guys play at Huey?s in Midtown Memphis, I became an instant fan. Their music was so fresh, yet obviously inspired by the three historic sites of soulful record-making in the South: Muscle Shoals, Memphis and New Orleans. There were choice cover tunes by the Meters, Allen Toussaint, Otis Redding, Al Green, the Band, Dylan, Marley and more that the group expertly arranged and made their own, along with clever, inventive, self-penned songs that truly were original. My first impression hasn?t changed, just intensified. Then and now what locks you immediately into their funky modus operandi is the Crescent City second line syncopation and in-the-pocket pops of Chad Gamble?s drumming. Reinforcing this unceasing rhythmic flow is the crawling, pulsating, agile bass work of Will Lowrimore. Back to the bottom indeed. Al Gamble?s keyboard work overlays it all with those cool vintage tones, percolating wah-wah intensity, organic vibrato swells, and tasteful, delectable soloing. To top it off, Art Edmaiston?s sax work offers a cornucopia of righteous riffs that can blow a burning injection of bebopping jump into the mix and send this band into orbit. And everybody sings! Back To The Bottom ups the ante in terms of creativity and expression. It is a fully realized work of studio artistry, where attention to detail and subtle production enhancements allow the songs? many facets and textures, as well as the consummate musicianship and genuine good vibes of this band, to shine through. And though the performances here are inspired, they skillfully avoid jamband excess. If you are new to the GBB, this CD will be a revelation that grabs you from the get go. You?ll soon find yourself head-bobbing, booty-shaking, and singing along while you feverishly try to find out when this combo will be playing at a tiki bar nearby. Repeated plays will reap evermore appreciation. As with all great music, these songs will take you somewhere special?.so slip down Escape Alley to the winding banks of the Mississippi, discover the lair of the mythic Cadillactopus, and get Back To The Bottom with the Gamble Brothers Band. Southern living is good for you. Dan Phillips, The Spin Doctor, WEVL, Memphis