One CD NO Music Lover Should Be Without
nic s | NYC, NY | 05/13/2001
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Pros: tight musicianship, thoughtful lyrics, catchy tunes Cons: can't pick a favorite track Recommended: Yes If you think this is just another band capitalizing on the swing movement, think again.Although they may be relative newcomers to the scene, The Yalloppin Hounds (the band was founded in 1998)are not newcomers to swing or to any musical genre. Many of the band's members were accomplished musicians in the swing and jazz scenes, before swing hit the mainstream. The leader and trumpet player have all but grown up in the big band circuit.This band, a favorite on the NYC scene, collectively meld hip-hop, swing, and jazz into catchy, fun, and danceable tunes that relate to everyday life and fit every mood. Their tunes however are anything but "typical" swing fare.Take for instance, the track "Oops, My Bad". A catchy number about getting busted cheating with your best friend's girl. How many guys can relate to that?How many can identify with the pain of lost love? "Nobody Knows" is a soulful song that deals with just that issue.But if you're in a light-hearted mood and just feel like dancing (whether you know swing or not) Just try "Hot Dog". There remains to be seen a band that matches the quality --musically and lyrically that the Hounds possess.The leader G-Clef has an extensive musical background including work with famous big bands like Illinois Jacquet and Panama Francis and the Savoy Sultans. Yet, his musical expertise is not limited to jazz alone. He has worked with Wu-Tang Clan and was one of the pioneers of the jazz rap movement, founding Ghetto Philharmonic which lead the way and opened doors for groups like the Digable Planets.A talented sax player and a faithful student of Duke Ellington, G-Clef's writing is showcased on all tracks but one. Lord Sledge lends his Louis Armstrong-like flavor on his trumpet and vocal stylings. He too is an accomplished musician in his own right, working with G-Clef in Ghetto Philharmonic and the Illinois Jacquet Big Bands. Yet maybe he is more famous for his work with the popular ska band, The Toasters.Queen Esther's vocals lend a smooth, sultry, almost haunting quality to the tracks. She also shines on one of her personal favorites, "Flat Foot Floogie", the only cover song on the album. Her deep, powerful voice only enhances the music and lyrics.The rest of the band has a diverse musical background as well. The bassist Lee Alexander is a former member of the popular swing act Lavay Smith and the Red Hot Skillet Lickers. The drummer, Kenny Bolds has played with the legendary Lionel Hampton band. Jeremy Bacon, on piano, is an accomplished musician as well.If you love good music, period--"Ghetto Swing Extreme"is perfect for your collection."
Where it all began.....
John Rexdues | Manhattan, NY | 07/28/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"GSE is the beginning of the Old School Hounds, for those in the know.... this is a definitely classic album! Queen Esther is here with all that attitude and gumption! Lord Sledge preaches on, brother! And let's not forget the songs and alto of the modern genius of jazz, Joey "G-Clef" Cavaseno. All these tunes were well known by the entire swing scene Nationally, and I don't care who you are, if you don't have this album or know every inch of it, you are lost in the sauce, and I don't mean Frim-Fram! 5 stars all the way!"
Track Listings (12) - Disc #1