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| The California Honeydrops debut album Soul Tub!  The California Honeydrops are excited to announce the release of their debut album, Soul Tub!, out on TubTone Records on November 22nd, 2008. This album of all original works is both a dedication to the band's love of the African-American musical tradition as well as their first chance to make people dance with their own songs. Playfully crossing genres from roots and blues to R&B and soul, The California Honeydrops' sound is tied together by their unique stripped-down instrumentation, soulful vocal harmonies, and a funky, good-times New Orleans style. Their unusual sound calls for unusual instruments: home-made tub bass, jug and washboard.Cultural backgrounds stretching from Poland to Uganda coupled with musical backgrounds ranging from classically trained violist to percussionist in a reggae band, these multi-talented musicians continue and honor the complex tradition of the music of the American South. Back from on tour in Europe The California Honeydrops have returned to San Francisco and the East Bay for their album release parties both at Amnesia in San Francisco's Mission district as well as The Starry Plough in Berkeley. The California Honeydrops were formed in November of 2007 playing in the subway stations of Oakland, CA. The only band of its kind, The California Honeydrops' live shows have quickly gained a reputation as the best party in the Bay Area. Born in Warsaw, Poland, band leader Lech Wierzynski started playing blues and jazz as a teenager at after-hours jam sessions in Washington D.C. After studying trumpet with Marcus Belgrave (Ray Charles, Charles Mingus), Lech launched his own career in Oakland as both a band leader and a side-man. Having accompanied artists such as Bonnie Raitt, Dan Hicks, Maria Muldaur, Jackie Payne, Donald Byrd, Mike Seeger, and Ramblin' Jack Elliot, Lech Wierzynski has learned the tricks of the trade from some of the biggest names in American music. The vibrant rhythm section of The California Honeydrops is centered around the solid playing of piano veteran Chris Burns (Johnnie Taylor, Albert Collins, BB King, Elvin Bishop and Maria Muldaur). Switching between tub bass and drums are Nansamba Ssensalo (Jug Free America, Blue Roots, Hud) and Ben Malament (The Marvelettes, Terry Reid, Bill Lee, and Dale Spalding). Laying down a groove that will bring you to your feet, The California Honeydrops' sweet vocal harmonies will stir your soul and get you singing along. Soul Tub! Album Release Date: November 22nd, out on TubTone Records, CD/Digital Release write your comments about the article :: © 2008 Jazz News :: home page |