It’s been three years since we’ve heard new music from Blue Largo. The wait ended this month with the release of Before the Devil Steals Your Soul. Eric Lieberman and Alicia Aragon have assembled a talent-rich rhythm section from the wealth of Southern Californian artistry and the outcome is stellar. Of the 15 tracks, there are ten new Lieberman compositions and four cover songs. And almost all of them are designed to get you up on your feet. A special acoustic blues bonus track written and performed by Lieberman and album producer, Nathan James, closes out the project.
But make no mistake; this is a full-tilt big band with a solid blues core surrounded by brass, keys, and even a gospel chorale. They transition easily from swing blues to jump, jive, and jazz. Depending on the lineup, they are just as electric ripping up ’50s rock ‘n’ roll as they are putting their stamp on R&B classics and Motown soul. From start to finish this collaboration exemplifies the bands depth and diversity.
Great traveling tunes, “If I Can Make It to Augusta” and “Monrovia,” keep your toes tapping and the Latin-tinged “Bodas De Oro” adds an International flavor. The Electo Rosell-penned instrumental highlights the musical interaction between Lieberman’s guitar, pianist Taryn Donath, and percussionist Mike Tempo. You realize a project is based in love and friendship when it’s dedicated to the memory of no less than six friends. That includes the track “The Long Goodbye,” which touches on the devastation of Alzheimer’s and how difficult it is losing a friend while they are still alive. My bet is the CD won’t leave your player.
Blue Largo’s CD release takes place on Friday, October 19, at Tio Leo’s.