2021 – Joseph Veloz/Big O Records
By Phillip Smith; Nov. 6, 2021
Four years have passed since Veloz’s
last release Offerings made it across my desk for review. That was quite an impressive album. His brand-new record Joseph and the
Velozians again captures my full attention with his delightful originals
and covers. With Veloz laying
down the funkiest of rhythms on bass and Funk-wah guitar, keyboardist Jim
Alfredson and drummer/percussionist Donny Brown hold down the fort for
the other thirteen musicians appearing in varied combinations.
Slathered in a slow buttery groove, “Pretty is as Pretty Does” opens the album with guest Larry McCray behind the mic with his soulful vocals. I love it when he rips it up on guitar during the bridge. The party train continues to barrel down the line as Thornetta Davis sings Muddy Waters’ “I Got My Mojo Working”. Carlton Washington is a beast on guitar as is Jim Alfredson on keys. This is hands-down one of the best contemporary covers I have ever heard of this classic blues track. Davis also delivers a velvety and soulful performance on the 2006 Gnarls Barkley hit song “Crazy”. Veloz takes Bobby Caldwell’s “What You Won’t Do For Love” and breathes new life into the song as a funktified instrumental with a George Clinton flair. The laid-back groove makes for a very chill listening experience.
Joseph and the Velozians is an incredible and inspirational release. R&B fans and funk aficionados are going to love this record.
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PhillyCheeze Review for Joseph Veloz –
Offerings : https://phillycheezeblues.blogspot.com/2017/06/joseph-veloz-offerings.html
PhillyCheeze Review for Thornetta
Davis – Honest Woman: https://phillycheezeblues.blogspot.com/2017/02/thornetta-davis-honest-woman.html
For more information about the artist, visit this website : jmveloz.com
