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Band Info
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 Reviews
Catahoula
by Scott Dudelson
Material: With roots firmly planted in New Orleans R&B, this Cajun-flavored seven-piece takes great pains exploring the melting pot of sounds inherent to Louisiana's R&B tradition. Culling a wide range of original material, with a cover or two strewn about, Catahoula creates dense, down home melodies which are accentuated by the three-part harmonies of vocalists Clay, Bermudez, and VanBuskirk. For all intents and purposes, this act perfectly blends the vocal warmth of Crosby, Stills and Nash with Dr. John's penchant for bringing home the boogie.
Musicianship: While the vocal trio is the focal point, Catahoula's rhythm section is their unsung warhorse. Consistently laying down a tight boogie, bassist O'Hara and drummer Goldberg are a formidable duo, creating swampy rhythms that are complemented by the band's rich harmonies. Equally integral to their sound is lead guitarist Gillis, who serves as the group's resident bluesman, dishing out blistering guitar runs as effectively as he lays down languid blues fills.
Performance: Void of flashy theatrics, Catahoula's show was a loose, kick-back affair with a sense of community. Clay, Bermudez and VanBuskirk displayed an impeccable rapport, feeding off each other to create inspired, dueling harmonies which energized their performance. This energy is the driving force that spearheaded tunes like "Big Mama," with its dirty blues riffs, and their soulful cover of Aretha Franklin's "Baby I Love You."
Summary: Despite performing music that may be outside the mainstream, Catahoula shows enormous potential with unique three-part harmonies and well-focused melodies. Fans of New Orleans R&B will have no problem embracing this act's fresh approach to the material, while casual fans will, no doubt, be intrigued by their killer musical interplay.
Photo By: Rod Goodman
Contact: Artist Hotline, 323-957-2650; itsmusic@earthlink.net:
Web: www.hgd.com/catahoula
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The Players: Pamela Clay, vocals, percussion; Bruce Bermudez, vocals, rhythm guitar; Bob Schoonover, guitar; Jon O'Hara, bass; Lindsay Gillis, lead guitar; Floyd VanBuskirk, vocals, percussion; Paul Goldberg, drums.