Slugger, a funk-soul super group made up of members from Tank and the Bangas, Naughty Professor, Funky Meters, and Brass-A-Holics, have released their first ever live album, Uncut Buzz. The album features guest appearances from emcee Ray Wimley and vocalist Mykia Jovan, as well as rare lead vocals from keys player, Joe Johnson.
The band recorded the album at The Maple Leaf two weeks prior to the first COVID-19 shutdowns. The Maple Leaf has served as a sort of musical home for Slugger since their inception and, with venues across the country struggling to make ends meet, the band is currently splitting all proceeds from the record 50/50 with the club.
Uncut Buzz is a testament to the versatility and spirit of this group. The opening track, “Silver Lining”, shows off Joe Johnson’s soulful vocals and sets the tone for a live album that expertly mixes funk, jazz, gospel, RnB and hip-hop. Guided by a set of dynamic performances from drummer, Terrence Houston, this record certainly shows the range and capabilities of these accomplished musicians.
The album continues with “16 Shots”, a slinking neo-soul song featuring Mykia Jovan. Jovan’s voice is beautifully reflective of her jazz roots and she fits right in with the band’s sound. “George” is another stand out track on the album. An appropriately named funk tune, the band is able to let loose and shred on solo sections, with bassist, Noah Young, and guitarist, Max Bronstein, giving some outstanding performances.
Listening to a new live album, in a time without much live music, almost feels nostalgic. It’s the excitement that rises from the crowd when Ray Wimley starts to chronicle how the night is going on “Take A Breath” and the laughter that the band shares on “He Made A Website.” The feeling of being there is not lost for a second. Joseph Kalb recorded the album that night at The Maple Leaf and remembers the band coming on for the late night slot battling technical issues and catering to a crowd still buzzing off of Mardi Gras. He says “that element of chaos is part of what makes live music, particularly in New Orleans and at The Maple Leaf, what it is.” It will be a very exciting day when Slugger can perform live on that stage again.
Uncut Buzz is currently on sale exclusively through The Maple Leaf’s website. “16 Shots feat. Mykia Jovan” will be available everywhere on January 8 and the full album will be released on January 22 via Bubble Bath Records.
