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ALBUM REVIEW

"RESILIENCE" Rhombus Records, Hollywood, Ca.

Catz in the Hatz Resilience (Rhombus RHO 7068)

Drummer turned singer, Steve Johnson presents an attractive selection of songs new and old, the latter category the majority, all set in a decidedly contemporary mood. Steve is backed by guitarist Mike Wiens, keyboard player Mike Cross, bassist Terry Copley and drummer Steve Boggio and there is a lithely swinging feel to all that the band does. This is very much music for today but the harshness that sometimes affects contemporary pop is happily absent. Instead there is a rhythmic urgency that is always controlled and as a result creates an on-the-boil atmosphere. When Steve is not singing, he returns to his percussive past with some nice touches. The familiar songs include 'Nature Boy', 'My Funny Valentine', 'Fever', 'One For My Baby' and 'Angel Eyes'. There are some originals, by Steve, Mike W, Terry and others, and also the jazz standard 'Killer Joe' as well as Freddie Hubbard's 'Little Sunflower'. There is, too, the odd surprise, such as Ludwig Van B's 'Für Elise'. Throughout, there is an air that these guys (should that be guyz) are having fun and it is infectious. Altogether, a very attractive set that deserves your attention.


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