The word that best describes the Hot Toddies Jazz Band’s Live From Somewhere Nowhere is celebratory. The performances by the seven-piece band which is led by drummer Patrick Soluri are so full of energy, enthusiasm and excitement that they are irresistible. While the group frequently performs for dancers as in this case, listeners who are sitting down will find much to enjoy on this CD.
It all begins with a high-powered version of “Lester Leaps In” that could have been a set closer instead of an opener. Trumpeter Alphonso Horne, trombonist Jake Handelman (Josh Holcomb takes his place on four numbers) and Linus Wyrsch (heard on this set on tenor and clarinet) certainly came to play. They are each quite rambunctious on “In A Mellow Tone,” one of nine numbers that feature singer Hannah Gill who is heard throughout in top form. While all but three of the 17 songs have vocals, there is a lot of space for the horns whether it is individual solos, tradeoffs or explosive ensembles. The rhythm section (pianist Luther Allison on six numbers, electric guitarist Justin Poindexter, either Ian Hutchison or Brandi Disterheft on bass, and drummer Patrick Soluri) swings joyfully throughout with Soluri really driving the band.
Some of the other highpoints include an infectious “Goody Goody,” “Frim Fram Sauce,” “Is You Is Or Is You Ain’t My Baby” (which has one of two vocals by
