The Max Weinberg 7
The Max Weinberg 7
M&K Sound/Universal
While I was disappointed to find that the debut CD from the house band on Late Night with Conan O’Brien didn’t include their theme music from the show, that’s by no means a poor reflection on this tasty CD. If you’ve heard the band on the show, you know what a tight, together, and versatile combo they are. The 17 tracks on this record are built around a solid jump blues base, with each member of the 7 getting a moment in the solo spotlight somewhere on the record. There’s also a lot more vocals on the disc than you might have imagined from the show, with guitarist/arranger Jimmy Vivino and trumpet player Mark Pender handling the lion’s share of the leads, while most of the other guys join in on backing vocals and shout-alongs, and Dr. John guesting on “Catch ‘Em in the Act.” The arrangements are fresh and vibrant and the band is in top-notch form. Just the thing to get the party hoppin’!
Universal Recods, 1755 Broadway, 7th Floor, New York, NY 10019
