Ask yourself. When was the last time you had fun, I mean really had fun, listening to a CD? If it's been a while, then treat yourself to El Bando En Fuego by Lee Press-On and the Nails. This little treasure is a kicky blend of schlock and sophistication. It is impossible to accurately pidgeonhole El Bando En Fuego. Think Spike Jones meets Xavier Cougat.

LPN's ten members turn out a great sound led by the solid playing of Lee on organ, therenim and marimba. Lee's irreverent personality shows in his interpretation of such standards as "Begin the Beguine" (a song that has never been one of my favorites, but in this particular rendition was enjoyable), and "Brazil"(performed on the therenim).

Besides Lee, the other shining light in this offering is vocalist Leslie Presley. It goes without saying that she has a wonderful voice, but that wouldn't be enough to make her stand out. Add to the voice a solid understanding of the music and you get something special. "Coax Me A Little Bit" is a prime example of Lesley at her best.

The real purpose of covering standards is helping listeners appreciate LPN 's original fare even more. These songs offer some of the most original lyrics out there. "Labrea Tarpits... where nobody's dreams come true" comes to mind.

This CD may be hard to find. Visit www.leepresson.com for more information.

Track listing: Pico and Sepulvida, Begin the Beguine, Brazil, God's Gift, Bai Mir Bist Du Schon, At An Arabian House Party, C.o.t.E Anthem, It Had Better Be Tonight, Hate Street Blues, shaolin Kung-fu Death Grip on My Soul, Coax Me A Little Bit, Two Points Up, Pink Elephants On Parade, enjoy Yourself, Well Did You Evah, Mexican Radio.

Personnel: Lee Press-on. vocals, Mallet instruments, theremin, pipe organ. Leslie Presley,voacals finger cymbals, Mark Donnelly, also sax, Mike Bello, tenor sax, Pat Byers, baritone sax, flute, Bob thies, trombone, Todd Grady, trumpet, CDanny Uzilevsky, guitar, Ian Dickenson, upright bass, Patrick Matranga, drums

Style: Dixieland/New Orleans/Swing
Published: January 05, 2003

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