Shuffle Demons: Are You Really Real

There is a unique brand of musical madness that only the Shuffle Demons can conjure—a whirlwind of saxophones, humour, groove and a palpable sense of daring. With Are You Really Real, this storied Canadian outfit delivers a recording that captures the very essence of what made them both a cult favourite and respected presence on the international jazz scene. Bristling with invention, personality and raw performance energy, the album feels like a live set caught in a studio net—exhilarating, unfiltered and unmistakably Shuffle Demons.

The 13 original tracks are all compositions by the band members which include Richard Underhill alto and baritone sax, Kelly Jefferson tenor sax, Matt Lagan tenor sax, Mike Downes acoustic and electric bass and Stich Wynston drums. They deliver a stylistic sprawl that is as fearless as it is fun. It defines the band's identity—fiercely rhythmic, gleefully irreverent, anchored in razor-sharp musicianship. The title track "Are You Really Real" pivots to a rap-style vocal by Underhill, one of the co-founders of the group and its primary composer, writing seven of the numbers. The tune has a probing melody and undercurrents, revealing the band's compositional depth beyond the theatrics. "Good Mourning" (not "Morning") is a bright, punchy number that might suggest how Thelonious Monk could have written a children's TV jingle.

Underhill presents a fine satirical line with biting rap-infused lyrics on "Money Is My Only Religion." Its gritty blues-funk feel showcases the group's political edge and ability to twist genre conventions into something fresh and immediate. The joyful cacophony continues with "Sunny Side Up," filled with punchy melodic hooks and pulsing with positivity. Following on is "Prism," which finds the band in a musically expansive frame. With layered saxophone textures and featuring a lengthy bass solo from Downes, the number evokes a kaleidoscope of moods.

The closer is "Run The World," which is pure Shuffle Demons—funky, assertive and unapologetically audacious. The number is a rallying cry for creative freedom, with Underhill delivering a fierce alto solo as Wynston provides propulsive coverage on the drum kit. The album is a celebration of the sound of a band fully in command of its singular voice.

Comments