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Alpha Rhythm Kings: California Boogie

By Jim Olin
July 9, 2018
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Alpha Rhythm Kings is a group with a fondness for charming retro vibes and timeless melodies, inspired by the golden age of jazz and swing. Their music is groove-driven, direct, and approachable, making for a diverse yet refreshingly familiar sound. Their most recent release is a studio EP titled California Boogie, which exemplifies the group's tone and style. The record features four tracks, including opening number "Oh Marie," a catchy and sophisticated song with playful jazz melodies and fantastic lead tones, delivering a vintage flavor that brings me back to the '30s and '40s. The title cut is particularly atmospheric, due to the beautifully brushed drums and clean piano. "Something for Sellers" has got a real NYC jazz vibe, with a cool fusion style inspired by Latin music.

Last, but decidedly not least, "Boo Woo Woo" is perhaps one of the most uplifting tracks on the EP, and it stands out as a great closing number, with a lot of attitude and color.

Personnel

Alpha Rhythm Kings

Rob Dehlinger: vocals, trumpet; Fil Lorenz: tenor saxophone, backing vocals; Mike Rinta: trombone, backing vocals; Vernon Ice Black: guitar, backing vocals; Hardy Hemphill: piano, backing vocals; Aaron Germain: bass; Derrek C. Phillips: drums, backing vocals; Bob Skye: percussion.

Album information

Title: California Boogie | Year Released: 2018 | Record Label: Self Produced

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