The Boilermaker Jazz Band: I Love the Rhythm in a Riff

Reedman Paul Cosentino knows his audience and has made a living bringing joy to thousands in the global swing and blues dancing community. As leader of the Boilermaker Jazz Band, Cosentino performs with a brand of old-fashioned showmanship as sincere as it is charming. The band put down traditional roots in the '80s, and has since flourished on the swing scene with its authentic treatment of tunes made famous by Johnny Hodges, Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Billy Eckstine, and more.

The Boilermakers have undergone several roster changes over the past three decades but the incarnation on I Love the Rhythm In A Riff produces a robust sound that stands apart from previous lineups. It is difficult to capture the group's live dynamic on record; so much of the Boilermaker Jazz Band's work is performance art, from costuming to audience interaction. While the record may not capture the golden age spirit of live performances, it showcases the talent and genre-literacy of each band member.

The project is packed with charming moments like Jennifer McNulty's endearing performance on "Oh! Look At Me Now" and Cosentino and DePaolis trading vocal lines on the title track. Guest pianist Gordon Gary's consistent playing makes the group sound larger than it is while trombonist Jeff Bush adds a thick, syrup-sweet layer of sound, giving a full-bodied feel to this collection of riff tunes and love songs. This album is a unique glimpse into the past and, for the swing dance community, a taste of what to expect from upcoming Boilermaker performances. It also marks the record debut of drummer Thomas Wendt and bassist Tony DePaolis with the band, making it a must-have for long-time fans.