Pimento Project reviewed by Denny Barker

Pimento Project
The Blue Olives

Self Released
www.blueolives.com
5Tracks,/22:38

The Blue Olives latest release PIMENTO PROJECT, the bands 4th album, is a very well done set of self penned original tunes. A large group, seven members, with a big sound, the Olives are much more than just a blues band. They are a group of seasoned musicians who have done a nice job of combining blues, rock, funk with a touch of jazz, reminiscent of B S &T. Creative writing, varied themes and strong vocal performances from four of the bands members have combined to produce an interesting and entertaining CD

The disc opens with a nice blues tune SEE YOU SMILE well done with some great sax work to compliment the fine vocal work from keys man Todd Phipps. The second track, Three Hour Tour, is a clever tune based on the cast of Gilligans Island. Although somewhat of a departure from the norm, it shows the bands willingness to have some fun and do something different, a fun listen and one of the highlights of the CD.

Tracks three and four demonstrate the vocal prowess of. Baseman Johnny Payne who says WERE DOING THE BEST WE CAN and he hopes YOU'RE FEELIN THE BEST YOU EVER HAVE. An upbeat happy tune that says MUSIC HAS THE POWER TO MAKE YOU MOVE.

The closer I WON'T LET YOU GET AWAY AGAIN is by far my favorite cut on this CD. Featuring two lead vocalists, it's bluesy, jazzy and easy going with some great muted horns that compliment the fine vocals from saxophonist Joan Herzing and keyboard man Todd Phipps. I have listened to it a dozen times and I still want more, a great finale to a fine piece of work from the Blue Olives. If you have not seen and heard them live, be sure to catch one of their shows soon. Based in Madison, they perform regularly in the Wisconsin and Northern Illinois area and can be seen frequently at the Chicago House of Blues. PIMENTO PROJECT, a fine CD, get one soon and enjoy.