"Perhaps the most exciting thing that can happen to a traditional music form is for it get into the hearts and souls of a new group of musicians. Combining several blues chestnuts like "Little Red Rooster" and "Crazy Mama" with some terrific original songs makes Johnny The Bossman a band to watch and especially hear. It only takes a few seconds of the first song to make you realize that this band is the real deal. JTB can belt out songs powerful enough to quell a noisy bar or take an acoustical approach that makes it sound like a group of pros sitting around playing on the front porch. |
I've been fortunate enough to see JTB in a couple of different venues recently and they've delivered each time. The lyrics, melody and rhythm matter most and it's never more evident than in the heartfelt lead guitar and solid singing of Shaun Duke. He is a terrific performer. Strong support comes from the other band members, guitarist-vocalist Shaun Benson, drummer Patrick Gillham, Phil Mannle on bass and Lenny Citrano on harmonica. Even though they only formed the band last year, they sound like they've played together for years. |
The set list veers towards rootsy blues and rock, making for lots of foot tapping while you find your own place in the harmony. The original material like "Turn My Eyes", penned by Duke and Kathryn Atwood, has the feel of music that will be around for generations. Duke and Benson complement each other both in their playing and singing. Their harmonies are easygoing and seemingly effortless. Johnny The Bossman is a band that seems to really enjoy playing, and the audience reaps the benefits."
--Long-time Los Angeles radio personality, actor and writer Rick Scarry |
