“Going Home” begins with “Today,” a spirited track that feels part melodic pop, part Southern jam, part late night dance party. This varied, interesting song provides a momentous start to the album, and the song closes in triumphant, head-rocking waters. “Here For You” displays warm vocals, likable chorus, and syrupy guitar licks to create a yearning, sophisticated track. The title track saunters by on the strength of horn and excellent vocals, laying foundation for Dennis Stadelman’s guitar and a relaxed Caribbean “vibe.” Juan Montero’s full bodied saxophone colors the perimeter, providing excellent flourishes as the song ratchets to its conclusion. The playful banter of banjo introduces “Take Me Over” and intermingles with saxophone and vocals to create an interesting dynamic. Some of the more exploratory passages seem reminiscent of the Flecktones, where banjo reverberates against tight fusion jazz.
Energetic, spirited horn play establishes a nice introduction for “Creeker.” The song matures into a hard-charging funk jam colored by robust saxophone and talkative guitar. This song segues nicely into “IntoMine,” a track punctuated by spirited guitar, Montero’s keyboard work, and contemplative lyrics. The playful touch of piano accentuates “Awake” and adds a charming quality to a warm, engaging song. Montero’s saxophone leads the later measures of the song, offering another glimpse of his versatility and skill. “Babylon Man,” a reggae track infused with yearning saxophone and the spirit of dance hall lyrics, displays a triumphant, resounding spirit. A game of “hide seek” seems evident in the lyrics of “Come and Find Me,” as playful keyboards invoke the spirit of youth. The song develops into a full-flavored jam and then returns to the likable simplicity of its earlier measures.
The songs in “Going Home” present a cross section of spirited jams, splashed with funk and screaming guitar, to thoughtful tracks characterized by polished lyrics and an almost “pop” sensibility. These differing personalities work well on the tracks of “Going Home,” making for an interesting, diverse package. The tracks “Today” and “Creeker” will definitely make a play list of “Energetic Romps” I have on my Ipod, while “Awake” surprises me with its story of nocturnal distraction. The album is characterized by warm lyrics and vocal contributions, excellent work from Juan Montero on the myriad instruments he plays, and tasty flashes of rollicking guitar. The resulting concoction is well-mixed, varied, and satisfying.
- By J. Evan Wade
I know these guys and let me tell you if you haven't seen them live you haven't lived! This review was a guitar/sax love fest (although well deserved) I was saddened that Dave Gerlut's clever drums beats got overlooked as the driving force and heartbeat to this album. There is also the "other" Stadelman. :) This album thumps the subs with some serious bottom end while still handling vocal duties. All in all, these four guys should go pretty far and should tear up the festival scene. This album is only the beginning to an amazing whirlwind of a trip. Everyone should buy this album, go see them at a city near you, and put on your dancing shoes and get ready to shake your booty!!! I heart Cope and so should you!
This band is smoking hot! saw them at a festival and they blew me away. Might very well be the best sax player I've ever heard and the guitarist was on point. Great mix of styles and instruments and overall well written songs but still jammy. This new cd is impressive and wish them all the best of luck and success.
Been hearin bout these gentlemen for the last couple of months now. Even had the pleasure of meeting them. I just caught them at Bear Creek last weekend and I couldn't be more floored. I thought they're album was great, but live . . . THEY'RE UNREAL. So much more to come from these guys and I want to be there for every minute. Strongly recommended!
Just saw Cope covering Beatles songs at the Plaza and was blown away! This was an evolution on a theme, not just a variation. Masterful and trippy, Cope went down the road less traveled on their version of "dear Prudence" and "Get Back". I was moved and pleased beyond my ability to express it. I want more. I was expecting a cover band and instead got a tasty treat that brought me back to my youthful exuberant music enjoying self who has been missing for a decade. I thank you Cope and I owe you, see you in Tampa. T-Moore Winter Park.
Cool! Yeah saw them a couple weeks ago and they mentioned they were going to do that. Hopefully I'll get to see one of their cover shows sometime. I think they played under a pseudonym - do you recall what it was?
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