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11/1/2004

Sheldon T. Nunn

Nowadays, remembering the music of a bygone era is a good thing, especially when reminiscing about the Memphis sound that once reverberated from the studios of Stax Records. For almost twenty years, the label kicked out hit after hit from the voices of Al Green, Rufus Thomas, Sam & Dave, Ike Turner, Issac Hayes, David Porter, Carla Thomas and a host of other notable individuals. Much of the credit for Stax's phenomenal success can be attributed to the musicians who recorded those storied studio sessions. As if by magic, groups such as The Mar-Keys and Booker T. & the MGs helped make the label a legend in the annals of soul, R&B, funk and blues during the 1950s, '60s and '70s. The demise of Stax Records came in 1976, it also chronicled the end of an era. But what was once lost in time is now being revisited with the recording of a new release entitled 'The Bo-Keys' The Royal Sessions'.

The Bo-Keys are a select group of musicians, a few of which have a history dating back to the heydays of Stax Records. They have now come together with ten-tracks of outstanding funk-oriented instrumentals. Reflecting on the music of The Mar-Keys, The Bo-Keys build on the traditions of nineteen-plus years of excellence. 'The Royal Sessions' is filled with extraordinary rhythms, syncopated funk and old school grooves. Pulled together by bassist Scott Bomar, this group of veteran musicians have recorded an album that resonates with a renewed vision of yesterday once more, but with one exception. The Bo-Keys are not about just playing old school sounds, they are also about the business of adding jazz into a mix of rhythmic fusion. Inasmuch as the Memphis sound is the focal point, it is only fitting that the traditions of "America's Most Original Art Form" is also an integral part of the CD.

When listening to this recording, the dynamics of everything eternal and perpetual can be found on each track. The reality of the Memphis sound envisioned by Scott Bomar when he formed The Bo-Keys is true to form on this esoteric mix of soul, funk, R&B and jazz. Collectively the total blend of music and musicians, both past and present continues to be the stuff of legend. As with all things fundamentally etched in history, 'The Royal Sessions' is a unique offering highlighted with exceptional quality.