Album Notes

Brother Bagman is Kansas City's current representative for original, feel good, groove-driven soul rock. This latest full length release, their second in four years, is the revelation of a band that has clearly played and traveled many miles over the last several years. Hitting you in the gut is the gritty deep-down rythym section of drummer Cole Harvey and bassist Cliff Moore, who is currently coming off a European tour with blues great Michael Burks. The head swayin' groove that was apparent with the band's earlier recordings has grown another grin, loosening and tightening in just the right places. Strolling and struttin' on top of the groove is the southern rock soul of Landon Leist's smooth growling voice. His heavy, rich electric guitar playing combines to lock the audience into a place of understanding and appreciation. The songs keep the listener close and involved, and the tight vocal harmonies of Cole Harvey help to fill the arrangements perfectly.

"Rise Above" is all the more special as it features the fingers of grammy award nominee Johnny Neel, most recognized for his work with The Allman Brothers Band, Lonnie Mack, and Government Mule among many others. He's also one of Nashville's most sought-out session players when it comes to B-3, Rhodes, or Wurlitzer. So Bagman is downright giddy to have their friend jump in and add some icing on the cake during every single track on the album. Thanks johnny, you made it one hell of a record.