Album Notes

Can’t Stop Now, the new CD release from JoBonanno & The Godsons, was recorded during the winter and spring of 2008-2009 at LakeHouse Music in Asbury Park, NJ. The project was produced by Jon Leidersdorff, and engineered and mixed by Rob Lebret. The album marks a maturity in songwriting over the group’s 2003 release Turn Up the Heat (a true party record) as well as the precision of ensemble execution that results from playing hundred of gigs all across the tri-state are for many years.

The record boasts a diversity of styles while at the same time exhibiting a cohesive sound throughout. “Americana” is a term that comes to mind when trying to convey the varied influences that are exposed in this 12-song album. Country, Cajun, 60’s Pop, Gospel, Ballads and Rockers all make their appearances in this 50-minute listening experience. Bandleader JoBonanno’s personality jumps out of the speakers whether he’s s**t-kicking in “Don’t Ya Close This Bar Down”, crooning “One Kiss Led To Another” or howling his way through “You Bring The Beast Out In Me”. The rhythm section of Leidersdorff on drums and bassist Ed Horne lay down a solid foundation, while multi-keyboardist Bruce Marson provides the flavor and Dennis Miele’s guitars add the necessary spice to this Rock & Soul stew. Lou Felipe is the final piece of the puzzle providing strong backing vocals, percussion and a wailing harp that fuels “The Doctor Is In”. Rock n’ Roll legend Gary U.S. Bonds adds his distinctive vocal style to the R&B-flavored “Every Note I Play” (which songwriter Dave Gonos colors with his tenor sax). The Soul Cruisers Horns (Screamin’ Steve Barlotta; sax, Steve Hyde; trumpet ; and Pete Mauer; trombone) are also a prominent addition to three of the tracks.

"Can’t Stop Now" is solid Rock n’ Roll from a solid Rock n’ Roll band.