Album Notes

A few years back, Don Neely felt inspired and emboldened to try his hand at song writing. With encouragement from friends and audiences alike, Don developed his talents. Deja Vu? is a unique and entertaining collection of melodic songs by Mr. Neely that worm their way happily into one's brain and stay there for weeks. They've received great appreciation at many recent events including an evening concert under the coastal redwoods, and a Grand Ball at the Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite, for the Heritage Holidays, (Fabulous annual three-day event which celebrated vintage western style in music, clothing, art, and architecture). Singing with the RSJO on the rousing Hetch Hetchy and others is Tom Bopp, music man at the Wawona Hotel, and Yosemite historian. The RSJO has never sounded better, and plays with heart-stirring spirit and finesse. You'll enjoy scintillating vocals by Carla Normand, Don Neely, and Frederick Hodges. Additional Don Neely songs can be heard on CDs Sweet and Low-Down and Jump Start. Review by Paul Mehling, Leader of the Hot Club Of San Francisco Hi Don, I'm not even finished with the CD yet it's imperative that I write while still listening: In my humble opinion, this is GREAT STUFF (you may quote me). First of all, everyone is playing & singing great- very relaxed, well-rehearsed extremely sincere. This is often not the case when bands play 'original' tunes- they get bogged down in various sticky issues like interpretation, feel, concept, familiarity, etc. You've got quite a crew there, and they're all giving 101% for your tunes, which -to get to the point of things- are GREAT!....... Yes, there's some unabashed recycling of themes but you're very honest (to the point of full disclosure ! " When I first heard the bridge on Tequila Mockingbird I thought, hey- isn't that how dry I am? And you admitted it, which (again in my humble opinion) let's the listener in on the joke or, better still, rewards the listener with the information that they were indeed CORRECT if they caught it and were wondering) There's something for everyone here, you're no one-note jonny, that's for sure. Kaledescopic in your reach, and never attempting to do what is beyond anybody's capabilities. Actually, I don't give you enough credit- but many people just aren't UP for originals and, truth to tell, I took my time getting around to listening to Deja Vu for that very reason (I'm very picky and almost NEVER like any recordings that are in stereo (not to mention on CD)...) Your lyrics are so good. Proud of you and the band, wish I'd been there to cheer you guys on. Even at the bottom of the program the tunes just keep delivering. All too often on recordings the first half are the only real keepers and the rest is sort of a consolation prize for listening past the first 4 or 5. Again, the playing is exquisite! I really should send a valentine to Steve A (I always love his playing..) Marty ( didn't know he played the goddam tuba!) I love Andrew's playing, they're all great. ... I hope you feel GREAT about this record- YOU SHOULD, it's DAMNED GOOD. there, Paul (Paul Mehling, leader of Hot Club Of San Francisco)