Album Notes

The West Coast All Stars is an a capella, jazz/pop vocal quartet featuring four, very prominent and respected singers: Bill Champlin and Jason Scheff (from the group Chicago); Bobby Kimball (current member of the group Toto); and Joseph Williams (former member of Toto). Producer Joey Carbone brought this quartet together to record two albums to date. The All Stars do an excellent job of performing rich, full-bodied versions of classic pop songs. It’s remarkable that these albums are strictly a cappella (vocals only), with no instruments being utilized. All of the songs display terrific multi-layered vocal harmonies, bass vocals, and percussive effects (using handclaps).

California Dreamin’ was the first album the All Stars recorded (in 1997). On this album, they sing a variety of classic songs associated with the famous California pop sound. All of the songs are very appealing and enjoyable to listen to. There are many highlights, including: “California Dreamin’” (originally recorded by the Mamas and Papas); “Rikki Don’t Lose That Number” (Steely Dan); “Takin’ It To The Streets” (the Doobie Brothers); “Hotel California” (the Eagles); “God Only Knows” (the Beach Boys); and “Sister Golden Hair” (America).