TERRE HAUTE —
The Leonard Washingtons find inspiration, whether through the transformation of jazz standards into drum and bass tracks, or through a 20-minute arrangement of The Beatles, Warren G and dubbed out Pink Floyd. When it comes to what might be considered fair game, the band feels that no genre is off limits.
The Leonards not only will be performing at Blues at the Crossroads this weekend, but will return to The Verve on Sept. 21 for a CD release party.
Based mainly in Terre Haute, The Leonards have been active for the past five years, entertaining crowds and promoting their high-energy, eclectic live performances. During that time the band has been shaping its sound and honing its writing skills. Following its self-produced EP, Introducing The Leonard Washingtons are releasing its first full-length album, “Honest Drangle’s Wino Hat!”
Fronting the band is lead vocalist, pianist, and globe trotting performer Will Foraker. Brining up the low end is bassist and grade school music educator Eric Schatz. Drummer Al Doti establishes the shape, dynamic and pocket for the band sit in. Rounding out the rhythm section is the Leonard’s newest member, guitarist Tim Doyle.
The icing on the cake is the horn section, comprised of Alex Sperellis on tenor saxophone, Natalie Lande on alto saxophone and Mike Nearpass on trombone.
With a constantly evolving pop eclecticism, The Leonards present an ensemble sound brimming with virtuosity and rhythmic mastery while avoiding the pretension of its jazz roots. Few groups straddle the bounds of dinner music, angst- ridden breakup songs, and progressive funk quite as eloquently as The Leonards do.
The band’s new album will be available for download at iTunes and CDBaby on Sept. 21. For more information about the band visit www.theleonardwashingtons.com.
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The Leonard Washingtons will perform at Blues at the Crossroads and are planning a CD release party the following weekend at The Verve. (Submitted photo)
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Leonard Washingtons to play blues festival, plan CD release party
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