With Deep Banana Blackout on hiatus, guitarist/songwriter Fuzz has remained busy as usual by writing new songs and touring with his own band. His new project, titled “Big Fuzz,” calls upon fellow Deep Banana members, Rob Somerville (sax), Rob Volo (trombone) and Benj LeFevre (Bass), as well as Andy Senesi (drums) and Barry Seelen (organ).
Their new release, Exercising the Demons, brings forth Fuzz’s brand of heavy-hitting, horn-laced funk over the course of twelve original, brand new songs. Featuring an energizing blend of music, chock-full of electrifying guitar solos, compelling horn lines, and head-bobbing funky drumming, the album only suffers from rather unpolished vocals and uninspiring lyrics.
Though the lyrics tend to be uninventive, and at times even border flat out cheesy, underneath it all, Exercising the Demons is not without some infectiously catchy tunes. “Top of the Hill” and “Together” stand out as two of the strongest songs with memorable choruses and tight musicianship. A variety of influences also come to light on “Enough,” which resonates with a soulful Stevie Wonder vibe, and “Headin’ for the Door,” which emulates the gritty New Orleans sound of Dr. John.
Not surprisingly, Exercising The Demons doesn’t stray far from the funk and groove of Deep Banana, which should satisfy funk fan cravings for new some material while the band is taking a break from touring. So while there may not be any groundbreaking songwriting, the crafty arrangements and extended jams of this latest effort show a lot of promise to be explored in the live setting.
