If one didn’t know the history of the Doughboys, there’d be no clue how long they’ve been around. Considering how energetic and edgy the East Coast band is, it’s only expected they would be pegged as youngsters. But the truth is, they’ve been making music for nearly half a century!
Formed in 1963, the Doughboys enjoyed several years of regional acclaim before dismantling at the end of the decade. The members of the band remained in the music biz however, working separately on assorted projects. Among the most visible of the bunch are lead singer Myke Scavone, who fronted the mighty boogie metal band Ram Jam, and drummer Richard Heyman, who launched a successful power popping solo career that is still going strong today.
The Doughboys reunited in 2000, and not only did they find they retained the magic, but the public was thoroughly blown away by their offerings. Since then, the band has released a trio of albums, along with a DVD that have all amassed astronomical applause.
Unlike the majority of acts that get back together after decades of laying dormant, the Doughboys are equipped with new original material that maintains solid ties to their past without falling prey to kitschy nostalgia. Rather than perform cookie-cutter versions of hits of yore, the band wisely elected to pick up right where they left off.
Swollen with rough and tough rockers rooted in the blues, Shakin’ Our Souls (RAM Records) evokes pleasant memories of groups such as the Rolling Stones, the Pretty Things and early Aersomith, not to mention various “Nuggets” and “Pebbles” type bands. But again, the Doughboys do not simply recycle cobweb-covered notions, as they approach their tautly-written songs with a here and now presence.
Ignited by a steamy whirlpool of intimidating sneers, smoking riffs, ferocious drumming and stabbing hooks, “Rush On You,” “Until The Clock Strikes Doom,” “Land,” “One More Time” and the title track of the disc illustrate the band’s sweaty, sexy and sinister sound to perfection. The rhythms swagger with aggression, while monumental harmonies add extra appeal to the repertoire.
A funky groove arises on the dance-dappled “It’s A Cryin’ Shame,” which features ex-Paul Revere and the Raiders lead singer Mark Lindsay on saxophone and background vocals. The legendary Genya Raven also appears on “Shakin’ Our Souls,” as she contributes vocals to “Love Is The Seed,” a jingly melodic folk pop tune that lends a nice balance to the raw and rugged romps dominating the album.
Tight, coordinated and sizzling with electricity, the Doughboys are everything a good rock and roll band should be. Bustling with activity, but lean and snappy, the songs on Shakin’ Our Souls are so catchy that you’re sure to remember them upon first listen.
So for a rocking good time, slap this record onto the CD player and prepare to have your soul shaken – the Doughboys are indeed where it is at!
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