From the moment the music comes on, you are transported to the roaring twenties! Nicollet and Tenth is the latest album release from Davina and The Vagabonds. This live album captures the sites and sounds of speakeasies in the Prohibition Era. This toe tapping band consists of Davina Sowers on lead vocals, piano and ukulele, Zack Lozier on trumpet and vocals, Steve Rogness on trombone and vocals, Connor McRae Hammergren on drums and vocals and last but certainly not least, Matt Blake on the doghouse or better known as the upright bass.
Jam packed with eighteen tracks and running over an hour long, Nicollet and Tenth is the bees knees when it comes to putting a little swing into your summer music collection. The popular 1925 song “5 ft. 2 (Eyes of Blue)” features not only the vocal talent of Sowers, but also showcases her piano skills as she pounds away on the eighty eights. This is sure to be a favorite with fans for years to come! Another classic is the Fats Domino piece “Ain’t That A Shame,” that will have listeners hoofing into the wee hours of the night!
Other tracks we liked were “Shake That Thing,” which features sweet harmony between Sowers and bassist Matt Blake. Trumpeter Zack Lozier also solos here, favoring us with his amazing talent. “Sunshine” takes it down a notch with it’s slow beat, warming our spirits from head to toe. Folks will be slapping their knees before they know it. Another familiar tune is the Etta James standard, “I’d Rather Go Blind.” This will certainly have anyone who listens swaying from side to side. Ms. James would be proud of Sower’s version of this popular song.
There is no question that Davina and The Vagabonds captures the sounds of the roaring twenties. Guys and dolls would be feelin’ blue if they didn’t add this to their music collection. Nicollet and Tenth truly hits on all sixes and is a must for any music lover!
