King Cake
Reunion Days
The Fizz
“Hoppin’ John Orchestra’s Reunion Days hits the sweet spot between jazz, blues, soul, ska, and swing. From the festive Mardi Gras spirit of “King Cake” to the Latin groove of “El Sueno” to the pop charm of “Hollywood,” this superb album has it all: alluring female vocals, a masterful horn section, pumpin’ piano, and a propulsive rhythm section. It’s addicting!”
– Holly George-Warren
“After a decade in business, this eclectic local band has a long-awaited self-titled CD and seems in prime mood to celebrate. Led by bassist/trombonist/arranger Mike Hood, the 10-piece unit bills itself as “Philly’s only Southern-fried jazz orchestra.” That would seem to entail horns galore and a taste for New Orleans second-line grooves, jump blues, good-time funk, vintage R&B, early jazz and the odd smoky ballad. The CD playlist features a slowed-down “I Hear You Knockin’,” along with Ellington and Charlie Shavers goodies and a helping of Hood’s originals too. With dollops of tuba and banjo and big-band power in a small package, it’s hard not to like.” (D.R.A.)
Philadelphia Weekly 8/1/08