We reviewed the first album by this Southern Ontario band of veterans last issue and we were anticipating covering this live set thanks to the Groove Project’s rep. for being a total live party band experience. They are a well-oiled machine that conveys the “let’s have some fun…” credo with mucho aplomb and one has to sit back and give these guys repeat listenings as the level of talent/energy combined is actually quite startling. The horn section of Russ Strathdee (tenor/baritone), Paul Robillard (trumpet), John Shand (alto) is very punchy, tight and impressive and I could see these guys offering out their services a la White Trash Horns. I see lead vocals are portioned out between Buttery (guitar), Charlie Hinkel (bass) and Shand (sax/guitar) and I can’t tell who is who, but all tracks sound better than fine. Buttery’s guitar work as usual, is schooled and tasteful, playing just the right stuff in a strong support role, propelling each tune onward. “Life is Like That” is perhaps the best example with a mean slide guitar from Buttery. Wayne Buttery and The Groove Project are obviously one of the best live Canadian Blues party bands and if you want to have an instant bash or a souvenir of one this disc delivers a truckload of good time energy performed tight and funky. 4 bottles for a treat and a testament from Wayne and The Boys. By the time you read this they’ll have picked up a few thousand more “fans-for-life” at various festivals.-Real Blues / September Issue 2004
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