Any novice motor enthusiast would be most familiar with the Corvette Stingray’s first debut in 1953. Later however, circa 1968 Chevrolet released the even more tantalizing Manta Ray Corvette which was by far the most brilliant in its class for many reasons including its magnificent style and precision performance. It is an image most apropos signifying the flamboyant pizzazz and inexplicable sound of The Manta Rays of New England.
The band is comprised mostly of old friends who have appeared in various settings and musical engagements over the years including, David McCormack (guitar & vocals), Eros Lamb (drums & vocals), David Caissie (electric bass), Damon Carter (piano & keyboards), Jael Doughty (vocals), Jem Denis (vocals) and Jim Allard (tenor sax). The band however, was actually formed for the purpose of completing the album entitled Jekyll Island Matinee. While most of the material therein was composed by David McCormack except 'Arizona', by Eros Lamb, all of the aforementioned parties also play essential and dynamic roles in the success and musical accomplishment of Jekyll Island Matinee.
The album is a vehicle that embarks on a journey of intrigue that nurtures and caresses the imagination while deriving candid snapshots of a reality through audible nuances coupled with lyrics that echo times past and present.
The record is riveted with resplendent, shrieking guitar solos throughout (e.g. 'Chicago Typewriter' and 'Sugar Legs') padded by solid driving rhythms. The accompaniment of the sweet, splendiferous voices of Jael Doughty and Jem Denis (sisters with like vocal chords) are like an exuberant blend of songbirds and honeysuckle blossoms in the late of spring. Jim Allard, a well known artist and professor of the reeds and flute, breathes life into 'She's Mine' and 'Beacon Hill Strut' courtesy of his own kind-heartedness for camaraderie’s sake. Damon Carter, another heavy hitter and well-known artist appears on several tracks providing textural depth and colourful hue to the final mix analysis. Eros Lamb is a human time machine with impeccable rhythm and finesse. For a certainty there are countless percussionists who cause the drum to sing in a similar vein as Eros, but oddly none immediately come to mind. The Bass-man, David Caissie is a scientist with his instrument. Dave's bass playing and enthusiasm is oozing with brilliance and dazzling linear melodies and harmonic undertones.
MoonSound Recordings is delighted to initiate the release of Jekyll Island Matinee by The Manta Rays. Produced by David McCormack for MoonSound Recordings.
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