BWW #TBT CD Reviews: Amy Lynn & The Gunshow's DON'T TRIP ON THE GLITTER is a Party in Your Ears

Imagine that ska-era No Doubt had a baby with the soulful divas of 70s disco and their horn sections. That is what Amy Lynn & The Gunshow sounds like. Honestly. I was first introduced to this awesomely raucous group of musical reconnoiters when I caught their late February show at 54 Below. After being blown away by their live performance, I knew I had to get my hands on their album DON'T TRIP ON THE GLITTER, which is just as impressive, catchy, and fun as I expected it to be.

Anytime a true beltress gets to record an album, naturally her voice is the star of the record. Yet, it truly seems that Amy Lynn takes her diva qualities in stride. On every track she proudly displays her talent and showcases the skills she learned from the legends. There is absolutely no denying that her voice is a force to be reckoned with and a true delight on the album, but Amy Lynn skillfully lets her horn section have their moments of glory too. Sure she riffs and wails until our hearts are ready to burst from excitement, but the audience is well acquainted with Alex Hamlin and his pristine slap tongue and melodic harmony skills on the baritone saxophone; Ed RosenBerg III's vibrant tenor saxophone capabilities; Jeff Hermanson's infectious trumpet playing; and Brian Whitted on piano, Ben Gallina on bass, and Michael Vincent Ross on drums abilities to get our toes tapping and our hips swaying by the end of the album as well.

Just like a live performances from Amy Lyn & The Gunshow, DON'T TRIP ON THE GLITTER is filled to overflowing with brassy exuberance and indefatigable energy. With only nine tracks on the album, there is no down time, and there's not a bad apple in the bunch. My personal favorites include the sassy and bitter title track "Don't Trip on the Glitter," which makes excellent use of The Gunshow. "Comin' Up Green" is the kind of uplifting romantic soul song that makes the day glow brighter. Conversely, "West Village Blues" is the kind of catchy yet scornful break-up song that crushes the heart in the best of ways. Vibrant fan favorites "Can't Put My Finger On it" and "Dirty Mouth" are sublimely sensual and layered with thinly veiled sexual innuendos.

Produced by Steve Greenwell, who is also Joss Stones' producer, DON'T TRIP ON THE GLITTER is the kind of upbeat, modern funk album that makes you feel alive. Driving bass rhythms put pep in your step. The blaring horns and soaring melodies encourage carefree dancing and clapping hands. The robust, boisterous vocals grab the attention of our racing hearts. Amy Lynn & The Gunshow's DON'T TRIP ON THE GLITTER is truly a party in your ears.

Amy Lynn & The Gunshow released DON'T TRIP ON THE GLITTER on April 29, 2014. You can purchase the album from CD Baby, iTunes, and Amazon.

Also, be sure to catch Amy Lynn & The Gunshow for their FREE concert at 9:00 p.m. on April 15, 2015 at Rockwood Music Hall Stage 2 (196 Allen Street, New York City, 10002). For more information about this show and Amy Lynn & The Gunshow, please visit http://www.amylynnandthegunshow.com.

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