January 14, 2019. Clarinetist Paul Cosentino’s Boilermaker Jazz Band has been making swinging renditions of jazz gems for over 25 years. I Love the Rhythm In A Riff pays homage to riffs created by well-known bandleaders, and love songs made famous by beloved vocal stars.
With a sound straight out of a swing era dancehall, the Boilermaker Jazz Band keeps the repertoire familiar and the playing tight. The addition of special guest pianist (and a favorite of swing dancers) Gordon Webster adds to the nostalgic, yet energetic, feel of this record. Jennifer McNulty’s vocal stylings contribute to the party vibe on songs like “Any Old Time” and “If You Could See Me Now.” You feel like if you were at a performance of this band there would be a sing-along.
This Pittsburgh-based band travels the country to contribute to swing dance events and tribute concerts, but the players are also instrumental in preserving the Pittsburgh jazz scene. Bassist Tony DePaolis, trombonist Jeff Bush, and drummer Thomas Wendt are regular players and teachers in their region. Luckily, for us, they team up with Paul Cosentino to bring us this piece of Americana that takes us from Neal Hefti to Erskine Hawkins.