Big Bad Voodoo Daddy knows how to ‘Rattle Them Bones’

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, perhaps the greatest modern interpreters of big band swing, have once again put together an invigorating album of new music and classic songs from the greats of the early 20th century. Less focused than their other efforts, Rattle Them Bones finds a pulsating freedom from track to track. Scotty Morris, band leader and writer on many tunes, speeds things up and enjoys slowing them down just as much. When taken together, these 12 songs are perfection incarnate

The stage is set (or rather the film is set) with “The Adventures of…,” the opening track that features the sound of a cinema projector and old-style movie music. We’ve entered the world of Zoot suits, fedoras, cigarette smoke and jazzy standards.

“Diga Diga Do” is the first proper song, and it’s a winner. Morris uses his smooth vocals to kickstart the spirited tune. The entire nine-piece band (amazingly featuring all original members) fill in the blanks, and the results are positively era-defying. We are simultaneously sucked back to a bygone period, but there’s still a real sense of the present.

“The Jitters” and “Let It Roll Again” continue down the same road, with the latter offering a great call-and-response between  Morris and the band. One of the best tunes is “It Only Took a Kiss,” a sultry love song featuring the exquisite vocals of Meaghan Smith. This song, effortlessly endearing and charming, is what BBVD does best. Sure, there’s much to enjoy in the frenetic big-band style, but sometimes slowing everything down and appreciating individual elements is just as satisfying.

“Devil’s Dance” is the best song on the second half of the album, although there is a number of stellar candidates that could the gold medal. “Gimme That Wine” is particularly fun, while “Still in the Mood” is softer and sweeter.

After adding flavor to some Cab Calloway standards on their last album, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy comes out swinging with Rattle Them Bones. More than anything else, the 12-track album puts a stamp of approval on the band’s legacy. Nearing 20 years in the business, with fond memories of the Super Bowl, Swingers and a nonstop touring schedule, the band still takes the time to give fans a dose of something new, even as it wonderfully pulls from something old.

By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com

• Big Bad Voodoo Daddy

• Rattle Them Bones

• 12 songs

• Rating: