Review by Brad Walseth
Hard Logic is a smooth jazz fusion band from Western New York, led by saxophonist Paul DeLoria and keyboardist Greg Gilmore, with guitarist Tony Castronova, bassist Davis Pinto, drummer Chris Dembeyiotis and percussionist/vibist Bob Accurso. All the members are quite talented players and they play very well together in performing the DeLoria/Gilmore-penned tunes. Their overall sound is similar to groups like the L.A. Express, the Rippingtons, FourPlay and Spyra Gyra with a heavy dose of Brecker Brothers funkiness.
"Crudities" starts things off in compelling fashion, with a welcome bit of toughness, while "Redemption" and "Shrivelspork" funks it up in a catchy and energetic manner that should appeal highly to fans of the genre. DeLoria's solos are tasty, while guitarist Castronova adds some burning fretwork. Meanwhile Gilmore centers the sound with an array of keyboard sounds and chops, and his rhythm mates are tight and propulsive in pushing the band forward.
The group doesn't settle for the easy funk route though and songs like "Low Tide" and "All Points South" explore an island sound and a touch of pop. The gospel inspired "Tastebuds" pleases the ear, while "Way Back North" and "Living Wall" of"er the more subdued melodic side. Finally, album finale, "Attack of the Wiener Dogs" ends things on a high energy note that should keep listeners coming back for more.
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