This is a live album that was recorded at the Cornerstone Music Festival during the summer of 2002. The tunes performed during the set were a mixture of Ping numbers and tunes from Jeff's former {bands Farewell to Juliet and Sunny Day Roses. For those not familiar with Jeff's material, the best way that I can describe it is to say that it is spunky. Now, I'm not being facetious, this is a good rock band playing some {hook-laden} tunes that will have you tapping your feet and wanting to sing along in no time. This is the type of music that makes me want to get out on the highway with the top down on the convertible and crank the stereo up to about 9.5 on the volume control.
The group that played at C'stone for the recording of this project was a ten piece band and all of the players and singers are top-notch artists. Jeff acts as a guitar technician for some of the best bands at the festival, but it is within the context of band leader that he really shines forth. Whether acting as a tech or a sideman, Jeff Elbel is an artist who deserves to be heard. As I sit here writing this review and listening to the album, I am reminded again of just what a great live band this group is. Special note needs to be taken of John Bretzlaff on lead guitar and Bernie Maubon and Emily Randle on violins. The more I hear this album the more I want to go back to Cornerstone to see them again. Oh, well, it's only eleven more months. You can learn more about this amazing band at www.marathonrecords.com. Be sure to check them out.
5 tocks
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth October 2003Reviewed by Shari LloydHard to believe this band only plays together once a year. They sound so competent and comfortable with the music, They are definitely more than a solo band of Jeff Elbel. The guitar sounds are masterfully played with funky riffs. Elbel is in fine voice. This is as fresh and exciting as anything Elbel may dream up in the studio. It's a shame we don't hear more from this band. It does may I wish…The Phantom Tollbooth October 2003Reviewed by Alex KlagesIf the point behind releasing first an acoustic and then a live album is to redirect people away from asking where the real album is, Jeff Elbel and Ping are doing an excellent job of keeping their public satisfied and their questions to the minimum. The second official Ping release, this time an album with proceeds going to Habitat For Humanity (and if you have no other reason to buy this album,…Similar sounding releases
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