The Leah Randazzo Group ~ July 19, 2008 ~ The Blue Note ~ New York, NY

Words and Photos by Joe Koch

My first impression of Leah was that of a clean and sober Amy Winehouse with a hint of Norah Jones.
Many performers instantly remind you of what is familiar. If they are good, it usually takes a week or two for that sound to take on its own identity. Leah's debut record, At the Root, did just that. Now the 23-year-old composer-songstress sounds like herself and no one else. Equally impressive as her record is The Leah Randazzo Group's live show. Even if you stumbled upon her performance, you gravitate toward the stage, moving your feet to the jazz-funked up sounds. Leah sways across the stage with sex appeal, but that appeal is always outshined by her powerful vocals.
Tonight's show was no exception. Leah was taking part in The Late Night Groove Series at the famous Blue Note jazz club in New York City and she was there to deliver.
The room quickly filled as the band took the stage. The North Hampton, Mass., septet started the evening with the song "Higher," a number powered by the three-piece horn section, featuring Andrew Smicker on trumpet.
Within a couple of songs Leah found her groove and a comfort level that allowed her to triumphantly convey her message on "Lesser of Two." She held the attention of everyone in the audience as the band funked and grooved through some familiar and some new, still untitled songs. Never consuming too much of the spotlight, Leah more than once gave the opportunity for her band members to display their gifted talent — Andy Taylor (guitar,) Justin Annis (drums,) Jon Bean (tenor sax,) Paul Olesuk (trombone,) Andrew Smicker (trumpet) and David Picchi (bass.)
Rounding out the night was a spectacular solo by bassist David Picchi, whose authenticity is unmatched. Leah's vocals soared on Jill Scott's "Golden" and then it was over, and back to the sweltering sidewalks of the Big Apple.

For more info go to: www.myspace.com/leahrandazzogroup