Lipbone is the past and a whole new breed of musical performer all at once. Now, Doug E. Fresh and the Fat Boys may have made music using their mouths, beat boxing in the mid-eighties, but Lipbone uses his to makes more distinct music. The sounds he makes are those of a trombone or trumpet. If you didn’t know before, you wouldn’t know while listening. All the horn sounds on Hop The Fence is made by Lipbone’s voice and lips.
Magnificent musical uniqueness aside, the songs on Hop The Fence are a striking combination of music from the past and present; Cab Callaway, Dr. John, Paul Simon and Fats Waller.
It has the feel of world music, New Orleans jazz and Delta soul. The album was recorded live (and in three days) and the feel is loose, yet electric. All those years playing and traveling the world probably helped since it’s evident in the music’s swagger. To be blunt, the album is just cool.
‘Closing Time’ is a funky number where Lipbone sings in a raspy, laid back vocalization. The title is adequate, the energy loose and fleeting. ‘Dogs of Santiago’ recalls Paul Simon, smooth vocals with a funky world music feel. ‘Sixteen Tons’ shows his musical heritage where ‘Hollywood An’ Vine’ is a delight, capturing the essence of a casual slow dance song. The vocals are talkative at first, like a subtle Gil-Scott Heron and then sweetly passionate like Fats Waller. It is laced with elegant guitar and percussion, strutting along like a couple fresh in love.
‘Old Flame’ is a country ride done right, crooning like Ross Bon from The Mighty Blue Kings but without the bass in his voice. It is a tender song ripe for a Saturday afternoon stroll.
Lipbone and his fellow musicians bring our parents and grandparents music into the present while offering it up fresh and new. Hop The Fence isn’t trapped in a particular genre in the way that pigeonholed groups such as Squirrel Nut Zippers or Big Bad Voodoo Daddy in the mid nineties. The album displays not just excellent musicianship but the ability to craft songs that are catchy and timeless.
- Brian Tucker
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