Winslow, currently in writing sessions for its second album, shared a sneak-peek with fans at the Maid Myriad EP release party at Musica in Akron, Ohio on December 4.Given the option between setlist “A” or “B,” the audience selected setlist “B.” The soul-funk ensemble introduced new songs, “Stand up” and “Alone tonight,” demonstrating its versatility and the courage to mix it’s soulful sound with edgier rock riffs and a bit of Latin flair. Before the night’s end, the band slowed the set to play a few ballads and lighter tunes.
No Winslow show fails to be anything less than an auditory and visual treat. Frontman Maurice Martin delivered a chest-thumping performance but--note to the sound guy--his vocals seemed to get drowned out by the instrumental. Nevertheless, the man exudes passion when he sings, crying out every word like it might be his last. The emotion was electric. Resounding, it conducted across the stage. Charlie Trenta embodied the meaning of the phrase “wail on guitar.” Bassist Kevin Robertson and Keyboardist Curtis Tate carried each song on the low plucks of the bass strings and pulse of the keys. Matt Tieman embellished the sound with jazz notes on tenor sax and Mike Watkins held the beat on drums. There is no question why Winslow was nominated for Cleveland’s Best Original Band by fans and Scene Magazine this year.
Winslow was scheduled to open for gospel-R&B artist Robert Randolph & The Family Band at House of Blues in Cleveland, Ohio on Friday, December 10, but the show was postponed. Fans can catch Winslow at Reggie’s Music Joint in Chicago on Saturday, December 11, at 9 p.m. They will be opening for The Congregation.
