When you love what you do, time seems to fly by. It has been quite a long journey for Professor Louie. Over 50 years as part of the music industry spanning roles as a seasoned live performer, prolific recording artist and versatile multi-instrumentalist. He also wears the hat of award-winning Recording Producer and Engineer, most well known for his work with Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Famers The Band.
His band Professor Louie & The Crowmatix have been performing since the turn of the 21st century and have 17 albums under their belt. The 18th has been released in the form of Crowin’ Around, an album that feels both familiar and refreshingly vibrant with deep roots in the Americana scene. This isn’t a band chasing trends; they’re digging deeper into the rich soil of American musical traditions, and the result is a collection of 11 songs that are warm, inviting, and full of seasoned musicianship.
Professor Louie & The Crowmatix wear their influences proudly. You’ll hear echoes of classic rock, blues, folk, and gospel, all woven together with the band’s own distinctive jam-band sensibility. Professor Louie’s vocals, along with the harmonies from Miss Marie and the rest of the crew (John Platania and Todd Mihan on guitar, Frank Campbell on bass, and Dan Hickey on drums), bring a lived-in quality to the songs, adding layers of organic depth and emotion.
Right from the opener “Elevate Yourself,” the gauntlet is laid down to rise up to all occasions. There is a story and a message within the big sounds. The party is just beginning.
We get jazzy and bluesy with “Too Much Fun.” If you don’t find yourself singing along to the chorus you may want to check your pulse. The musicianship is incredible from piano and guitar solos to fun driving grooves. The style changes on “Monday Boogaloo” but the vibe stays the same. Just enjoy the ride and have fun.
Prepare For ‘Too Much Fun’ With Professor Louie & The Crowmatix
Some elegant covers round out the album including Graham Parker’s “Stick To The Plan” and Bob Dylan’s “Watch The River Flow.” Miss Marie showing off her vocal range and talent on these two tracks in particular.
Professor Louie & The Crowmatix are not about pushing boundaries for the sake of it. It’s about celebrating the enduring power of classic Americana music, played with skill, passion, and a deep sense of connection to the source. Crowin’ Around is an album that feels comfortable and lived-in, like an old friend you can always count on.
The rich expanded Americana sound is truly authentic to the band and delivered with every bit of a seasoned group that has been playing together for a quarter of a century. Professor Louie & The Crowmatix are a testament to the enduring appeal of well-crafted Americana music. Crowin’ Around is an album that celebrates the rich tapestry of these musical traditions, played with skill, heart, and a deep sense of authenticity. This is music that feels both timeless and relevant, and it’s sure to resonate with anyone who appreciates the power of a great song played by a great band.
