In a local sense, the term “supergroup” can mean a lot of things. But often times it’s an easy term for when a group of musicians who each used to be in different bands come together for a new project where their individual talents assemble for a fresh new sound. You’ll also hear “supergroup” tossed around when three of the best musicians in one particular city or state start a mind blowing music project. That can can be said about Newport jazzy surf-rock act The Z-Boys, and their brand new self-titled EP that’s being premiered on Vanyaland today.
The trio consists of Greg Burgess (ex-guitarist of The Amazing Royal Crowns and Joe Fletcher & The Wrong Reasons), Ziggy Coffey (former drummer of Balam and current sticksman for Sweet Heat) and bassist Amato Zinno (who has played with nearly everyone in the folk and jazz scenes in Rhode Island.) They’re each highly regarded by their peers and to listen to them play music together is truly something special. Burgess continuously shows why he’s one of the best guitarists in the Ocean State by alternating between smooth tones and explosive riffs with ease. Coffey and Zinno are a dream of a rhythm section that solidifies The Z-Boys’ sound.
A great example of Burgess’ smooth explosiveness on his six-string is “Emily”. It’s a track with a romantic vibe and an energetic beat that’s contagious. Another song that got some grit to it is “Boogaloo”, it’s raw and straight up nasty while exuding a plethora of funky notes. The only track on the EP that has Burgess crooning on vocals is “Josephine”. It’s a love story, an ode to a lovely lady and it’s the closest thing to a ballad The Z-Boys have in their repertoire.
The Z-Boys will be celebrating the release of their debut EP tonight (September 23) at the Columbus Theatre nestled within Providence’s west end. Joining them on stage will be blues vagabonds Cannibal Ramblers and alt-funk jam whizkids Northeast Traffic. With a bill like that, it’s a guarantee there will be dancing going on within the seats of the theatre’s upstairs stage. It’ll also be a chance to see some stellar guitar playing because along with Burgess, Mark Milloff from Cannibal Ramblers and Alex Claros from Northeast Traffic got some mean chops as well. Until the show, give a listen to The Z-Boys’ debut at the link below and enjoy.
