......True to the blues tradition, the songs mirror the day-in/day-out adversities we all face....the SkyBlues Band has served the genre well in their first CD, maintaining that must have bass beat so central to the blues, but enriching it with unique contributions from harmonica, lead and rhythum guitars, and drums (Do I hear Gene Krupa in the Shadows?)......
-Tim Kjos, Staff Writer, Detroit Lakes Tribune, Detroit Lakes, MN
The studio recorded CD "Diminished Reality" captures the live energy groove of The SkyBlues Band with a broad range of style and tempo -- from the Chicago jump blues of "Hurtin� You is Killin� Me" to the thoughtful lyrics, gospel blues of "Selfish World" to the roots blues of the title cut to the uniquely original "Up from Below". When The SkyBlues Band comes to a venue nearby, you�ll experience a wide spectrum of the blues, from the originals on this CD to cover songs of over 30 artists -- vintage to contemporary. There�s something for everyone, presented by a group that loves what they do, and they do it well.
-Lori Newman DJ KWAD-KNSP radio, Wadenaa, MN
Concerning your new realease "Strong debut effort with some wonderful self penned songs. The SkyBlues Band should appeal to lovers of the blues, and those who desire a spiritual message in their music. Well done and I'm looking forward to more song writing and performing from this group."
-Rick Floding, owner Sound Shop, Detroiit Lakes, MN
Diminished Reality, the latest effort by the Detroit lakes based SkyBlues Band is a welcome addition to my blues library. The album as a whole is clean without getting the sterilized sound of so many new recordings. The harmonica solo work is technical yet tasteful. The guitar solo on the second track, Cold Cold Feeling, varies in style from delicate to raunchy, with the phrasing of a seasoned storyteller. I am looking forward to their next live show.
-Dale Plasek, music teacher, Wadena, MNN
What I trust you are trying to do is capture the live sound, "this is who the SkyBlues Band is." That I believe you accomplished this very well. I feel like, when I�m listening to the CD I�m hearing you like I would, watching you play in the bars ...... My favorite is "Back Door Belle." Nice Groove to this song, excellent words ...... Steve�s guitar work sounds as good as ever. Reminds me a little bit of early Michael Bloomfield/Paul Butterfield days...... Your audience should have no problem enjoying this CD....
-Mark Johnson, Forerunner Ministries, MMinneapolis, MN
Love the lyrical content, mixed with some good ole blues.
-Tom Nelson, School Counselor, Sebeka, MN
I found the Skyblues Band�s new CD to be immensely listenable and enjoyable. The original work and "covers" of classic blues tunes shows a personal style and professionalism. I would recommend this CD to any blues aficionados as well as worth a listen and as a tantalizing glimpse of hopefully more to come.
-Eric Smemo LICSW PATH Fergus Falls, MNN