By: Liz Levine
Rating: 10/11

If The London Souls came up on a classic rock mix tape, no one would question their inclusion even for a second, though they’d definitely want to know why this band wasn’t in their collection. Comparable to countless outfits from the 60’s and 70’s, the authenticity these boys pack is astounding, as if they were reared on the sole diet of music festivals, wicked vinyl collections, and ROCK. The raw skill bleeding from the player’s hands would be exciting in any form, and seems insanely natural as the guitar solos with soaring grace and the bass throws in speedy teases where it doesn’t seem like there’d be room. The energy behind it all would make the stiffest party pooper leap from their chair, and thusly the group’s live performances are rumored to be off the hook. As evidence, the live version of rebellious Stones/Hendrix-heavy “Stand Up,” is packed with the hoots and cheers of a very pleased crowd. “Everybody’s Got To Change” evokes CCR through rousing blues rock, and Skynyrd is undeniably present here and in “What You Need,” a beautiful, skyreaching number with soulful harmonies and stellar solos. Kiyoshi Matsuyama (bass, singer), Tash Neal (guitar, singer), and Chris St. Hillaire (drums, singer) might actually be young 20-somethings living in this modern world, but their attitudes, playing style, and even attire would confuse any rock historian. Refreshing in their quest for real, genuine rock ‘n’ roll, and clearly reared on so many of the bands current music fans love to love, The London Souls are destined to bring mind-melting tunes to this generation.