"Make Me Smile" (Chicago Cover) by Leonid & Friends, Reaction/Analysis by Musician/Producer

[@ThomasAndersson-rl7ij]

I just realized that I`m not listening to Chicago, but Leonid and his band.

[@johnnyseg754]

This group is beyond words....

[@Trapper50cal]

It's so hard to beat watching a reaction to Leonid & Friends by someone who knows what they are talking about and what they are hearing in an educated way.

[@BakerStudiosIndy]

As an up and coming teenage rock drummer from the Chicago suburbs, Danny Seraphine was my inspiration and mentor. It was Danny that pointed me toward Leonid and Friends, effectively passing the torch to Igor... Who is a precise as any I've ever known. In my fantasy band, I'd grab Sergey Kashirin over Joe Bonamassa any day... His lead work is beyond epic, and his vocal chops are first rate as well. Don't get me started on the horns... All the horns. And Ksenia... What can be said about Ksenia? 😍 And Serge is truly amazing, as is Vasily. How on earth did Leonid collect such an amazing group of musicians? And people of such good character as well. And the newer members are first rate as well... Particularly Danny Buranov who is one of the most talented musicians and actors to ever come out of Russia. And then there is Leonid himself... A maestro in every sense of the word. I've said it before... If a few years ago, you'd have told me there was a group of musicians this talented and capable, I'd have said you were nuts.

[@Noworries555justdreams]

The level of talent in this band is unparalleled in any tribute band today. The essence in which they capture this and every song borders on Wizardry. I love this band to death. Leonid is a musical genius in his own right. I cant wait until they get the recognition they truly deserve. Would love to hear more original stuff from them but really who has the time. Thanks for showcasing my favorite band. I've seen them a few times in concert and they are always so humble and kind during meet and greet. Some band members were impacted by the war in Ukraine and are no longer with the band. But they have made it work. They have risen to the call of spreading their love of music despite the situation. There are more things that bind us than divide us. Leonid and friends are dedicated to making music meaningful by touching our very souls with these classic songs from our youth.. Music transcends all borders. Jeff, find the interview on KZbin where Leonid tells how he discovered his love of music, especially Chicago, despite living in communist Russian as a teen. You cant help but be humbled and grateful at the same time. If there's a will there's a way. ❤

[@jahl14]

Igor is a machine!!

[@mbt1955]

His name is Igor because he's a monster.

[@StrateleStudios]

😆

[@mbt1955]

@@StrateleStudios To answer your question on another short clip you did: You asked what was the first live concert we subscribers attended. My first concert was The Monkees in 1968. I still have the program. Yep, I'm a music nerd.

[@mgalego4729]

We can see they really enjoy playing and singing! Leonid was lipsyncing the trumpet session. They put smiles in my face, every time.

[@helenroache1030]

I just love this band...I was gutted when I couldn't get tickets to see them while I was on holiday in California. I live in New Zealand so am grateful I can keep up with all that they do through you...Thank you and have a great day. Helen ❤️

[@steve-qe1sv]

I’ll say it again, Leonid- genius, Igor- machine

[@StrateleStudios]

👏👏👏

[@ericmcdowell5762]

This is one of the first videos they created, ... a few years ago.

[@imwteach]

This was an early rendition as most of the musicians have changed and yet the quality just keeps getting better. Seen them 3 times in concert and they are even better in person!

[@BibleResearchTools]

Several in the band are multi-talented. Leonid plays bass and piano; the singer from Kiev plays guitar and synthesizer; and the 2nd lead singer in this song plays guitar. Dan

[@paulkirkegaard1872]

so eager to see them in Charleston next spring!

[@daninglish7067]

You think they’re good hear? You just wait! Do the “meet and greet” afterwards and they are not just amazing Musicians, they are all amazing people as well!

[@dotlund1096]

Love this base guy too. He rocks.

[@jwandhistools]

Best one yet. Those vocals.....oh my.

[@larrybailey426]

Video dated 21 Mar 2015 - an early tribute video - the original "Friends" - confession : they came to Gilbert. AZ in 2019 and I said "a cover band is not as good as the original" so I did not go to the concert; later I stumbled on one of their videos "25 or6 to 4" by accident looking for Chicago - two bars in I said "What's,this!!!" and have been hooked ever since. I saw them the next time they came to Arizona. For those who have not or been unable to see their concerts - they are out there on YT. Their Holiday Concert Stream; dated 25 Dec 2020, was their gift to the World. Thanks for the great reviews and spreading the word. That's all for now.

[@davidbrownstein1464]

Too bad you missed their 2019 Gilbert show. I was there and they sang Happy Birthday to me! I've been to their other Gilbert shows (as well as 37 others). The Gilbert venue says they will bring them back in 2024 but of course it's too early for any info. See you there! 😁

[@vansmack4972]

Yes I agree that Christmas concert was fantastic. They did it live too.

[@rickbowman21]

My favorite Chicago song - done perfectly! Love them!

[@doplinger1]

I want to point out how great the video production for their videos - well done!

[@barryanderson3910]

It contributes greatly to the overall appreciation of the performance by showing how enthused they are.

[@rickstadel5285]

. . and don't forget about the AUDIO production! NObody has done it better . . Love these amazing folks!

[@dbcanada]

Thanks, Jeff. Great song; perfect cover. ♥

[@jimbizness3864]

You are so right that that they must love the music. It shows and makes them so lovable for us! They play it like they mean it. That horn section is comprised of studio players used on the first few recordings. None of them have toured with the band. Leonid is a genius.

[@SPohl-zy4rz]

Yes, I've always wondered what happened to Alexandr Michurin on trombone.

[@mikesed860]

I've always say that they are even better than Chicago, and that's the best compliment I could give them.

[@ndpd11]

Well said, Sir! I really truly enjoy your reviews of Leonid and Friends. Yes, other than Chicago itself, "the best"!

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you kindly! 🎊🎉🫶

[@debbicozart7130]

Good morning Jeff! What a way to wake up! Leonid and friends and you. Thanks Jeff 😊❤😊❤😊❤😊

[@StrateleStudios]

Debbi!!!!! Wasn’t that great?!

[@debbicozart7130]

@@StrateleStudios hell yes! It was a great morning . Snow, coffee and Leonid and friends. It's the little things in life that makes the world go around.

[@keithdrewv1161]

Such a great way to start the weekend. Loved the animated premiere intro, thanks again Jeff for another first class L&F review!!!!

[@StrateleStudios]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@jimwilliams4599]

This is an incredible band....and for all English is their 2nd language! Never get enough of listening and seeing their videos. Leonid is a master of aggregating talent !

[@johnparker3111]

Also at charting the music. He creates all of their charts from listening to the original recordings.

[@Hahirs]

For many of them English is only a language they sing. Just a handful actually can use it in conversation to some extent. Leonid's son Roman is proficient though, he's the band manager.

[@kimk.4710]

even the inflections in their voices are the same as the original. Again, these guys could sing the yellow pages and make it sound phenomenal!

[@hensleyshobbies-doug7761]

Ol' dude hit Terry Kath's part's right on. And Leonid done great on Robert Lambs vocals.

[@tomkarafa8605]

Any friend of Chicago and Leonid & Friends is a friend of mine .

[@jeffreyjacobs390]

Amen to that, Brother !

[@davesanders2325]

Jeff: Thanks for this reaction and analysis. Great job! You are one of my favorite “reactioniers” (which is not an English word lol) As you eluded to, this line-up is from the earlier years. For instance, I believe this horn section never toured the U.S. Boy-wonder lead guitarist/vocalist Sergey Kashirin left L&F 3 years ago in order to pursue new career opportunities. He, together with saxophonist Oleg Kudryavstev, was one of the most prolific members of the group. He had good stage presence and seemed comfortable speaking English. His solo performances on “Make Me Smile” and “25 or 6 to 4” are wonderful tributes to the memory and greatness of Terry Kath (RIP).

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you my friend, Dave! 😊😊😊🫶

[@RickyTaylor-mx1ti]

Pretty much nailed it on the instrumentation

[@dotlund1096]

Good morning….here we go!

[@dotlund1096]

And I was just thinking...it’s perfect that you derive so much enjoyment from these guys...there’s about 30+ more videos that we’ll want you to react to. 😂🥰

[@StrateleStudios]

Bring it! 😆🫶

[@alanreynolds4944]

Brilliant Jeff, love the passion in your reviews enhancing this amazing music. We are privileged to be able to hear Leonid and Friends and I hope one day they will play in the UK just to be able to see them live. Their musicianship is amazing but often ignored is their vocal mastery. Please listen/review Wishing You Were Here, you will see what I mean . Thanks again

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you Alan! 😃🎊🫶

[@roykliffen9674]

It's an older one, sir, but still valid.

[@thierryjulien572]

This cover is impressive ! Isnt'it Jeff ? 😂😂

[@StrateleStudios]

Amazing!!!!

[@davidbrownstein1464]

I've also see the Director's cut of this video. Did you notice Ksenia at the very end applauding? This is usually the 2nd song in their concerts.

[@janiscollette1737]

Actually they opened with it when I saw them a few years back..

[@AndrewKendall71]

Great way to put it all. To be technically proficient is one thing. But to bring the soul of the music....

[@apoole5159]

I’ve seen this group live and I’ve watched every video they’ve made. Many, more than once. My favorite of theirs is “Free”. If you haven’t reviewed it yet, do yourself a favor. Free is a raging bull from beginning to end!

[@mntn5]

I saw this band in their infancy. Came across their videos by accident actually, and shared it with many. Next thing you know they’re touring the states. Saw them 3 times total. I have purchased all their music (iTunes)on my phone, saved all their videos. You’re just scratching the surface with your recent reactions. Call on Me You’re the Inspiration Hard To Say I’m Sorry Feeling Stronger Leonid front and center with Color My World. Incredible harmonies and attention to detail as always. Thanks for bringing this band to the attention to possibly some new fans.

[@StrateleStudios]

Oh man I can’t WAIT for “Feelin’ Stronger Every Day”. One of my all time favs!

[@mntn5]

@@StrateleStudios you are familiar with this song did you realize that in the chorus toward the end they say jumpin Jack flash it’s a gas gas gas. I don’t remember that in the original.Then again they pay attention to detail so they obviously didn’t miss it.

[@brants7131]

I love this band and the fact they have YET to do a 3 or 4 chord song. They are MASTERFUL musicians!

[@tnmoppylaura5476]

Saw them Monday for the second time. Absolutely the best. They love what they’re doing and the audience loves it too!

[@daninglish7067]

We expect to hear from you when you've seen them this coming Fall there on tour. I'd love to hear what you and Leonid choose to talk about!

[@Hettepop]

I’ve been following L&F for years and was blessed to see them in concert about 3 years ago; when I first saw this video, I was amazed that they performed the “extended (FM radio!) “ version, perfectly, note for note! They got my attention and I have looked up every video since then. I know that they went through a couple of personnel changes since I saw them last; but I hope to see them again sometime soon. I bought several CD’s (and a T shirt!) they deserve our support!

[@tomoday4450]

Agreed brother! Just from another planet ❤️👍🏻

[@VickieCarey-qj9mu]

Beyond perfection 🎉

[@jwandhistools]

400 thumbs up.

[@colleenmonfross4283]

FABULOUS!!! Makes me so happy!

[@donnabatroff1674]

Instrumentals were absolutely awesome, the vocals were not quite as crisp. But then, Terry Kath is a hard act to follow! Great job!

[@caprise-music6722]

Always blows my mind! P.S and omg yes! That bass part was insane!

[@Paul-ju5px]

It takes some stones to play Terry Kath's part of the guitar in any Chicago Transit Authority track.

[@erik1836]

Leonid looks great with short hair and he has a wonderful voice. It is a testament to Chicago that after so many years a band as fine as Leonid and Friends chooses to honor them by recreating their many masterpieces - it's a which came first situation - the chick or the egg? Are Leonid and Friends able to "execute with precision and bring the heart and soul of the song - bring it to life in everything they do..." inspired to love their songs because Chicago had such an amazing heart - or is it that Leonid and Friends - having similar hearts and souls and talents - naturally see and feel a kindred spirit with Chicago - and thus want to impart to their works - a revitalization for a new and younger (ignorant of real music? LOL) group of viewers to enjoy!

[@billoneil6594]

Way to go Jeff. Glad you picked this one. I believe this was the 1st song they produced....and a great one. Keep em coming.

[@matto9734]

Wow, this is SO GOOD!!! Everything is tastefully maxed out and those vocals... they are so allowed to cover classics!!! And everything you said Jeff!

[@JackMorrissey-b3s]

Just simply amazing!!! Would love to hear a reaction to Stormbringer. Rox Bros are unbelieveable.

[@razmo21]

Love your videos! Leonid & Friends are unbelievable!!! You're right. To cover something so intricate like this, you can't fake it and you have to love it. I believe they do. Horn players look like they're at Disney World with these songs. Just looks like they are having the time of their lives, as do the rest. Side note: A buddy of mine was an assistant road manager with Chicago in the late 80's/early 90's.

[@jeffreyjacobs390]

My favorite group back in the day - late 60s / 70s & beyond was the CHICAGO TRANSIT AUTHORITY (Chicago) ..... when I first heard this Russian "tribute Band" doing Chicago - I was stunned TO FIND THEM SO JOYFULLY NAILING THE VERY ASPECTS OF VOCALS / INSTRUMENTATION TO PERFECTION ..... I immediately became of fan !!! Nastrovia. GBjj

[@carldodge8294]

perfection

[@peteabrh-fairest9463]

Leonid is a highly accomplished and versatile musician. His musical arrangements are truly exceptional. Given the scarcity of sheet music from Chicago, he frequently composes the score by ear, relying solely on his auditory perception of the tracks. This ensemble undoubtedly ranks among the most gifted musical groups I have had the privilege of experiencing. How they replicate these extremely complex tracks with such precision is almost beyond my ability to comprehend! Love your channel 🙏

[@davidlevine1697]

in a word, authentic. everyone in the band is authentic. ☮❤🙏

[@carldodge8294]

how do u get that many people into such perfection? the lead guitarist

[@daninglish7067]

Sergey Kashirin on lead guitar and vocals as well. Keep in mind, he recreates Terry Kath playing guitar lick for lick, as does their current Lead Guitar Konstantine. Most know of Jimi Hendrix and his guitar skills. Hendrix is quoted as saying Terry Kath was better than him. Jimi met Chicago as they were the Whiskey “House Band” and he took them with him on tour as his Opening Act so he’d certainly know.

[@DavidGlover-s7x]

Another winner from L@F!

[@airlinename2614]

Brilliant!!!

[@edwardsilva821]

A Beast!!!!!!

[@UncleFred100]

Eric’s right…I think this was their first Chicago song like 6-7 year’s ago. You can see Leonid was still a conservative bandleader with a coat and tie…he’s gone full hippie over the years…lose and happy for sure!👍

[@Hettepop]

Leonid’s progression reminded me of George Martin working with the Early Beatles 1962-65, to loosening up the jacket and tie in the 1966-70 Beatles era.,

[@toddcurry3448]

I know.....I can’t believe it either....

[@dennismcpeek9630]

The Best of the Best!! Thank you, Jeff, for your comments on all the bands and singers!

[@StrateleStudios]

My pleasure! Thank you Dennis!

[@jean-philippeperetti8463]

Terry Kath would be very happy hearing this band execute this song, as well as 25 or 6 to 4. Sergey Kashirin would make him proud.

[@mikesch0000]

Oh man, one of the earliest Leonid and Friends covers. This is soooo good, thanks for covering this just loved hearing and seeing it again!

[@gerardmichaud1209]

Great , perfect !!!

[@billdCT97]

How about "I'm a Man" by them. A great older cover

[@scottyahney8565]

FREAKIN RIDICULOUS !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@garysearby9478]

Their performances are equal to or better than the original bands that they cover. Leonid has no access to the original sheet music for all the parts, so he has recreated everyone of these for every song that they perform. He has picked incredible musicians that have been able to recreate the sound of the original bands, and the most amazing thing is...they are Russians singing English tunes and nailing it. How many English musicians could recreate Russian tunes? Always love your reactions, and you are obviously a pro too!

[@StrateleStudios]

They are so amazing! Thank you Gary! 🎉🎊🫶

[@medannylee1]

So good.

[@baileyride]

They are so good! Thanks

[@dalenimz4693]

English is also their second or third language!

[@albertgary7281]

I have been watching your L&F reaction videos and glad that you picked this earlier one. I discovered L&F about 6 years ago following this bassist Dmitry Maximov videos. This guy is something very special. In his collection of videos I played his Chicago bass cover of "Make Me Smile" which then led to a video of his playing with L&F the Chicago "Brand New Love Affair Part 1 and 2," which you owe to yourself a reaction/analysis to. Leonid has taken over playing the bass but thanks to Dmitry I have been hooked on L&F since. If you get a chance to see this band, don't hesitate. You won't regret it.

[@sdmarion9613]

Going to see them in April for the 2nd time and..., I'm taking mom!

[@kevingamble8861]

You should react to their cover of Deep Purple's "Stormbringer" with the Rox Brothers. The guy on guitar plays like Blackmore and sings like Coverdale. He's amazing.

[@jahl14]

Question 67 & 68

[@StrateleStudios]

I will post that one on March 18th

[@geneobrien8270]

Did you find their rendition of Lighthouse's "One Fine Mornin'" yet? It's incredible!

[@StrateleStudios]

Sure did! "One Fine Morning" (Lighthouse Cover) by Leonid & Friends, Reaction/Analysis by Musician/Producer kzbin.info/www/bejne/rXrNpHRne6eMh5o

[@paulbourgeois2877]

Jeff, you need to view Leonid’s first ever video cover of Chicago’s “Brand new love affair”

[@jeremymcmahon3863]

I think this was the second video they did. That bassist only played the first two videos I believe.

[@donalddixon6541]

Very close, but nothing will replace Terry Kath's voice! A fine tribute none the less.

[@richardtodd7295]

F&F! Nothing more needs to be said!

[@gjemd459]

You must listen to the Analogues reproduce Beatles live. It's like George Martin is on stage. I doubt the Beatles could have reproduce their music live like this. Analogues are in the same league with Leonid and Friends

[@StrateleStudios]

Oh wow, I haven’t heard of them. Being a big Beatles fan I’m sure I’d love them!

[@goggy459]

The Analogues are from the Netherlands. Their format may be difficult for your channel in that they reproduce entire albums on stage. Quite a one off phenomenon @@StrateleStudioskzbin.info/www/bejne/gGS5l4ZphLebiqc and the Greatest 5:30 ever recorded in Rock Music kzbin.info/www/bejne/hpzKkqJ9a7eXb9k

[@StrateleStudios]

@@goggy459 it’s worth thinking about though. Might be able to do a series

[@donaldandbecki]

you should do Josh Turner Guitar

[@thomasmurray3920]

Love this except that a later addition to the band (can’t renewer his name off the top of my head, but he does most of the Terry Kath vocals, as well as lead vocals on Vehicle) would have been better for the lead vocal on this.

[@MC-ys3sq]

M.Castanon, I'm sure you'd give your right arm to join them in session. But then you couldn't play..duh

[@StrateleStudios]

😂🤣😂👏👏👏

[@johnkmiec4music]

Why don't you play any actual Chicago songs by Chicago. I was a close friend of Terry Kath. May I suggest song Hollywood. Little heard but excellent .

[@markwukoman6847]

I know I might be late to the party but if haven't checked out the fun video of Kesina doing her rendition of the Stones song Satisfaction. Crazy good!!

[@BFamily-o1z]

You mentioned the awesome bass / here is a link to the solo by Dimitry kzbin.info/www/bejne/aanEXqJ-pd9-hqs&si=yNGnnNYsKmGei6ov Great reaction too!

[@StrateleStudios]

Whaaaaat?! This is awesome! Thank you!

[@TheoSmith249]

How great is that !

[@BFamily-o1z]

I love this song and if you know Rick Beato he did a drill down on the original that is amazing kzbin.info/www/bejne/p3e5oYagh7p3aKcsi=fST8w3dZTWH71NBt