"September" (EW&F Cover) by Leonid & Friends, Reaction/Analysis by Musician/Producer

[@lonniestrickland6665]

As a musician I can tell you, when you have that kind of Jam going it's very hard to stop.

[@StrateleStudios]

For sure!

[@naknaksdadn572]

I am a trumpet player and of course i am biased for the horn line! But Igor, Igor the drummer! My gosh he is a machine! Absolutely love that guy!

[@CoRektOh]

He has such an casual grace about him. Just cool.

[@lizard944]

Trumpet player here, also. Drummer is so solid. I bet he goes through a set of crash cymbals per week...LOL

[@Allright21]

These people are as nice as they are talented. Saw them twice in Michigan.

[@meinkapu9899]

this group restores my faith in humanity.

[@donnewton415]

"Politics aside . . ." Exactly this. Leonid's group have been embraced by the world, not only because of their superior musicianship, but they came out publicly to support Sergei in the Ukraine when things went to pieces. In addition, when you see them live, the absolute joy they impart to the audience is returned to them, seemingly in every venue they play. That humanity gives one hope for the future. As others have suggested, the Lexington Lab Band is absolutely worth the look. There is something in the water in Kentucky that makes those guys stellar musicians. Please keep doing what you're doing, your viewing public has become addicted. No mention of Andy Warhol on cowbell? We need more cowbell!

[@StrateleStudios]

Hahaha believe me I was thinking of Andy Warhol the whole time, but I don’t wanna bias people. 😂🤣😂

[@thewey]

I financially supported Sergei in Ukraine when he was unable to attend because of the war. I PRAY that God brings them ALL back together after this terrible unnecessary war. GOD BLESS ALL Leonid & Friends!

[@thewey]

JEFF! You MUST go to one of their LIVE performances! AWESOME! You'll scream with JOY when you sing along with them at one of their concerts.

[@jeffreyjacobs390]

Yes ! Seems you are right. I am needing to get to a HOME FREE concert before Austin Brown leaves the group ... do you know them ? Incredible vocal group (A Capella) GBjj

[@kurtjohnson4816]

Leonid is clearly a brilliant arranger, engineer, and btw, also a great bassist. But it's astonishing to me how he has been able to collect this incredible breadth of musicians and singers, mostly Russian/Ukranian, to recreate these classic American masterpieces. I've listened to every one, and they NEVER EVER miss; no matter how complex and difficult the material. There are several performers among this group who might have been major stars in the U.S. and/or UK. Hoping I'll have a chance to see their live tour soon. I just hope that the Kremlin doesn't clamp down on them. We should also take a moment to appreciate the incredible brilliance of Chicago, EW&F, etc. who wrote and performed this amazing music.

[@wcull1959]

Wonderful song and they did it superbly, there is even a video that someone did a side-by-side of the two of them together and it's almost identical. Also in their live shows which I have now been to six, this is their closing song that they get everybody up to dance to at every show.

[@dbcanada]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZO5i5-QZ8uborM

[@rickstadel5285]

. . as well they should . . !

[@josevi5835]

Incredible band! Strings and horn section make the difference.

[@MrDarkMagnus]

I got to see them 7:48 up here in NH. They are great performers as well. They are soldiers of music and peace.

[@deeglencairn2598]

we already know how awesome this band is Jeff they can even make a cowbell sound great! Let’s hope they put out another song real soon as they are off the planet. Love your passion for great music 👌

[@ericmcdowell5762]

You know, EW&F never had a yellow t-shirt that looked so good !!

[@rickstadel5285]

The woman is a goddess . . ! And E W F was all fellers, as I recall . .

[@drbcrb]

There was a female vocalist

[@brianritter7698]

I'm 63: and Russian women didn't look like that when I was growing up

[@ericmcdowell5762]

I know what you mean, ... a lot of photos I remember were of elderly women in Siberia, ... wrapped up in about 10 layers of clothing.

[@gregdcross]

She not only looks fantastic and has an amazing voice, she speaks 8 languages; Russian, Chinese, English, Italian, Armenian, Kazakh, Bulgarian and French.

[@Hugger619]

Thanks!

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you! 🫶🫶🫶

[@jimwilliams4599]

An earlier video..just as good a all the others..this band is platinum...😀💥☝🌹🌺🌻🌼🌷

[@kimk.4710]

I have been waiting for you to do another LnF cover! Thank you! These guys are GOLD!

[@dotlund1096]

I’ve been anxiously awaiting too! Just think...we’ve got about 50 more videos to watch!! I’ve seen these reviews too many times. When ya wake up at 3:30 am singing “we can make it happen,” every night for a week, it’s time to watch something else. 😂

[@valerielynn7256]

Ty for your reaction Leonid and friends are so amazing I hope u can do I’ve been searching or your the inspiration both Chicago covers at some point I believe you would really enjoy both of them ty

[@janicemartin2016]

Leonid and friends are the best. I love how they have revived the music of my youth.

[@philippepiveron4937]

Jeff, you are the creator and Maestro of this beautiful channel! Do things the way you feel, at your own pace. If I made PayPal donations it is to share the music that I love with you and all the faithful of Stratele Studio. I don't expect you to broadcast my suggestions quickly, but whenever it suits you. In addition, for my part, I really like discovering the proposals of others and thanks to you, thanks to them, I have already made some great discoveries. So thank you for everything, Jeff, thank you a thousand times!

[@erik1836]

Exactly my thoughts as well. See my comment of a moment ago; I think you will feel it is in keeping with your feelings.

[@StrateleStudios]

You, my dear friend, have made my day! I appreciate you so very much! 🫶🫶🫶

[@lisedonsgrnning6518]

🫶🏼🫶🏼🫶🏼💜🌈💚🌱🤗

[@davidbrownstein1464]

The band got to see a recent EW&F concert and got to meet many members of the band afterwards!

[@delaro1967]

I really like your channel! I saw Leonid and Friends in Los Angeles on January 11, 12, and 13 of 2019. It was their second, third, and fourth shows in the U.S. The locale, Village Studios, only held 170 people maximum. Nowadays, they play to thousands of people in a single show. My experience seems to me a little like what someone would have experienced seeing The Beatles at The Cavern Club.

[@gindie1]

I saw them 2 days later in suburban Chicago at a small venue called Joe's Live.

[@keithdrewv1161]

Great stuff as always Jeff. Can't thank you enough for your videos and insights on these phenomenal musicians! Looking forward to the next one!

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you! More to come!

[@jerrera45]

I am so totally awed by the musicianship of this group. I get goosebumps every time I listen to them.

[@MC-ys3sq]

It's a tribute to those musician's professionalism that they could keep playing with Ksenia cavorting in the same room

[@jaketysmajr2826]

Absolute perfection Jeff

[@Promotion06]

You will also love HSCC (Hindley Street Country Club) from Australia, who are also a group of singers and musicians who do covers and have won a contract to tour the states. Definitely worth a listen

[@rickstadel5285]

I hope HSCC gets to Kansas City . . I'll show ! !

[@crazyworldoccupant7386]

Sergey Kashirin, no longer a member, is so darn talented.

[@RobertMacCready]

Does anyone know how he's doing? Thought he was Ukranian and was caught up in the war with Russia.

[@josiejohnson1575]

​​​@@RobertMacCreadyNo, it is the other Serge ( Tiagnyriadno) who sang the Peter Cetera parts and sometimes plays guitar in the videos who is from Ukraine . He is very talented too.

[@davidlevine1697]

have you seen his channel and listened to his own music??

[@jenniferkosco6628]

​@@davidlevine1697 No, could you please share. And thank you

[@larrytate4586]

Sergey left the group to persue his career writing and producing music for movies and television in Russia.

[@ndpd11]

I really enjoy your reactions to this group. And don't you just love the smiles of the violinists as they play?

[@StrateleStudios]

Yes, love that too!

[@erik1836]

The type of joie de vivre, camaraderie and no holds barred dedication Leonid and Friends evidences is the ideal all of us should strive to bring into being in our own lives; as well as encourage for all humanity as the "the" goal. Would that all of us could experience such oneness with our work as well as with those with whom we work!

[@patrickhill8748]

Great song!! When they first posted this to KZbin they did split screen with EW&F, it was so perfect it would make you cry.

[@synchronistory]

Music heals ... and it doesn't care what nationality or religion one is. This song is out-of-this-world - and Leonid & Friends keep spreading their out-of-this-world friendliness vibe across the worldwide divide. 🎶

[@artosborne]

Remember Leonid transcribed every note from the original track. As an arranger that’s tuff. It’s easier to arrange your own piece than trying to transcribe someone else’s arrangement. Then he plays the Bass. And by the way he’s originally a piano player.

[@Jim-wc3kz]

These guys are the bomb. Pouring out a big blast of FUNK.

[@Enid2Sacramento]

Best September cover... ever.

[@vegaswillie]

This is definitely one of their absolute best. The attention to detail is off the chart.

[@jeffreyjacobs390]

I have loved their style, accuracy and respect for replicating GREAT AMERICAN ROCK / POP Music . Here is no exception ... they have to be that good, and sing it in English ... when few are more than barely fluent beyond Russian language !!! GBjj

[@ThomasAndersson-rl7ij]

Maybe I`m getting old, but when I listen to the songs played on the radio every day, it`s like I loose the will to live. But when I´m listen to songs like this, I´m just sitting here with a big fat smile on my face and I`m so glad to be alive.

[@StrateleStudios]

👏👏👏

[@ThomasAndersson-rl7ij]

Thank you for your reply. You have good musical taste and I really enjoy listening to your inputs and reactions.I finally got out of the Dirty loops rabbithole...but I guess I will fall back in it again. Have listen to all your reactions countless of times.Bear with my english, I usually speak swedish.

[@StrateleStudios]

@@ThomasAndersson-rl7ij your English is perfect!

[@ThomasAndersson-rl7ij]

@@StrateleStudios Tack så mycket!...means, Thank you very much!

[@richyz01]

There are 3 fantasic tribute bands. Lexington Lab Band LLB, Hindley Street Country Club HSCC. Only one that plays all over the US. Leonid & Friends. They are special. They sound the same live as in the Studio!😁

[@lindabergman3127]

Love them❤❤❤❤

[@lindabergman3127]

Lexington lab band are fantastic too❤❤❤❤

[@patrickray8777]

Absolutely incredible! I expect nothing less from them at this point. Unreal!

[@ruckus48]

Leonid & Friends' cover is actually more precise than the original. And not only is Leonid a great arranger and musician, but he's one of the best, if not THE best producers I've ever heard. His ability to make every instrument and vocal clearly heard in the mix, but still blend, is unmatched.

[@LarryWascak]

Look at all the smiling going on in the string section... AWESOME!!!

[@Itsjandz105]

Superb!

[@scottlarsen7366]

They DO bring joy! I love them all

[@robertshin1281]

Oh the JOY!, I've followed this cover band for years and they're just so good. EWF & Chicago have to feel honored at not only the quality but the musicianship of these covers, layer on the fact that many of these performances were put together "by ear" it just blows me away every time I hear them. It's great reliving my youth and the ear-to-ear smile is just icing on the cake.

[@benarmentano3799]

Youre going to LOVE how they cover "Introduction" by Chicago Jeff!

[@StrateleStudios]

Can’t wait!

[@scottward7813]

They deliver live! Stunningly good!

[@jimwebster7317]

One of my favorites!!! Wow Jeff up to 33 thousand now. So happy for you. :))

[@rustytrotter1677]

Love your commentary and thoughts on all your reaction/reviews/analysis. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with music!

[@StrateleStudios]

@@rustytrotter1677 Thank you! 😊😊😊🫶

[@sdanjohn]

Love your reactions. These guys are amazing. Got to see them live a few years ago.

[@santiagososa4980]

Exelentes músicos y cantantes, mejor que el original. Salu2 dsd San Luis, Argentina 🇦🇷🇦🇷🇦🇷

[@CarolynStewart-v5q]

Jeff, like it's been said before, Leonid and Friends are a tribute band, not a cover band. They are perfection because of their ability to honor the original song, not copy it. All musicians are the utmost professionals. Bravo to them!

[@peterg219]

Too good for these ears, wish I had my headphones right now, damn it! I'd run that by me one more time. Nice pick whomever, good choice Jeff & Jeff comments. It is Jeff? Jeff? I reran that again without the phones. Where did I put my head phones?

[@StrateleStudios]

😂👏👏👏🫶

[@glenturrell4485]

The expression your face says it all! I am in awe of what these guys are able to do. Absolutely Top Drawer! And I echo a previous comment about Igor. He really is excellent and a lesson to us all. Love your clips!!

[@StrateleStudios]

😊😊😊🫶

[@TheoSmith249]

There is a distinctvec trumpet note 'error' in the original. I think around @3:55 . which appears to be fixed. Leonid must have pondered having Andrey splitting a note.... If this performance does not make you feel better ..... such a fan of 'Maie Jaune'.

[@stevenwhitman9870]

This band is Note Perfect!!

[@sketchum1959]

I get chills!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So amazing for one of the most iconic tunes!

[@245194LAC]

These songs take me back to the days of my youth where music was music and talent was there for the listening. Leonid and Friends bring tears of joy to my eyes every time I listen to their amazing talent. What an incredible group of talented artists.

[@martinklaus2203]

This was so much fun!! They are top shelf!!

[@erik1836]

It's easy to see and understand why people are turning to you with so many requests! LOL First of all, let's face it - a man - and EVEN an occasional woman (sms)! - can be a master in their respective realms of endeavor because they are their loves - I mentor brilliant young men immigrating to America from here there and everywhere from the back of beyond; write and create art and ain't too shabby at any of them - putting my usually unshakeable, unrenting dedication to humility aside! However, aside from for some unfathomable reason my father insisting I learn to play the accordion as a boy - I could do a mean polka - my expertise re music resides in the realm of listening, and I will never in this lifetime - maybe the next incarnation - master anything related to it. So, given that your format is really pleasant and inviting; your reactions insightful - and oft delightful and make us smile whilst imparting wisdom we don't have but enjoy knowing? It is no surprise that if someone has a favorite song that they turn to someone whom they feel will be able to appreciate it too, with them and help them understand some of the underpinnings of why that song is so special to both them and you and likely the rest of we "unwashed listening masses". "I'll be back."

[@StrateleStudios]

You’re killing me with this comment! 🥹 Your kind words have served to give me the joy and energy needed to continue the efforts of running this channel. It really means a lot to me. My deepest thanks! 🫶

[@lisedonsgrnning6518]

🥹🫶🏼🥰💚🌱🌱🌱🌱🤗

[@erik1836]

@@StrateleStudios You are very welcome, Jeff. Have Leonid and Friends done Bookie Nights yet to your knowledge? That is my favorite of all out of Earth Wind and Fire's wonderful panoply of joyful, uplifting works. It was used as the opening accompaniment to the movie, The Intouchables (NOT to be confused with the UN-touchables) and also again well into the movie as one of the most wonderful scenes. You are in for a treat - here's a compilation of scenes from the movie that may give you a little hint of what it is about! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJqQmHuVrr2dfdEsi=H7zNX85mj0T9pb4g The Intouchables, is a French movie with subtitles that in 2012 became THE movie essentially of France that year. It stars Omar Sy (who is currently starring in Netflix's series Lupin). Omar is a TRUE movie star - cut from the same cloth as all the great ones of the past that, when he is on-screen - you can barely take your eyes off of him because he is THAT charismatic, powerfully emotionally and physically attractive - and, without needing - nor even thinking to ask for proof? You just know he is totally and truly nice and kind - the type of person anyone would welcome and be proud to call their friend. The Intouchables, along with Second Hand Lions and the South Korean masterpiece Keys to the Heart 2018 version (not to be confused with the, I hear, disappointing remake with Kevin Hart, nor the Philippine knockoff) are among my all-time favorite movies. People lacking in true creativity copy the genius of others - think Disney and its insufferable, WOKEIFIED plethora of deplorable remakes of remakes. Anyway, Keys to the Heart is centered around a young Korean man around 22, who is a musical savant on the piano. Pretty soon, you are not going to believe me when I tell you that I am the cold-blooded tyrant that I am. Keys to the Heart: at the 0.58 second mark begins perhaps the most telling scene. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJq0qnRvl7J7oMUsi=iMQpLJhFhGMd9OOT

[@betopaviani]

Impossível ver esses vídeos e não chorar, principalmente para músicos que tocaram essas músicas como eu, e muitos.

[@rickderby8438]

LOVE Leonid's bell bottoms!!!!!

[@mochs3869]

Another one they knock out of the park is Chicago's "You're The Inspiration"..give that one a listen.

[@mgalego4729]

Don't forget to check out "Lexington Lab Band" too. "Leonid & Friends" and "LLB" are the best tribute/cover bands IMO.

[@Hettepop]

totally agree.. HSCC from Australia are pretty good, too. as are Foxes and Fossils.

[@TimSmith-uc4pk]

The young lady was doing an awesome job

[@CarolynStewart-v5q]

Jeff, are you in contact with Leonid? Could you see them cover Roll With It by Steve Winwood? That song is right in their wheelhouse!

[@protax02ray]

FBA MUSIC IS MAGICAL. ❤

[@tomoday4450]

Absolutely perfection brother 👍🏻🤣

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you! Cheers!

[@daninglish7067]

Perhaps you’ll tell us when you’ve made it to their next West Coast show tour? You think you’re impressed now…

[@rickstadel5285]

Oh, yeah, baby -- catching them live will blow every gasket you have . ! . !

[@StrateleStudios]

I’ll be there!

[@mikaelsehlstedt1105]

Soo good

[@Jonathan-iq3sg]

I'd love to see these guys cover. Play that funky music by Wild Cherry.

[@matto9734]

The guitarist clearly got a crush on Ksenia and it´s for her voice, right?! ;-) And again that Moscow Kiev insert - I love that!

[@StrateleStudios]

😂

[@janicemartin2016]

❤❤❤

[@carldodge8294]

perfection

[@peteabrh-fairest9463]

The days when bands actually wrote complex musical scores have unfortunately gone. This is an iconic track, beautifully replicated by Leonid. Absolute perfection. I love it!!! Happy music...

[@robertbrent5356]

If you dig percussion, check out Leonid & Friends cover of Chicago’s “I’m a Man”. Get ready to have your mind blown!!

[@GeirBordalen]

Don´t really want to praise anyone - because they are all brilliant! But Ksenia´s vocals is pure gold!

[@N4TCM]

Look up the Behind the Music video of Leonid & Friends. Shows how the worldwide phenomenon got started.

[@occ4l]

If a song can make Russians smile like that...

[@jojojam6012]

May we, the humble public, request a review? I love your admiration for Voces 8, and would like you to listen to a singer from the Faroe Islands, Eivor. She is not an opera singer but her voice soars up to heavenly realms. Check out Falling Free from Live in Torshavn.

[@StrateleStudios]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/kJ-woo2ZZZuUr8Usi=EZ4ffdq7Fj4FyJW3

[@jojojam6012]

I should have known! I don't think she is like Kate Bush, at least, occasionally her voice. Glad you liked it.

[@DaveyL1954]

Simply Perfection. (Needs more cowbell.......SNL joke)

[@StrateleStudios]

😄

[@Eloso3135]

When I listen to Leonid & Friends I’m not 63….I’m 16 again

[@StrateleStudios]

Me too!

[@bobbyg7102]

Jeff, you should check out their cover of Deep Purple"s Stormbringer.

[@genemccreary3045]

Even the Russians have soul

[@vegaswillie]

Yellow has never looked better.

[@williamjamesrapp7356]

Of course this is in a studio but THEY ALWAYS ***NAIL*** their covers

[@mikek2218]

Once again, they do Earth Wind and Fire, better than Earth Wind and Fire! How is that possible? These guys have become one of my all time favorite groups.

[@scottyahney8565]

horns could have been brought up a bit !

[@joes2514]

The original EW&F "studio" recording has more than a few SOUR horn notes. Leonid & Friends hit every note on pitch. I was wondering if they would mimic the original or perform it "correctly". September came out when I was a kid and even then I thought it was so strange the record label would release it with so many sour notes. Today, I still cringe. I love their music, I just could never get over their lack of precision for a studio cut. It must have been released 5pm on a Friday.

[@StrateleStudios]

Ok the last sentence busted me up 😄👏👏👏

[@ronechols]

Check the Lexington Lab Band if you haven’t already. They’re doing some awesome stuff!

[@craigrik2699]

Not being political but without the Soviet Union, education and culture was a major driver within the society, hence why there are many many more citizens today, in Russia, who have all these opportunities. Never the majority under the Tzars ... but, not being political, great Russian comrades playing music ...

[@rachmann516]

The singer and lead guitarist is no longer with them. He was good.

[@philblack52]

Two Serges-one cant leave Ukraine due to govt regs requiring men of his age to be avail for conscription, the other, a Russian chose to stay in Russia and not tour because of his young family and his desire to move on to other projects, I believe.