"Superstar" (Carpenters Cover) by Leonid & Friends Reaction/Analysis by Musician/Producer

[@rogerdsmith]

This cover was so well received by Richard Carpenter that he invited Ksenia to his home to have dinner with him and his wife.

[@stratcat3216]

Now that's appreciation!

[@huggybear1996]

Wow! That's big respect.

[@PawtucketPatriot66]

Was never a big fan of much of the Carpenters music, but I always loved this song (even Sonic Youths weird cover). But I will always give Richard props for being a great keyboardist and music arranger.

[@yabadabado7442]

Wow, that is awesome. When I first heard this cover, I wondered how Richard would react to it. It's good to hear that he welcomed Ksenia into his home. She did an amazing job, and it was a great tribute to Karen.

[@markhale3493]

Leonid is the Bass player.

[@bradjames264]

This is THE GREATEST BAND ON THE PLANET RIGHT NOW !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@lindabergman3127]

Agreed100 ❤

[@chazrjr]

They are truly gifted musicians, and singers. NO DOUBT!!

[@mitchellbaxter6314]

I've seen them five times so far, and already have tickets for show #6.

[@deb8415]

Oh, I agree 100%. They are INCREDIBLE!! ♥

[@saxman432004]

Yes

[@roykliffen9674]

This tribute band certainly warrants a deeper dive. They started with music of Chicago, later expanded to Earth, wind & Fire, Blood Sweat & Tears, Ides of March, and then some, each tribute incredibly close to the original.

[@Allright21]

They also covered My Old School by Steely Dan. They are great. I saw them twice!

[@sheepdog457]

Arguably, better than the originals. I have been a huge Chicago fan since I was a pre-teen (late ‘60s). I’ve been blessed to see Leonid and friends twice now. Their superb musicianship never ceases to astound me.

[@DocGreenePrivate]

Better than!

[@Greytdaddy]

I actually prefer Leonid & Friends perform classic Chicago over the current lineup of Chicago.

[@markvaars37]

They are so amazing live!​@@Allright21

[@justabeachbum4456]

This group is the top of the top with everything they do! Phenomenal!

[@lindabergman3127]

They continually amaze me with their beautiful mesmerizing talents🌹🌹🌹🌹

[@Eloso3135]

Leonid and friends are not only master class musicians, they bring a sense of joy to their performances that is infectious. You can’t watch/listen and not feel happy!

[@ALousyGolfer1]

Their Earth, Wind and Fire covers are extraordinary! They sound better than currently Chicago sounds. Ksenia is incredibly gorgeous who is a fantastic singer, too.

[@theflash1425]

I'm a musician of over 50 years and I've been watching Leonid's videos since he started posting them. While all the musicians in his core group, AND the ones he brings in for specific songs, are all really excellent, watch a dozen or so videos and pay close attention to Igor, the drummer. Even when you can't see him, listen for him, because he is one of THE best drummers I've ever heard! His skillset is virtually unlimited. It seems that there's nothing he can't do, and do it fantastically. He is the real deal! Really, they all are, but he's way above the bar. Check out their take on "One Fine Morning!" Wow!

[@swiftmatic]

Igor is a MACHINE. PERFECT timing, EVERY time.

[@theflash1425]

@@swiftmatic Yes, but he's more than that. His attention to detail is incredible as well. I think he one "those" who has tremendous innate ability that seems to easily go above the bar with practice. Most musicians have met people like this. I've stood ten feet from Ginger Baker during a rehearsal in 1969, stood backstage watching Keith Moon at a Who concert in 1970 and watched Mick Fleetwood from the first row at a concert in 1979, and my opinion of Igor is that he is a BEAST!

[@ronnedmunds7935]

You are absolutely correct. Igor is one of the most talented and skilled drummers I have EVER heard! He is the quintessential backbone of a group of extremely talented musicians. I wish more drummers would understand the “More is not necessarily better” concept. I’ve been listening to Leonid and friends for almost 2 years now and my first reaction to experiencing their artistry was very much like yours! I always look forward to their you tube posts and can’t wait to see them in concert.

[@theflash1425]

@@ronnedmunds7935 If you have not watched their cover of "One Fine Morning", paying very close attention to Igor, you really should. Even if you have seen it, you should watch it again because I guarantee you that you missed something. I've probably watched it a dozen or more times and I always find some little Igor gem that I missed before. There is SO much going on in that song, that it's easy to take the drums for granted, but it is a tour de force performance from a master.

[@ronnedmunds7935]

@@theflash1425 Thanks. I have listened L&Fs cover of One Fine Morning many times and you are right; Igor REALLY shines here. So many superlatives come to my mind when I think about how to describe Igor’s playing. I believe the definition of the musical term “In the Pocket” should have links to several of Igor’s performances. Steve Gadd, Buddy Rich, Ed Shaughnessy, Neal Pert and Louie Bellson would most likely all have described Igor’s talent as God Give and God Blessed.

[@michaelhwenig]

Wow, this whole band totally nailed it. Their instrumentation was fantastic. The vocalist was pitch perfect with incredible breath control. 👏 👏 👏

[@rebeccalipps23]

She does well on her breath control, but the timing of each breath is slightly early, especially during the verses. Kesnia seems to use the top of each breath instead of Karen's middle exhalation & then her bottom breath. Karen took small breaths perhaps because she was also playing the drums. I poured over The Carpenter's Greatest Hits album for years & learned each song with the audible breaths in those songs. That study, along with learning to breathe for staged plays & public speaking to sustain notes on short breaths leads me to this HO. It is Leo-nid on the bass, BTW. Leo (as in the astrological sign) nid rhymes with lid. I don't believe they use Leah (as in Laia/Leaha Luke's sister). I adore L& F and have been following them for years. Thank you for reacting to them!

[@michaelhwenig]

Thank you for your perspective. 👍

[@RenRabbitHole]

Ksenia is my celebrity crush 😍 Fluent in a bunch of different languages, amazing voice, and gorgeous. They are known for their Chicago covers, but my favorite song of theirs is their cover of My Old School by Steely Dan. But everything they do is great, not a bad song in the bunch! I enjoyed your reaction!

[@alcambrola2834]

Yes, she's very easy on the eyes and talented to boot.

[@SpideyVids]

I totally agree with you about their version of My Old School. 👍

[@johnholliday5874]

Have not seen My Old School. Will have to search it. Hope there is more Steely Dan. Great catalog for L&F.

[@SPohl-zy4rz]

Listening to this brings tears to my eyes. Carpenters are my all-time favorite group and for Leonid & Friends to cover them (with this exceptional performance) is truly an honor. Thank you for reacting to this.

[@KenMac-ui2vb]

The entire group are flawless but that Ksenia is kind of incredible.

[@philipchin6802]

Brought tears to my eyes..the music and that voice... Karen Carpenter is the Queen...and what an incarnation ❤

[@kmcgarr1]

Their cover of Earth, Wind & Fire’s “Fantasy”. Wow. Incredible. On point with everything, even Phillip Baileys vocals. Very much worth your time to see.

[@naknaksdadn572]

The man behind all of this, the man looking around...is Leonid, the bass player!

[@miltonchavez1262]

This is the best cover of a Carpenter song that I have ever heard in years. Leonid and Friends are setting a very high standard for very accurate covers of songs. Ksenia just nails the vocals. Karen Carpenter has a very unique voice and you cannot fudge. This is just wonderfully done. This tribute band takes covers to a very high standard and their ability to perform...Tower of Power, Chicago, Blood Sweat and Tears, etc. with such accuracy to the original recordings is top notch. This group of performers is as good as it gets and lets not ignore the sound engineers that make the vocal and musical talent magic work so faithfully to the original recordings and then some.

[@georgianalabella7852]

So Beautiful. I Love It. I’m Crying 😢. But This Is Awesomen

[@georgianalabella7852]

So Beautiful. Awesome I Love ❤️ It Pete sr Siny

[@Nancyshank]

This group’s history is fascinating. They started with Chicago covers which are incredible! I’m so excited to see them next month with a meet and greet. Several documentaries about them on KZbin worth checking out.

[@jamesglynn3231]

As a first time viewer of your channel, I loved watching your reactions to this Carpenter’s song. I’ve been a Leonoid fan for 4 years. As a diehard old-school Chicago fan, I am totally blown away how well this Russian group, that’s right, they are from Russia, can replicate any Chicago song, especially “Beginnings” and “Make Me Smile.” You must, must, must listen to their renditions of these 2 songs. I promise to watch!

[@Nancyshank]

@@jamesglynn3231Don’t know if you realized you are replying to my comment instead of posting to general comments. You are “preaching to the choir” as I already follow them and enjoy most of their songs like you do. We think alike 😊

[@secondsun7727]

@@Nancyshank I hate when that happens - LOL!!!!😁

[@markmccullum8638]

Saw them in concert in the Austin area this fall. Excellent. BTW, Hal Blaine and Joe Osborn from the Wrecking Crew backed up the Carpenters along with the Ron Hicklin Singers on background vocals.

[@billscott356]

This is a band that does Chicago better than Chicago does.

[@TheJimbob1603]

Leonid and Friends has redefined music.

[@glg6069]

this one brought tears to my eyes. Closing my eyes, and listening to this I could see Karen Carpenter singing this. That's what this band does, they bring back the beauty of the bands they honor. Just beautiful!

[@walterdouglas2931]

Wow Im in tears she nailed it Yes Yes Yes

[@raylamey1061]

Jeff, I am happy you liked "Superstar." I met the band a little over 4 years ago. I rapidly advanced from fan to friend to family. Not sure I deserve all the privileges that they give me. I go out on tour with them when I can. You can't find a nicer group of people anywhere. The talent this group has on stage all at once is incredible, yet they are all very humble. You won't find any divas here. I describe Ksenia Buzina as a multifaceted diamond. Besides her undeniable beauty, she is extremely talented. As someone noted earlier, Ksenia can speak and sing in multiple languages. She also has a degree in International Finance and is a piano virtuoso. I have been telling her that she is a "superstar" for quite some time now. I am glad she and the rest of the band are getting some of the recognition that they well deserve. Leonid (pronounced lay-o-nid) is the mastermind of this group. The band does not have prearranged charts to play from. Leonid painstakingly listens to the original studio recordings and writes out the parts (by ear) note for note for all the instruments! He is an absolute genius with absolute pitch. That is why the songs sound perfect like the original. They are as good live as they are in the studio. You must see them in concert. Their chemistry on stage and the interaction back and forth with the crowd is amazing. Valentin Zubakov posted a music video of "Superstar" with Leonid & Friends in one channel and The Carpenters in the other. You will be astounded how close those versions sound.

[@StrateleStudios]

Thank you for this wonderful comment! This really looks like a group of positive and talented musicians!

[@lisaphamilton]

I discovered them 6 years ago and because I’m in Canada I’ve only been able to see them twice but I will claim them as family any day! Ksenia knows how much I love her! Oleg does to!

[@trevorwinslow]

Possibly the best cover Of a song I've ever heard they nailed it in every department 😮 .

[@dusty975]

A great comment, I wish I could give you 10 "thumbs up". Thank you for your personal insight to this fantastic group. I have been a fan for some time and am very pleased to hear these positive comments about them. I love them all but isn't the oboe player in this song just incredible? And I never thought I would ever make a comment about an oboe!

[@trekkeruss]

Ray, I really missed seeing you out on tour! I am sure we will meet again in the spring.

[@garyk8250]

This lead singer is awesome. Look at her site. Ksenia Buzina - My Heart Will Go On - Celine Dion cover from years ago. Another awesome job!

[@rogerdsmith]

They do a cover of a pop song, the same way a major orchestra would do a cover of Beethoven. It’s with full appreciation and dead on note perfect precision.

[@TheRprecupjr]

This is a spot-on description of their incredible talent and what amazes me is that what you hear in the video is pretty damn near what you'll hear in concert as well. I've seen them three times and met them twice - they are incredibly gracious, humble folks

[@Preceptor-lf1ht]

Yes they are Russian but I just call them AMAZING!

[@georgianalabella7852]

So Beautiful. There are no Words How Great of A Cover This Is Truly Masters I Love all There Work What a Band. Wow. Every Emotion Captured in My ❤️ Heart. 😮😢😊. Pete Siny.

[@alcambrola2834]

Check out their version of Tower of Power's "So Very Hard to Go."

[@lindabergman3127]

It’s outstanding and pure beautiful 🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@noyencortezgomez7220]

Their cover of Earth, Wind & Fire's FANTASY is amazing! I play it over and over and over... just awesome‼️❤

[@GCSmith]

Fabulous cover of arguably the Carpenters' greatest recording. The lead singer lady perfectly nails Karen's rendition -- even down to the point her dress is the same as Karen wore when she sang Superstar at the 1972 Grammy's. But let's not forget that Karen did her classical rendition on a first-take work-lead -- with the lyrics on a napkin!

[@John-ym1dx]

This band, Leonid & Friends is probably the greatest cover band on the planet. Every song, by every artist is dead on. Have been following them from the first songs they did.

[@larrymiller4]

The production is fabulous, clean, well defined, understated, just right. And I can't fault the vocalist, since I don't think anyone could quite match Karen Carpenter's voice, breath control, and perfect phrasing, but nevertheless she did an outstanding job. I got chills from this, it was so good, and I even got choked up a bit.

[@chipnole]

The bass player is looking around probably because that is Leonid the leader and producer of the band. This was amazing❗️

[@benjaminespino7876]

El es

[@philippaul66]

Love the drummer Igor, his timing is perfect ❤

[@rolfhallabrin5927]

I am too...amazing performance#

[@bnjmnwst]

Ksenia... My love. Ha ha! She nailed this!

[@MrsChristianMom]

Leonid's covers are precise with enhancements. Listen to Color my World (Chicago). The arrangement is better than the original.

[@gregHames-u6n]

Everything this band does is that great. We saw and met them in Birmingham Al. Very good players, and people. Check out Steely Dan my old school or everything they do. Life is good.

[@lindabergman3127]

Blown away with their cover of My old school

[@dbcanada]

Thanks, Jeff. A wonderful band playing a truly great cover version. You're gonna love the integrity of their other covers, too. 👍

[@richardburton-777]

Is it a "Tribute band"? Do we consider the Philharmonic a tribute orchestra when they play a piece from Beethoven? These guys are each & everyone masters of their craft. What was once only going to be a one off birthday gig, has gone on to become an amazing world wide phenomenon.

[@lindabergman3127]

Absolutely right 👍

[@roykliffen9674]

A difficult distinction to make. In spite what the casual listener may hear, different philharmonic orchestras play those old pieces differently, even changing the conductor may change the performance. The true classical music buffs may have several recordings of the same classic piece of music by different orchestras, because they are different. Without recordings of performances directed by the composer it is very difficult to tell how the music is supposed to be performed exactly. Some orchestras go out of their way to have the identical instruments, the same number of musicians on each instrument, and the original arrangements to come as close as possible to how it would have sounded at the time the composer directed his music. Although not common to say, those may be referred to as "tribute" orchestras in classical music. Standard symphonic orchestras play those same old pieces arranged to fit the orchestra's instruments and even then it's the conductor that tweaks the performance to the standards he deems appropriate. In affect they are playing "covers" which in no way is meant to demean them. It's like Santana playing "Black Magic Woman" originally by Peter Green's Fleetwood Mac; a fantastic song, but a cover none-the-less. Leonid Vorobyev could easily take a song, write an arrangement, and have several musicians perform that song and it would be a cover. But he doesn't. He takes the original recording, analyses it down to each individual instrument and writes the sheet music to recreate the exact tone, timbre, meter, and feel of the original recording of that single instrument. He than invites the very best musicians to play that music. That makes it a tribute; an attempt to come as close as possible to the original.

[@ramongonzalez6122]

First time I heard this song, about two weeks ago, i thought they had dubbed Karen Carpenter's voice over the music. Had to listen to it again and watch the video to realize it is Ksenia's own voice. Karen's voice sounds very slightly deeper, but Ksenia does an incredible cover here.

[@jessereyes7009]

I've seen people rejoice over a reaction video. But nothing like this man melting over a video that he considered perfect and amazing tribute of karen and the carpenters !

[@MarkMark-t5f]

I found this group by accident a couple of years ago. Leonid is a genius. His story is amazing. The music they started with, Chicago, (my favorite band of all time) is master class. 7:16 Living in Russia, they had no access to any sheet music. Leonid transcribed the music for every instrument and vocal. With maybe 1 or 2 exceptions his singers and band members knew absolutely no English. He not only coached them on how to sing the songs but also made sure they understood exactly the meaning of the words they were singing. Ksenia Buzina his main female singer is fluent in 8 languages which had to be a huge help. When she sang Karen Carpenter I was amazed and can't wait for more.

[@gregdcross]

I've been watching L&F's tributes (we really can't consider this level of meticulous accuracy as a "cover") for about a year. Whith Superstar, they not only nail Richard Carpenter's orchestration, but Ksenia absolutely hits dead center on Karen's vocals. I've not seen anyone come as close as she has in sounding like our much missed Karen.

[@gregberg6288]

Leonid and Friends is so much fun to watch on KZbin. Have fun reviewing their covers of Earth Wind and Fire

[@stevekrumlauf8178]

I just love watching Jeff's reaction to L&F's music, and apparently discovering for the very first time what thousands of fans across the USA have been drooling over for so very long. As someone has already pointed out, Richard Carpenter is apparently well aware of Ksenia's vocal masterpiece and, in fact, hosted her at his home while the band was on their latest California trip. I can't think that there has ever been a better cover band in the history of music on this entire planet! Everything they touch turns to gold!

[@IanKerry]

Tha bass player is Leonid, and he transposes the recording to score and arranges it for his orchestra. All of the orchestra/vocalists speak Russian and not English. There are some videos of them strugling with their pronunciation. Boy do they work hard at the execution of every song that they cover.

[@stevegregson4357]

Close your eyes when you listen Imagine Karen It’s perfect

[@alexandermoy127]

Great cover! Amazing! I wonder if you ever checked a Filipino band made up of brothers known as the Reo Brothers- they do a great job covering Sultans of Swing and Alan Parsons Project.

[@allenballard2681]

L&F are incredibly talented. I love their Chicago covers, especially how well their guitarist Sergey Kashirin covers the late Terry Kath. Take a listen to their version of 25 or 6 to 4 or Make Me Smile. Love you video react to Superstar. Be well

[@StrateleStudios]

Can’t wait to hear more!

[@rusty9129]

Thank you for your thoughtful review. To add another layer of OMG, she is performing that close to Karen in a language that isn't even hers!! All the subtle nuances in pronunciation require immense attention and practice. Leonid puts all these performances together and has such a reputation that all these performers travel from great distances whenever he asks. He transcribes each part by ear!! Everyone learns their part and nail it. All of these musicians are successful in their own right but come together out of love for Leonid. They tour America each year...catch a show if you can!

[@nancy9478]

Ksenia speaks english. My daughter took Russian in HS, it was not easy to get the accent right. I can imagine they all practice for hours to get it perfect on the songs.

[@rusty9129]

I've heard her speak. She certainly isn't fluent and has a very heavy accent....not a criticism by any means!!...it simply shows how much work she put in to enunciate and sound like Karen's California/American accent.@@nancy9478

[@qtastekm3918]

To those who are nolstagic , this cover will make you cry.

[@Hettepop]

I know, I did

[@johncourtright1632]

Wow Jeff! I got so excited when I saw you reacting to this!! Leonid & Friends are AMAZING!!! You should also check out their Steely Dan cover, "My Old School". Equally mind-numbingly good! Some other great ones are their covers of "In the Stone" (EW&F), "After The Love Has Gone" (EW&F), "(I've Been) Searchin' So Long" (Chicago), "I Love You More Than You’ll Ever Know" (BS&T), and their original "The Speck of Dust".

[@SpideyVids]

If you haven't already, you should hear these guys' version of My Old School - it's a real winner. 😁

[@darleneworden6874]

It was a gorgeous rendition of this song. The vocals were also very nice. I still think Karen's voice was so pure. I miss her so much.

[@Jonathan-iq3sg]

Ksenia did a sensational job singing this song. And this is NOT meant as a criticism, but no one will ever be capable of singing it quite like Karen Carpenter. RIP to one of the most beautiful female singing voices ever.

[@darrellheath5999]

beautiful best rendition I have heard world class musicians..great..great from Australia want more

[@mikehillman8115]

It’s so incredible how this band has played such perfection of the Carpenters,Earth Wind and Fire and Chicago such a tribute to them all 😃 Agree 10 out of 10

[@VictorHernandezVH1]

I’ve seen artists from Buddy Rich to Steve Perry with Journey to EWF, to recently Seal with Trevor Horn. I have never been moved as much as I was by Leonid & Friends. They’re great musicians. The love what the do. They exude a contagious joy. I’d recommend checking out their cover of EWF’s “In the Stone.”

[@Trapper50cal]

Leonid and Friends is top tier. Their Chicago stuff is unrivaled...by even Chicago. The strings section is usually inhabited by the Official Moscow Symphony I think. the bass player is the head honcho. Start your Chicago rabbit hole with 25 or 6 to 4.

[@swiftmatic]

A little deeper down this rabbit hole you'll find their cover of Steely Dan's "My Old School " featuring the Rox Bros. And yes, Ksenia is GORGEOUS and sings like a bird

[@fictionfactory7164]

This track is absolutely stunning as it evokes memories of KC, but in the same breath, brings us a modern update on what is a classic song. Leonid & friends, sprinkled with the angelic voice of Ksenia Buzina have absolutely nailed it!

[@dipdo7675]

Not only can Ksenia sing fabulously but so beautiful!! Been a fan of the Friends for 3+ years now…started in their great Chicago covers!!

[@sdanjohn]

To even attempt this song of Karen Carpenter is so risky in itself but this is excellent. I thing these guys (and gals) could cover anything.

[@maryannarep]

Leon Russell wrote it. I celebrate Karen's birthday every March. Nothing like her voice.

[@jackiepowell7513]

I went to leon s funeral in Tulsa 2016 I m thinking

[@brianwest4335]

They are the best Chicago and Earth Wind And fire tribute band they have a great original track called Speck of Dust the same beautiful lady smashed this one to

[@stevegregson4357]

Close your eyes I challenge anyone to distinguish those vocals from Karen Go on

[@johnrobidoux4123]

Yes! I've listened to many songs by them. The woman's name is Ksenia Busina (I may have spelled it wrong) look them up. Here's an original by them with Ksenia on vocals: Speck Of Dust.

[@randybaker6042]

She's great. Their cover of My Old School is sick.

[@АндрейЛьвов-ч8е]

Why?! 🤔

[@randybaker6042]

@@АндрейЛьвов-ч8е slang : outstandingly or amazingly good or impressive Because as is the case with what most of what Leonid & Friends do, it is very well performed and produced. The Rox Brothers are exceptional in it.

[@АндрейЛьвов-ч8е]

@@randybaker6042 🤝🥰

[@SoldiersDad]

I have attended three of their concerts and I would say they are just as good as Chicago which I have attended one of their concerts.

[@JohnBoulding]

One of the best cover bands on earth. She speaks multiple languages, sings like and angel and is gorgeous

[@Connifffan]

I've just watched this twice and am stunned. This is the best song that Karen Carpenter ever did, even though I love many of them. She just came back to life for me. I'll be following this group!

[@TerryMrakovichPhD]

They have done hundreds of quality songs, they don't cut corners on any cover. Listen to One Fine Morning originally done by Lighthouse in Canada.

[@rbmelk7083]

These guys do a lot great Chicago covers too!

[@angelmoreno8141]

And EW&F..!!!

[@paul-x8i]

I especially like the oboe, brought tears to my eyes the first time I heard this recording. And, oh yeah, the French horns…lovely! The Classical Guitar was an unexpected delight. I can identify with the trombone player, he definitely did his job. Trumpets “sang”their part. Sax and piano were not a highlight written part on this song, but definitely adding support. Not really an electric guitar highlight song either, but so well played. Drums, so tight, didn’t step on anyone. Electric bass..felt as well as heard. Harp, delightful! Violins, violas, and cello, oh yeah!

[@ChrisDavis-dt6xx]

Every cover song they sing is Golden

[@endoplasreh]

Agreed. I’ve seen a few cover bands of the Carpenters who are really good, but those groups are strictly Carpenters focused. Leonid and Friends reproduce so many other tunes perfectly with just a touch of their flare in them. I saw them in concert and was amazed that their tour work is just like their studio work. You must check out all the Chicago tunes they reproduce, Steely Dan and Earth Wind and Fire as well. You will not be disappointed.

[@georgevangordon9728]

I rarely enjoy covers but I could listen to these people all day long what I find most amazing is they are from Russia. But you could never tell it by the vocals. Very very talented every song is perfection

[@doobiewonkanooby]

I’m convinced Ksenia is a siren. I swear you fall in love with her as you watch her sing so beautifully! 😍

[@Syddybear1]

Masterful, for sure! This is the first I’ve heard of them. I WILL be checking them out more! You should check out LEXINGTON LAB BAND!!!

[@scottzura4964]

Saw them at MGM in Northfield Ohio, they were GREAT!

[@mainmanjimmiblue]

Hi. I think Hal Blaine, from The Wrecking Crew, played drums on The Carpenters' version of "Superstar."

[@country4193]

Superb cover all around from voice to band, arrangement is tops,,, Another cover band l would suggest is “ Rumors of Fleetwood Mac” their cover of “ SARA “

[@country4193]

Superb cover all around from voice to band, arrangement is tops,,, Another cover band l would suggest is “ Rumors of Fleetwood Mac” their cover of “ SARA “

[@lisedonsgrnning6518]

Oh yes, they are incredibly talented and passionate!!! Really really good 👌🏼🥰. Relatively new acquaintance to me - believe, it was their “Ain’t Nobody”-cover being introduced to me as my first listen …. thank you very much for this suggestion and reaction both of you 👍🏼🤗.

[@kilroy205]

discovered them couple years ago. they have tons of AWESOME covers mainly chicago

[@patharrah153]

The bass player is the leader and transcribed all the parts by ear listening to the original track. Also, Hal Blaine was the drummer on the record with Joe Osborn on bass. Both were part of The Wrecking Crew.

[@schtuke]

Dude, I saw it in your eyes... You fell in love--just like we all have. They hit everything--and I mean everything--out of the park. You'll enjoy it all man.

[@StrateleStudios]

I’ve got “Dialogue Part I & II” (Chicago Cover) coming soon. I could barely sit in my seat. You’re gonna get a kick out of it. Hahaha

[@Jambon1963]

Hi there, I've not seen this one by them before, so a surprise indeed. Dare to do a Carpenters song..!! Do check out their Chicago songs. At first you might think they modernised the different tracks before recoding them. But how wrong was I. It was actually later Chicago recordings they used..!! Oh, and the lady singer is a Russian model btw.. They all are.. Russian that is.. Anywho.. I think they are still in the States performing, and some of the original Chicago members have been to their show, and we're pleasantly surprised indeed.. Greetings from the Netherlands Raymond.

[@jonmc3]

Leonid & Friends are awesome. Check out their cover of Chicago. Amazing.

[@luciorivero3873]

Hi there. You know, lm also so familiar with it and woowww it seems like they were possessed by the carpenters. That must be the explanation why it sounds so much alike. This band plays the cover of Hard to say lm sorry by Chicago. You'll be greatly surprised. Blessings from Mexico City

[@Григорьевна-к7ц]

Это потрясающе! Чистый родник!

[@davidwheeler6699]

Good morning I just listened to your channel on Karen Carpenter. It might be helpful to go to Leonid and friends website and read about how this group came together under very difficult circumstances but they are magnificent everything that I’ve heard from them is absolutely excellent.

[@LuisBurke]

Beautiful rendition!! lovely to say the least

[@ledsgar]

Ksenia is magnificent

[@jbs256]

You are on point on many counts. Ksenia was even invited to meet Richard. To be correct that praise to the drummer, which I also gave a while ago but said Hal Blaine is looking down and smiling. Hal was the original drummer. Now you gave this 10/10 and I’d agree, almost. What if there’s an 11/10 of another Carpenters classic? I’m leaving one letter and we’ll revisit this soon. T. Wonderful reaction. I’m already a subscriber but missed this gem. Also credit to Richard Carpenter for his original arrangement. Masterful. Joe

[@fayeschwartz4020]

The original song was written by Leon Russell with Rita Coolidge

[@garyheller62]

I've been following this band for so many years now and they never disappoint. There's nothing I can say about them that hasn't already been said. Please check out all their other tunes. And lets not forget, they are Russians, from Moscow, and English is not their first language (except when Serge was with the band before the war broke out - he's Ukranian) . They are amazing musicians and even better people.

[@jefemartin]

Wish Leonid's countrymen would make music and not war!

[@randyl6541]

So nice. I’m going to be petty and say the backup singers could have been coming through a little stronger. The lead singer was excellent along with all the band members. Like I said I was being petty.

[@CarbonaraKing]

That bass player is Leonid himself. Richard Carpenter loved this rendition so much, he invited Ksenia over to his house where he got to meet his family. She posted tons of photos on Facebook.

[@raybernal6829]

Leonid and Friends have been doing covers/tributes for many years starting with Chicago and now do EWF Steely Dan among others. They have been touring for a few years. Just fantastic 😊 Ksenia Buzina is the vocalist doing this and is beyond awesome....

[@hansenhansen8349]

The lead singer speaks seven languages. They just completed a tour in the USA.