The Daily Times – Maryville, TN
January 04. 2008

 Album review: “Sol Juice,” by Dave Landeo
It’s been a minute since we caught up with local singin’, songwritin’ dude Dave Landeo, but he was kind enough to send us a copy of his new album, “Sol Juice,” this week.

For those who have seen Mr. Landeo perform, you might be skeptical — how can such an effervescent, upbeat, life-of-the-party performer accurately capture the enthusiasm and energy of his live shows on a studio album.

The answer: Quite well, thankyaverymuch. The album opens with “Oye Hombre,” a flamenco-flavored album that straddles the fence between the acoustic Hispanic goodness of Buena Vista Social Club and the electric firepower of Carlos Santana. From there, Landeo wanders all over the musical map — from the keyboard-laced funkiness of “Whatever” to the laid-back, sunny grooves of “Welcome” ... from the anthemic feel of “And Then There’s You” to the bouncing “Good Mornin’ Sunshine,” which hits the ears like the audio equivalent of a Red Bull — full of energy and jittery goodness that makes you wanna dance.

The acoustic, soulful “Colorado Sky,” the rocker “Keep on Runnin’” and the acoustic guitar flashiness of “All Grown Up” close out the disc. That’s right — at only eight songs, the only complaint is that it’s too short. But perhaps that’s the point — after all, Landeo is one of those guys who uses his studio songs as building blocks, things to take to the stage and give lives of their own.

Fortunately, Landeo plays around here often enough that if “Sol Juice” gets you curious, you can go check him out. He performs every Tuesday night at Wild Wing Cafe in Farragut, and look for him on Jan. 25 at Naterz Sports Grill right here in Maryville. Check him out online at www.landeo.com or www.myspace.com/davelandeoband