Jeff, I am the biggest EWF fan for 50 years. I've never seen a cover band that can do a perfect copy of the original. TILL NOW. They are fantastic. I wonder what Philip, Verdine and Ralph think about this group. Nothing but respect from me.
They do not do covers. They are a "Tribute" band, which means they do everything possible to sound exactly like the group they are performing. They are not only amazing on the videos...they are just as good live! Best "Tribute" band ever!!!!
What Leonid has also done in recreating arrangements with these covers of classics from the 70s, is highlight just how wonderful these songs were - we get to visually see that with the arrangement of musicians and their instruments - and the vocals - that Leonid brings to bear to reproduce them. Plus, we get modern digital music recording accuracy and cleanness - which really does much exceed the analog recordings we have from the 70s era. These were truly incredible songs and now am appreciating them on an entirely different level - thanks to Leonid and Friends. I hope that it also leads to new generation of fans for these great classics, as there really isn't much being created in our contemporary era that even remotely compares.
Note the Clock-like beat of the drummer - as always HIS PRECISE DRUMMING IS CRISP AND NEVER TOO FLASHY ... just another craftsman on his instrument in Leonid & Friends ensemble !!! Kudos Ladies and Gentlemen !!! GBjj
In watching these performances you will note how much fun, how much enjoyment, how much happiness all the performers have. I don't remember ever seeing a string section also enjoying what they have just participated in so much either. Their happiness is infectious to all who watch.
Superb...there are no more words to describe how good these people are. Danil, Oleg, the orchestra..and everyone else.....there is no band like L&F !😀💜💥👍
This level of artistry just doesn't magically appear. I watched this and wondered through the entire song how much work the band put into making this song what it is. Then to bring it all together the way they did...just stunning end to end. Bravo.
Leonid (the bass player and orchestrator of this group) love how he always has a big smile on his face as they are performing. He looks like a proud papa as well as he should.
no synthesizers! real instruments! real orchestra! And right on accuracy with the arrangement and vocals. That’s what sets L&F apart from other “cover” bands that I follow. and Jeff your response to them is what makes me enjoy them even more. They are truly the best!
The FACT is Leonid and Friends is THE GREATEST BAND in the whole World. I can't wait to see them in Charlotte (my second live performance with them). JEFF...YOU MUST HEAR THEM LIVE! Thanks for recognizing them for the marvelous "healing" spirit that they project.
Three keyboards in this arrangement. So wonderful a session group .... they always play with joy, precision and beauty in their souls ..... love the energy and result on each cover !!! God bless, jj
I love that they are Russian and proves that music soothes the savage beast. Spent 3 years in Moscow and Russian are great people. Don’t listen to the fake media. Russian are all class, love music and dance and get this, they love Americans.
Good lord.....they are so incredibly good....every single song they cover they are spot on. Gives me chills every time. I just love their music. Bravo!!!
"Danny" does a great job with the solo vocals, but my favorite part of this one is Oleg on the alto. He is a fantastic player and is also the band's resident comedian. First show I saw, he was off the stage walking through the audience while playing, then dancing on a table (while fans were seated there) during one of the songs.
When I saw them live in spring 2021? it was their first tour stop of the year, they just barely cleared customs/visa/etc in Europe, landed in NYC?, exhausted from bus ride to Boston area... They gave their all, though nowhere near as tight as the studio songs. Oleg prancing all over stage is not so cool, actually but thanks for sharing your love, helps my memories. My dream band.
This song sends tingles up my spine every time, so thankful Leonid and Friends brought it bac k to life again and reproduced so faithfully, not a single beat wrong! Totally brilliant! So happy when they started with Chicago, added EWF to the mix and also covered a Blood Sweat & Tears number, Spinning Wheel! Thank you David Foster for giving that beautiful song to EWF!
Regarding Speck of Dust….probably the most involved work in their catalogue. Leonid’s background in classical music shows in the influences of “Mars” from The Planets.
Brian……Alexey Ashraev is credited with writing the music and collaborated with Leonid and Roman on the lyrics. I’m pretty sure Leonid scored the arrangement, which is stellar.
Another good choice from Leonid and Friends. Have to thank you for the artists you have exposed me to. So many talented artists. Thanks for what you do.
Not only do Leonid and Friends capture the soul and essence of the songs they do, they always, always, always also bring in something new and wonderful. The mantel of Chicago has fallen on them. I really truly believe that.
Me too. JUST as I was starting to hear about them, they played near me and I missed them. My buddy got to see them and was completely floored by them live.
@@StrateleStudios They were here in Reno and I missed them. They also played in the bay area and LV. I would have flown to any of those venues. Your friend was lucky.
I discovered you doing Dirty Loops reactions and was glad the folks made requests to review Leonid. What I like is that the music, well played hits you emotionally. It does that to me and being a long time musician, I can also appreciate the technical abilities of the musicians. Leonid amazes me with their passion to do American music...and they're Russian...something that adds to the mystique for me, who has been around since the cold war days. I would love to hear your insights into the technical aspects of using multiple studios and the difficulties of getting the performance so well synced. Notice the background wall color of the studio when the video picks up Serge's vocals. I believe that is his Kiev location. Given the present state of their world, I can only hope he is safe and well.
Amigo se ve q disfrutas mucho de esta cancion cover de Leonid and Friends...igual yo disfruto de estas canciones y recuerdos inolvidables de aquellos años en Peru South America mi pais...hermoso cover y una excelente Banda.....
Jeff, you need to try and see them live. I know they are touring the States again this year. We saw them last November. Their vocals, musicianship and talent did not disappoint.
Let’s just accept Jeff nobody can reproduce the complex vocal layers and attention to detail that Leonid and his amazing group of friends produce every time. It seems the more complex the song the more impressive their version is. I assume their live performances produce similar quality. Really love the work Jeff keep on keeping on 👍
Thank you so much. Was waiting on this one. Huge Leonid and Friends fan here for years. And they are every bit as good live and in person. Infact this song started everything for me. ❤
I was 22 when they song came out in 1979 over the years members of the band pass away. With groups like L&F its takes me back , but also if I was able to play music , I would be in a group like this . But I'm a athlete and that is my # 1 passion . Music is a very close #2 I enjoy how you reaction is alot like mind would be .
Another great review of this fantastic band. I think you nailed it when you said how well they capture the "essence of the song"....great observation. I think that is exactly what they do with every tune they cover which is why I love this band so much. Keep em coming!!
Please, please please put out an album of originals.....I've been a musician for nearly 50 years and this has to be one of the best bands I've ever heard.
Yes, this band is amazing, there's actually a few out there ie Lexington Lab Band and HSCC to name a few - the quality of talent is truly off the charts!! 🙏👍🤟
Yeah!!! You've discovered Leonard & Friends. Music that embraces the original with such gorgeous acoustic precision, videography and transitional harmonies. The smiles, the images of artists at work, the vibe, the sweetness, wow, wow, wow. And the bass & all those other bits with so much feeling. Bless these great artists... Cheers from Sydney Australia.
They are astounding. I saw them a couple years ago in Birmingham, AL, and they are by no means some "auto-tune" wonders. They sound AWESOME live. I have tickets to see them in April in Oxford, AL. Looking forward to it!!!!
This is one of the top 5 greatest things I've ever heard in 64+ years. Every single second of this performance is magical IMO. If this performance was on a loop 24/7 that would be fine with me ❤🎉🎹🎤👀🔥
They cover all these great songs that were recorded with analog tech and blow them up with today's way superior sound quality. Beautiful cover of a complex song. They are so talented that I'm never surprised to see one of them on another instrument.
Their ability to always nail the vocals so well - that is just so uncanny. Like I've never head anyone else do a Carpenter cover as well as Ksenia covers Karen Carpenter's voice. And the Steely Dan "My Old School" vocal - it is just a perfect rendition of Steely Dan essence (and yes, the guitar playing right there with the vocal - and can't forget that cow bell 😁)
The best cover band ever. I love everything they do. The rehearsal time must be incredible. You really need to hear and do a video on Speck of Dust. It will blow your mind. Cant believe the musicianship on every thing they do. Thanks for being a fan.
I keep saying the Leonid and Friends don't just cover songs, they give it love and tributize them. This is so evident here as they cover EWF again. It's so unbelieveable how good this sounds.
Hi Jeff, Love your enthusiasm for this band & overall review quality. Do you review other Russian artists. Probably the finest young female singer to emerge is Diana Ankudinova. Only just 21 & has recorded around 300 songs already. Phenomenal unique voice. Dark Contralto & a Mezzo Soprano at the same time. very rare for a female to have this kind of voice. Normally only found in Opera. Not only that, she's Polyphonic, meaning she can produce 2 - 3 notes at the same time. This lady covers all sorts of standards & original material, Try Hip Hop To Operatic Pop to Ballard's & Back to Rock. They've even got her to do a duet with Queen's Freddy Mercury. They've morphed her in one of their videos, " The Show Must Go On " very clever. First listen, you'll get Goosebumps, you're not alone , comments on this. 1st. listen , I would recommend " Can't Help Falling In Love " Yep, Elvis song. Not anymore, it's now hers. She's 16 on that one. Then start scrolling through tons of other stuff when she was filmed at 11 through to 19 & up to 21. There's even footage of her when she was 6. Also a full local concert when she was 11. She seems to have great arrangers, like Leonid. These days she seems to produce 2 - 3 videos a month. It's hard to keep up with her. I'm sure when you start reviewing her, you'll be amazed at all the different styles & that voice. WOW.
Just heard that they ( L & F) got a gig next month in Dubai before hitting florida on their next east coast tour..200 shows now? its unreal how they just sell out seats everywhere ..been to a couple & im eager to see them again..its a love fest ...this one gets me teary with how beautiful they bring every emotion to it
I love this band as much as you, I've turned friends to them and they have actually gone to see them twice. My favorite musician is Igor on the drums, he is in the pocket in every song they do, he actually reminds me of a seasoned truck driver like myself shifting gears and not missing a beat.
So beautiful🤗🥰 I love your comment about this song remind me of all the high school dances you didn't go to.I'm a child of the seventies.. I didn't go to any of my high school dances not even the prom. Our hearts are connected to the music.Thank-YOU❤
I've been a musician since I was 7 years old, I'm now 70 this year. This was the ensemble that I always wanted to play in. 100% superb. Perfection personified
Pure magical Succulence! Leonid and Friends are as good if not better than the original groups! I’m 64 and am sooooooo grateful that Leonid and Friends are bring the finest years of music to our world today. What an amazing group of musicians!
Trying not to over simplify things here Jeff. I cannot help but believe that if the everyday normal people of the world could just enjoy getting to know one another, wanting the same basic needs like taking care of their families, pursuing interests they have and looking out for each other without the power hungry leaders making a mess of everything, our own country's leaders being no different, what a wonderful world this would be! Having watched and listened to L & F's for awhile now and seeing interviews with them I would gladly have anyone of them as next door neighbors!!! I'm a hobbyist musician, drummer since I was 10 and I'm 76 now, song writer and producer of my own music and I always have felt that music is the universal language. This band sure does seem to erase the differences in the people around the world through their music and their warm inviting attitude. I wish for them continued success and popularity for as long as they want to do this. And I hope it's for a long time!!! Thanks for your great channel Jeff!!! Bob Love, Los Angeles, CA
@@StrateleStudios I just love this band and all that they represent. I hope to see them if they tour the States this year somewhere near Los Angeles. Thanks so much for your comment Jeff and many more thanks for the great channel you have here!! I'm subscribed and look for you every day. Take care My new You Tube friend!!! Bob
This whole thing was one of the most impressive covers that Leonid and the group has done. I was blown away listening to this - AND THEN - the freakin' sax solo was so perfect it put a cap on this amazing production.
the song was written by David Foster, Jay Graydon, and Bill Champlin and initially composed with the intention of being recorded by Champlin himself. However, Earth, Wind & Fire’s Maurice White heard the demo and decided to record it with the band, turning it into one of their biggest hits. The song became a Grammy-winning classic and a staple of the band’s repertoire.
Damn, watched this at least 50 times in the last month. Even now I still get chills at some point. All those musicians playing perfectly yet it's so well mixed that if you listen closely you can hear each and every group of instruments and also recognize each voice doing the back ups and who is doing the ad-libs. It's spectacular and I can't get enough of this. Jeff you are the man. Thx for bringing this to us. Let's go see them perform live. They are adding California performance every few days. I live in Vegas you know but I'll jump on a plane to see Leonid & Friends with you my friend.
Love your reactions. This band is about as close to perfection as you can get. Lexington Lab Band ain’t too bad either. Don’t know if you’ve explored some of their stuff. Excellent as well.
Hi Jeff thanks so much for your reaction to this video, you have replicated my thoughts completely. These guys are just amazing and the sax solo😮! Have a look at their cover of Wishing you were here, the Chicago song, it’s one of their older tracks but what is particularly outstanding is the vocal harmonies- and Leonid sings the lead! Can I just say there are so many reaction videos cropping up now and some are excruciating! I think you are the best by a country mile! You don’t interrupt by pausing the video and your commentary is intelligent and well-informed, which adds a lot to the experience- thank you and can’t wait for the next L&F 😀
i had a chance to meet Oleg as well as the others..He took out a couple of minutes to chat with me as best as he could. He is a witty, fun loving guy who just loves entertaining and making people smile! Ya gotta watch some of their live shows as they interact with the audience! Jeff, y'all got a beautiful channel and as a fellow musician i am so pleased to have found it (you)! ~Scott~
Jeff. Keep up the great job. L&F are absolutely stellar in so many ways: composition and arrangements, musicality, virtuosity, vocals, enthusiasm, etc. Can’t stop listening. You may also want to check out Hindley Street Country Club (HSCC), a great tribute band from down under.
I don't have adequate words to describe the depth of my respect for these guys or for the pleasure they bring to the many who "get it". They are most amazing antidote for the "skinny" stuff that is generally being foisted upon us. I just love Igor's drumming. He is always so absolutely "in charge" of the kit and his timing and phrasing is immaculate. Thanks for yet another great clip!
Spending my Friday evening babysitting my grand pup and watching your channel/L&F. About Oleg, Mr Sax…wait until you see him live. From watching their videos prior to seeing them, I kind of picked up that Oleg is a high energy guy. I wasn’t far off, in concert he’s a wild man, in a great way. No doubt his mama had her hands full with this kid. 😂
Jeff, I am the biggest EWF fan for 50 years. I've never seen a cover band that can do a perfect copy of the original. TILL NOW. They are fantastic. I wonder what Philip, Verdine and Ralph think about this group. Nothing but respect from me.
They do not do covers. They are a "Tribute" band, which means they do everything possible to sound exactly like the group they are performing. They are not only amazing on the videos...they are just as good live! Best "Tribute" band ever!!!!
"They captured the soul of the song".... and then they polished it.
👏👏👏
and being able to watch them perform these songs adds a 1000% to the experience
Agreed! Every song these wonderful musicians do is perfect.
What Leonid has also done in recreating arrangements with these covers of classics from the 70s, is highlight just how wonderful these songs were - we get to visually see that with the arrangement of musicians and their instruments - and the vocals - that Leonid brings to bear to reproduce them.
Plus, we get modern digital music recording accuracy and cleanness - which really does much exceed the analog recordings we have from the 70s era.
These were truly incredible songs and now am appreciating them on an entirely different level - thanks to Leonid and Friends. I hope that it also leads to new generation of fans for these great classics, as there really isn't much being created in our contemporary era that even remotely compares.
Note the Clock-like beat of the drummer - as always HIS PRECISE DRUMMING IS CRISP AND NEVER TOO FLASHY ... just another craftsman on his instrument in Leonid & Friends ensemble !!! Kudos Ladies and Gentlemen !!! GBjj
❤❤❤❤❤
Igor is the human equivalent of a Patek Philippe.
In watching these performances you will note how much fun, how much enjoyment, how much happiness all the performers have. I don't remember ever seeing a string section also enjoying what they have just participated in so much either. Their happiness is infectious to all who watch.
Yes!!!
I cried a tear...
When Ksenia sings Karen Carpenter in the cover of "Superstar", my eyes get watery as is just such beautiful performance
I love how this group obviously enjoys working with each other. Phenomenal sound.
Superb...there are no more words to describe how good these people are. Danil, Oleg, the orchestra..and everyone else.....there is no band like L&F !😀💜💥👍
This level of artistry just doesn't magically appear. I watched this and wondered through the entire song how much work the band put into making this song what it is. Then to bring it all together the way they did...just stunning end to end. Bravo.
Guys, when they go on tour, they have to show themselves to the world, they are geniuses, greetings from CL
I've seen them twice! They are incredible
Leonid (the bass player and orchestrator of this group) love how he always has a big smile on his face as they are performing. He looks like a proud papa as well as he should.
no synthesizers! real instruments! real orchestra! And right on accuracy with the arrangement and vocals. That’s what sets L&F apart from other “cover” bands that I follow. and Jeff your response to them is what makes me enjoy them even more. They are truly the best!
🫶🫶🫶
The FACT is Leonid and Friends is THE GREATEST BAND in the whole World. I can't wait to see them in Charlotte (my second live performance with them). JEFF...YOU MUST HEAR THEM LIVE! Thanks for recognizing them for the marvelous "healing" spirit that they project.
100% Agree!!
Three keyboards in this arrangement. So wonderful a session group .... they always play with joy, precision and beauty in their souls ..... love the energy and result on each cover !!! God bless, jj
I love that they are Russian and proves that music soothes the savage beast. Spent 3 years in Moscow and Russian are great people. Don’t listen to the fake media. Russian are all class, love music and dance and get this, they love Americans.
Leonid & Fiends & HSCC......Best Coverbands on UA-cam.
Once Again Proving Beyond-a-Doubt that Leonid and Friends IS the BEST BAND in the World!
incredible group! Love them to pieces!!!!
Seeing all that smiles in their faces show us how they love what they're doing... The result couldn't be other than love this band even more.
Wow what a great group of professionals ....right on key ...with perfect arrangement.....
Good lord.....they are so incredibly good....every single song they cover they are spot on. Gives me chills every time. I just love their music. Bravo!!!
Saw them in 2022 in Spirit Lake Iowa. Believe me, they deliver live. Stunningly good!
Absolutely astonishing talent.These people should be selling out 60,000 seat stadiums world wide.The best of the best!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
True
Come to ireland 🇮🇪
The editing, quick and fast views around the band, and the vocal mixes are perfect.
"Danny" does a great job with the solo vocals, but my favorite part of this one is Oleg on the alto. He is a fantastic player and is also the band's resident comedian. First show I saw, he was off the stage walking through the audience while playing, then dancing on a table (while fans were seated there) during one of the songs.
Hahaha nice!
When I saw them live in spring 2021? it was their first tour stop of the year, they just barely cleared customs/visa/etc in Europe, landed in NYC?, exhausted from bus ride to Boston area... They gave their all, though nowhere near as tight as the studio songs. Oleg prancing all over stage is not so cool, actually but thanks for sharing your love, helps my memories. My dream band.
Beautiful ❤❤❤Thank you…from Canada🎉
Splendid mixing of a wonderfully complex performance...
Son espectaculares, soberbios, hacen un honor a la musica
This song sends tingles up my spine every time, so thankful Leonid and Friends brought it bac k to life again and reproduced so faithfully, not a single beat wrong! Totally brilliant! So happy when they started with Chicago, added EWF to the mix and also covered a Blood Sweat & Tears number, Spinning Wheel! Thank you David Foster for giving that beautiful song to EWF!
Is there never a time you do not seeing Leonid not smiling its like the group are his kids and smiling in approval
Love, love, love them! Can’t wait for Speck of Dust reaction.
Regarding Speck of Dust….probably the most involved work in their catalogue. Leonid’s background in classical music shows in the influences of “Mars” from The Planets.
Speck of Dust will blow your mind written by Leonid and his son Roman
Brian……Alexey Ashraev is credited with writing the music and collaborated with Leonid and Roman on the lyrics. I’m pretty sure Leonid scored the arrangement, which is stellar.
It is absolutely fabulous, competing with the best. They are probably the current best band around the world ❤
Love this band. Simply fantastic. Thanks for sharing the love. Brings back good memories.
I just can't stop smiling....
I've been living under a rock or something..........I just discovered Leonid and I'm hooked! Beyond amazing!
Another good choice from Leonid and Friends. Have to thank you for the artists you have exposed me to. So many talented artists. Thanks for what you do.
Great reaction. I am blown away every single time. Love this band. Thank you!
I have no words i so enjoyed loved ❤️ 🎉 this
Not only do Leonid and Friends capture the soul and essence of the songs they do, they always, always, always also bring in something new and wonderful. The mantel of Chicago has fallen on them. I really truly believe that.
Love your reviews/reactions. These guys are primo. I MUST see them on their next tour.
Me too. JUST as I was starting to hear about them, they played near me and I missed them. My buddy got to see them and was completely floored by them live.
@@StrateleStudios Hope you'll get to "Speck of Dust" soon. An original for them, with incredible orchestration (and Ksenia's vocals...).
@@StrateleStudios They were here in Reno and I missed them. They also played in the bay area and LV. I would have flown to any of those venues. Your friend was lucky.
Forgot how much I dig Earth, Wind & Fire!! Great cover, that sax solo! Geez ❤
"Reminds me of all the dances I never went to..." Amen my brother. That is me to a tee as well. I am always blown away by these guys.
😂👏👏👏🫶
I discovered you doing Dirty Loops reactions and was glad the folks made requests to review Leonid. What I like is that the music, well played hits you emotionally. It does that to me and being a long time musician, I can also appreciate the technical abilities of the musicians. Leonid amazes me with their passion to do American music...and they're Russian...something that adds to the mystique for me, who has been around since the cold war days. I would love to hear your insights into the technical aspects of using multiple studios and the difficulties of getting the performance so well synced. Notice the background wall color of the studio when the video picks up Serge's vocals. I believe that is his Kiev location. Given the present state of their world, I can only hope he is safe and well.
It doesn’t get any better than that ! Amazing
I have been listening to these guys for almost 9 years... all they do "Is Get Better"!!!
Thanks, Jeff. Our love for this band will never be gone. ♥
Exelentes músicos y cantantes.
Salu2 dsd San Luis, Argentina 🇦🇷🇦🇷🇦🇷🇦🇷
Amigo se ve q disfrutas mucho de esta cancion cover de Leonid and Friends...igual yo disfruto de estas canciones y recuerdos inolvidables de aquellos años en Peru South America mi pais...hermoso cover y una excelente Banda.....
Jeff, you need to try and see them live. I know they are touring the States again this year. We saw them last November. Their vocals, musicianship and talent did not disappoint.
Let’s just accept Jeff nobody can reproduce the complex vocal layers and attention to detail that Leonid and his amazing group of friends produce every time. It seems the more complex the song the more impressive their version is. I assume their live performances produce similar quality. Really love the work Jeff keep on keeping on 👍
Their live performances are just as amazing. They’re so great on stage!
They are absolutely amazing!
Thank you so much. Was waiting on this one. Huge Leonid and Friends fan here for years. And they are every bit as good live and in person. Infact this song started everything for me. ❤
I was 22 when they song came out in 1979 over the years members of the band pass away. With groups like L&F its takes me back , but also if I was able to play music , I would be in a group like this . But I'm a athlete and that is my # 1 passion . Music is a very close #2 I enjoy how you reaction is alot like mind would be .
Just love this band!! Wow !!
Leonid and friends is the best of the very best love them so much
Another great review of this fantastic band. I think you nailed it when you said how well they capture the "essence of the song"....great observation. I think that is exactly what they do with every tune they cover which is why I love this band so much. Keep em coming!!
How
Are they so great 👍🏻
Everything they do 👍🏻🔥🔥🔥
Please, please please put out an album of originals.....I've been a musician for nearly 50 years and this has to be one of the best bands I've ever heard.
Yes, this band is amazing, there's actually a few out there ie Lexington Lab Band and HSCC to name a few - the quality of talent is truly off the charts!! 🙏👍🤟
Yeah!!! You've discovered Leonard & Friends. Music that embraces the original with such gorgeous acoustic precision, videography and transitional harmonies. The smiles, the images of artists at work, the vibe, the sweetness, wow, wow, wow. And the bass & all those other bits with so much feeling. Bless these great artists... Cheers from Sydney Australia.
They are astounding. I saw them a couple years ago in Birmingham, AL, and they are by no means some "auto-tune" wonders. They sound AWESOME live.
I have tickets to see them in April in Oxford, AL. Looking forward to it!!!!
This is one of the top 5 greatest things I've ever heard in 64+ years. Every single second of this performance is magical IMO. If this performance was on a loop
24/7 that would be fine with me ❤🎉🎹🎤👀🔥
They cover all these great songs that were recorded with analog tech and blow them up with today's way superior sound quality. Beautiful cover of a complex song. They are so talented that I'm never surprised to see one of them on another instrument.
Their ability to always nail the vocals so well - that is just so uncanny. Like I've never head anyone else do a Carpenter cover as well as Ksenia covers Karen Carpenter's voice. And the Steely Dan "My Old School" vocal - it is just a perfect rendition of Steely Dan essence (and yes, the guitar playing right there with the vocal - and can't forget that cow bell 😁)
The camera coverage is so good to make sure all the members are highlighted too.
The best cover band ever. I love everything they do. The rehearsal time must be incredible. You really need to hear and do a video on Speck of Dust. It will blow your mind. Cant believe the musicianship on every thing they do. Thanks for being a fan.
I keep saying the Leonid and Friends don't just cover songs, they give it love and tributize them. This is so evident here as they cover EWF again. It's so unbelieveable how good this sounds.
This band is Sooooo tight, Excellent!!!!!!!!
If this is considered a cover band, the so too are the Philadelphia Symphony.
Hi Jeff, Love your enthusiasm for this band & overall review quality. Do you review other Russian artists. Probably the finest young female singer to emerge is Diana Ankudinova. Only just 21 & has recorded around 300 songs already. Phenomenal unique voice. Dark Contralto & a Mezzo Soprano at the same time. very rare for a female to have this kind of voice. Normally only found in Opera. Not only that, she's Polyphonic, meaning she can produce 2 - 3 notes at the same time. This lady covers all sorts of standards & original material, Try Hip Hop To Operatic Pop to Ballard's & Back to Rock. They've even got her to do a duet with Queen's Freddy Mercury. They've morphed her in one of their videos, " The Show Must Go On " very clever. First listen, you'll get Goosebumps, you're not alone , comments on this. 1st. listen , I would recommend " Can't Help Falling In Love " Yep, Elvis song. Not anymore, it's now hers. She's 16 on that one. Then start scrolling through tons of other stuff when she was filmed at 11 through to 19 & up to 21. There's even footage of her when she was 6. Also a full local concert when she was 11. She seems to have great arrangers, like Leonid. These days she seems to produce 2 - 3 videos a month. It's hard to keep up with her. I'm sure when you start reviewing her, you'll be amazed at all the different styles & that voice. WOW.
Just heard that they ( L & F) got a gig next month in Dubai before hitting florida on their next east coast tour..200 shows now? its unreal how they just sell out seats everywhere ..been to a couple & im eager to see them again..its a love fest ...this one gets me teary with how beautiful they bring every emotion to it
I love this band as much as you, I've turned friends to them and they have actually gone to see them twice. My favorite musician is Igor on the drums, he is in the pocket in every song they do, he actually reminds me of a seasoned truck driver like myself shifting gears and not missing a beat.
So beautiful🤗🥰 I love your comment about this song remind me of all the high school dances you didn't go to.I'm a child of the seventies.. I didn't go to any of my high school dances not even the prom. Our hearts are connected to the music.Thank-YOU❤
I didn’t go to prom either! I convinced my parents to give me an equal amount of money so that could buy Dungeons and Dragons stuff. 🤓😆
I swear you can close your eyes & they sound just like EW&F. L&F are one of those bands that has their covers down to a T 👍
I've been a musician since I was 7 years old, I'm now 70 this year. This was the ensemble that I always wanted to play in. 100% superb. Perfection personified
Jeff , you said it, THEY GET IT ! What an awesome band !
Pure magical Succulence! Leonid and Friends are as good if not better than the original groups! I’m 64 and am sooooooo grateful that Leonid and Friends are bring the finest years of music to our world today. What an amazing group of musicians!
From Holland… great show is this. Good luck!!! Leoned &friends are amazing
Trying not to over simplify things here Jeff. I cannot help but believe that if the everyday normal people of the world could just enjoy getting to know one another, wanting the same basic needs like taking care of their families, pursuing interests they have and looking out for each other without the power hungry leaders making a mess of everything, our own country's leaders being no different, what a wonderful world this would be! Having watched and listened to L & F's for awhile now and seeing interviews with them I would gladly have anyone of them as next door neighbors!!! I'm a hobbyist musician, drummer since I was 10 and I'm 76 now, song writer and producer of my own music and I always have felt that music is the universal language. This band sure does seem to erase the differences in the people around the world through their music and their warm inviting attitude. I wish for them continued success and popularity for as long as they want to do this. And I hope it's for a long time!!! Thanks for your great channel Jeff!!! Bob Love, Los Angeles, CA
I could not have said it better myself Bob! I really love this comment! 👏👏👏🫶
@@StrateleStudios I just love this band and all that they represent. I hope to see them if they tour the States this year somewhere near Los Angeles. Thanks so much for your comment Jeff and many more thanks for the great channel you have here!! I'm subscribed and look for you every day. Take care My new You Tube friend!!! Bob
@@47heritage thank you so much my friend!
This whole thing was one of the most impressive covers that Leonid and the group has done. I was blown away listening to this - AND THEN - the freakin' sax solo was so perfect it put a cap on this amazing production.
Holy smokes that’s amazing!!! I’m lost for f words!
Props to Jay Graydon for writing this amazing song.
the song was written by David Foster, Jay Graydon, and Bill Champlin and initially composed with the intention of being recorded by Champlin himself. However, Earth, Wind & Fire’s Maurice White heard the demo and decided to record it with the band, turning it into one of their biggest hits. The song became a Grammy-winning classic and a staple of the band’s repertoire.
Maurice would be proud, RIP Maurice. 🙏🏽
Damn, watched this at least 50 times in the last month. Even now I still get chills at some point. All those musicians playing perfectly yet it's so well mixed that if you listen closely you can hear each and every group of instruments and also recognize each voice doing the back ups and who is doing the ad-libs. It's spectacular and I can't get enough of this. Jeff you are the man. Thx for bringing this to us. Let's go see them perform live. They are adding California performance every few days. I live in Vegas you know but I'll jump on a plane to see Leonid & Friends with you my friend.
I’m seeing them in Oxnard! 👏👏👏
@@StrateleStudios I am hoping to see them in Dayton, Ohio!!!!
Another smash picking a favorite is like picking out your favorite slice of bacon
Love your reactions. This band is about as close to perfection as you can get. Lexington Lab Band ain’t too bad either. Don’t know if you’ve explored some of their stuff. Excellent as well.
Awesome!! So many beautiful instruments and vocalists! Come to. North Carolina! This is real music. ❤❤❤❤
This is such a cool group! Everything they cover is spot on!
I close my eyes, and see Earth, Wind and Fire performing this. Their sound is so beautiful.
Whst a gift bunch if people. Remarkable likeness
Great reaction ty u should do Leonid and friends I’ve been searching or your the inspiration 2 amazing Chicago covers this band can do anything
This group is absolute magic! Love love love them! 🩷🩷🩷Hoping to see them perform this summer! 💕💕💕
Hi Jeff thanks so much for your reaction to this video, you have replicated my thoughts completely. These guys are just amazing and the sax solo😮! Have a look at their cover of Wishing you were here, the Chicago song, it’s one of their older tracks but what is particularly outstanding is the vocal harmonies- and Leonid sings the lead! Can I just say there are so many reaction videos cropping up now and some are excruciating! I think you are the best by a country mile! You don’t interrupt by pausing the video and your commentary is intelligent and well-informed, which adds a lot to the experience- thank you and can’t wait for the next L&F 😀
Thank you so much Alan, I really appreciate your words! 😊😊😊🫶
i had a chance to meet Oleg as well as the others..He took out a couple of minutes to chat with me as best as he could. He is a witty, fun loving guy who just loves entertaining and making people smile! Ya gotta watch some of their live shows as they interact with the audience! Jeff, y'all got a beautiful channel and as a fellow musician i am so pleased to have found it (you)! ~Scott~
Thank you Scott! So glad you’re enjoying the videos! 😊😊😊
Jeff. Keep up the great job. L&F are absolutely stellar in so many ways: composition and arrangements, musicality, virtuosity, vocals, enthusiasm, etc. Can’t stop listening. You may also want to check out Hindley Street Country Club (HSCC), a great tribute band from down under.
super music!! thak you!!
I love them they are amazing!!!!!!
Super horquesta muy buena musica
I first heard this song on the album Airplay in 1980. I think David Foster's contribution to Chicago and AW&F was huge.
Oiga maestro se le cayeron algunas lágrimas se emocionó al escucharlos no ??
You said it "They get it, they really really get it" Sends warmth and happiness through my body, Thank you for posting
Las lagrimas salen solas es total ess emoción
I don't have adequate words to describe the depth of my respect for these guys or for the pleasure they bring to the many who "get it".
They are most amazing antidote for the "skinny" stuff that is generally being foisted upon us.
I just love Igor's drumming. He is always so absolutely "in charge" of the kit and his timing and phrasing is immaculate. Thanks for yet another great clip!
I love this band too! 🎉🎊👏🫶
Spending my Friday evening babysitting my grand pup and watching your channel/L&F. About Oleg, Mr Sax…wait until you see him live. From watching their videos prior to seeing them, I kind of picked up that Oleg is a high energy guy. I wasn’t far off, in concert he’s a wild man, in a great way. No doubt his mama had her hands full with this kid. 😂