photo provided by Sherri Rase
CD cover "Take You There"
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From the moment you first take it for a spin, "Take You There," the latest CD release from Uptown Express, is like a mixed playlist you'd make for a trip-if you and your friends could sing close harmonies, and their musical taste runs the gamut of great songs of the last 50 years.

Uptown Express is Christopher Caswell, John DePalma, David Gurland and Brad Parks. Musically, they are directed by James Followell and produced by award-winning producer Paul Rolnick, who includes both Emmy and MAC awards in his trophy case.

What a trip we're on with this new album. Those who were fortunate enough to see the engagements at the Metropolitan Room were treated to the live version of "I'm Yours," as it hops up and down the scale demanding vocal agility from the soloist. Broadway buffs will enjoy their take on "Sing For Your Supper," from "The Boys from Syracuse," and "Everybody Rejoice," from "The Wiz." The beauty of electronic music, done acoustically, is revealed in Erasure's "Always," and Motown gets the Uptown Express treatment with favorites "I Can't Get Next to You" and "You're All I Need to Get By." Knowing that this is a man singing about the love of his life-another man-makes this specially a gift during this season of Pride. "Love is Love is Love" is Grammy winner Julie Gold's paean to what makes the world go 'round and just in case you miss the fact that these men have got what it takes to make us not only happy, but proud, they celebrate all that we are with their arrangement of Dusty Springfield's "Son of a Preacher Man" with Madonna's "Like A Prayer." Truly inspiring music! There are bonus tracks as well, so go get your copy today.

Better yet, see Uptown Express at their appearance on June 23 at 6 p.m. at Barnes & Noble at Lincoln Triangle in New York City. They will be appearing with musical director James Followell and his band. Catch fire with the live performance, and get the CD. It will be the first item you pack for your next summer road trip.