This is not a cover band, it's like calling a Philarmonic Orchestra a cover band of Beethoven or Mozart. This is an ensamble of fantastic musicians, a "world class" orchestra of great music! Good luck and keep playing!
I just found this group on YT. I used to play some Chicago songs in the high school band. I played clarinet so definitely not the same sound, but it was fun at the time. Make Me Smile has always been my favorite Chicago song. I loved playing the musical end to it. Haven't thought of this for years. Leonid and Friends, thank you for the memories!
@@scottflanagan5456 So you've been a fan for over 50 years and can't distinguish the talent of a the original group versus the cover group. You think that this drummer is better than Danny Seraphine. You think that this guitarist is better than Terry Kath. You think that this singer is better than Peter Cetera. I get it, things like better sound (which is in a studio), and using many more musicians than Chicago ever did on stage are obviously fooling you. But that's just sad, sorry.
@@mikeymutual5489 The drummer is tight and there's nobody like Terry's soulful sound. I have just seen them both and I have a preference. I didn't ask you to like it
That drummer is a beast. He doesn't look like a drummer but he is the core to this band. He looks like he will repair your air conditioning unit, but his hands are gold on the drums...
I have never, ever, seen or heard anyone play any Chicago tunes note for note...ever! I've been a Chicago fan since the 1960's. Seen them live. Played their music myself. Leonid has this down. All high quality musicians. Nice job.
Trumpet player here, and have played Chicago charts since the late 1970's. They just get better with age, like cheese and wine. I can and have played 25 Or 6 To 4 in 4 different keys, to adjust to sopranos, and baritones, nothing sounds better than the original key and Peter Cetera singing lead. Once, once, had a hardcore soprano who put a ton of funk on it and made it sound as good, but none have done it better. These days, the band I play in keeps it simple, stick to 'Saturday in the Park', and 'Does Anybody Know What Time It Is?', while we have multiple arrangements of other Chicago songs to choose from, the band leader is a bass player, and of course, if he can't pull off 'Beginnings', damn if we are going to play it. My absolute favorite Chicago tune, and just because the Lee Loungnare part is just inside my range and ability.
Son. of. a. b!^%h. This was not just a performance by a group of well versed musicians - this was an act of joy by a group of people who truly love the music. You don't just read through a song like that and nail it like they did, that came from the heart. These are diehard Chicago fans, period, regardless of where they are from or where they did it or whatever is going on in the tabloid world at large. Mind blown.
This isn’t a cover band - it’s reincarnation. You can feel the spirit of Terry and the entire early Chicago lineup everywhere here. Omg majestic. Makes me more proud than ever of my Russian heritage.
@@golferjones2095 they are much more than a cover band !!! Is the Philarmonic Orchestra a cover band when they do Mozart or Bethoven ??? Excuse the spelling please !
Hands down the greatest Chicago cover band of all time. For those of you who are confused about "cover band" vs "tribute band" here's what I discovered. A tribute band only performs songs or music by a single artist or band. A cover band performs songs or music by multiple artists/bands. Leonid & Friends cover songs by a variety of artists and bands therefore they are a cover band. The absolute finest cover band I have ever heard.
Good Lord...........the guitar player is bloody fantastic. Eric Clapton? Jimi H endryx? They could be a cover group for this guy........HOLY s....ugar!!!
I am glad that other recognizes this. This is an excellent band, but that fat SOB drummer Igor is other worldly. I logged in just to post about how great he is.
My wife and I saw them a week ago when they were in Chicago. It was fantastic. The crowd really showed their appreciation. They not only played their music but they also told their story and answered questions in between songs. Leonid’s son speaks pretty good English and he did the translation as most other members of the band don’t speak English. Hearing their story made the show that much more special. Leonid was so thrilled to be in the city where the band Chicago started. Also...When they landed in the USA a person at the airport asked if they were popular in Russia. The band member answered “No. But we are really popular in the US”. Here is the story as I understand it. Leonid first heard Chicago in 1972. He lived in Siberia, Russia which at that time was part of the USSR behind the Iron Curtain. Leonid was a budding musician at the time.(Things were so bad in the USSR you couldn’t buy musical instruments and had to build them from scratch. People stole parts from phones in phonebooths to get parts). At that time Leonid hated horn music. That was until a fellow musician played for him a real to real tape with American horn bands including Chicago, Blood Sweat and Tears, and The Tower of Power. Leonid was hooked. Roll ahead over 40 years later ... The USSR is no more and the Internet and RUclips exist. Leonid turns 60 and gives himself a birthday present. He gathers some of his best musician friends and records a Chicago song, makes a video and puts it on RUclips under the name Leonid and Friends. Somehow someone from the real band Chicago sees that video, loves it and posts it on the official Chicago website. It goes viral. Leonid and Friends make more videos. Roll ahead 4 years...Leonid’s wildest dreams come true when he and his Friends do a short tour of the US in LA, New York, Chicago, Dallas, and Clear Water Florida to packed out venues filled with adoring fans who share a love for the music of Chicago. How cool is that.
Lee, thank you VERY much for sharing. I am 57, grew up with Chicago the band in Chicago but moved out 27 years ago. Leonard & Friends did not stop in St. Louis. Like you I LOVE and adore Chicago and believe as the real band fades away as they are starting to find it hard replacing members. I did not go see them last summer and glad I saved my $$$ cause they do not sound as good with so many of the original and first replacements gone from the band. I would pay good $$$ to see this band. They are INCREDIBLY talented and if the real Chicago would take a few of these members with them on tour they would improve they're shows, they are that good. I am PRAYING Leonard & Friends soon come back over to the states and play in more cities? I think they could draw close to 10,000 fans to a show in some markets once fans realize it's as good if not better than the real band? What do you think. I can listen to they're stuff all day it is that damn good!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Lee Steinsdoerfer Thanks for sharing their story! Born and raised in Chicago and the band Chicago was huge in my home! When Terry Kath passed, it was a sad day in our house. Leonid and his friends are very talented! Thanks for putting a huge smile on my face!
Brad Crawford I agree completely. They are more true to the original Chicago sound then the current or recent Chicago lineups. Especially when it comes to guitar and drums. It seems that many if not all the of replacement placers they have used over the years were more concerned about showing off their own chops than being true to the songs as recorded. (To be fair...it has been said that Terry Kath never played a song the same way twice). Leonid, however has worked really hard to capture the original sound as recorded and I think that is what fans appreciate. (As another aside...I know that playing the songs as recorded was something the Eagles always tried to do under Glenn Fry...but it was a struggle for them). As to whether they can get 10,000 fans at a single show I don’t know. But I do know my wife and I would certainly pay to see them again and I know of a lot of people who would go too if they knew about it. So, maybe it’s possible. I do hope they come to USA again. It was a really good show.
@@jamescrabtree5778 you absolutely correctly noticed that when Sergey left the sound of the group became different, with regret I note that it became a bit sadder
I CANNOT stop watching & listening to this group! Since I ‘discovered’ them, here on RUclips, 2 weeks ago I’ve played their entire catalog over & over (& over ...). As both a vocalist & horn player growing up in the ‘60s & ‘70’s in America I was obsessed with the great horn bands like Chicago; Blood Sweat & Tears; Earth, Wind & Fire, et. al.. I marvel at the exquisite musicianship displayed by all of these immensely talented people and only wish I ‘sit in’ with them! Leonid’s ability to cipher these tracks - BY EAR - is reminiscent of the scene in ‘Amadeus’ (movie about Mozart) where Mozart hears Salieri’s march played once by the Emperor Joseph II ... which leads to Mozart sitting down and playing it and then running many variations off with ease. Okay, back to the present from my obscure movie reference ... Leonid & Friends musicianship, obvious passion and enjoyment of playing keystone music from my youth has brought tremendous joy to me in what has been (like so many I suspect) one of the most difficult years of my 60 year-old life! (2020) I am a disabled Veteran living in chronic pain and fatigue from Parkinson’s disease. My medical providers encouraged me to return to my musical & artistic youthful endeavors for ‘Neuroplasticity’ ... and it’s been one of the most effective means of pushing back on chronic pain and keeps me from falling into the twin abyss of dopamine deficiency induced Anxiety & Depression. I, however, hit a very rough spot, 3 months ago and stopped painting and playing my music. That is ... UNTIL I heard Leonid & Friend’s opening riffs of Chicago’s “Make Me Smile”. ... which, in a profound way they did! Thank you so very much to all of you in Leonid & Friends for returning music, joy and hope back into my life!
I read your comment and I empathize with you. I am not a veteran but I grew up in the same era as you I am 63 and also a musician. I would like to encourage you to stay passionate about music and it will continue to bring you joy even through your hard times. I as well love to all the horn groups and I would like to also include Maynard Ferguson, Chase(Not too many people of heard of them but they were fantastic horn group). Check out the album called Chase Ennea.(each tune is about a different Greek God and tells a story). Good luck. T
Sorry to hear of your medical problems. My husband had Parkinsons.. I am so glad you have found L&F to bring you some enjoyment. I listen to them every night. And they sure do Make Me Smile. Keep on listening to the best.
I’ve been cursed with never forgetting the exact sound, tempo, and feel of songs I hear, especially great songs such as these. I rarely like live music or covers because they’re not identical to the original. The ability of these guys to capture LITERALLY every nuance of these songs is something I’ve never seen (heard) in all my 50 years. I’m rarely stunned. Congrats. These guys did it.
Dear Leonid and the whole crew. I'm almost 64 and have been a die hard Chicago fan from the very first time I heard them. That said, I have never gotten so much enjoyment from listening to this incredible music until I came across you folks on RUclips. The way you bring these tunes to life is simply remarkable and I've yet to hear any band that can even come close. Many thanks for all you have done to date and I look forward to more. One of the things I like the most is that all of you look like you're having the time of your lives as you play! I hope you all enjoy making the music as much as I love listening to it. J.C.
We are of the same era and of a single mind about this!!! I regret that this style of music didn't have a longer time in the spotlight, but I'm very thankful that these guys are giving it to the next generation!
I will be 64 November 2021 and I’m right with you. These guys are fantastic and they bring back all the emotions of the original music that I experienced when I was a kid. By far my favorite music of all time while everyone else was listening to the Rolling Stones on the Beatles I was listening to Chicago.
First thought, "Where's Leonid? He's not playing bass!" Second thought, "Oh! Leonid's playing piano and singing lead on the verses!" Such talent! I continue to blown away by you and your friends! As always, Igor is an absolute beast on drums but this song is a particular showcase for him. Thank you all!
I am a 73 year old Chicago nut and I can’t begin to tell you what pleasure I get from revisiting all this stuff now. It is wonderful music. I still can’t get my head around how they were able to work the brass into the rock genre but , by God, did it work. And by the way, not an ego in sight.
I am SOOOOOO happy to see so many comments on this and their other videos about this drummer, Igor. He blew my mind the first time I heard him on "Beginnings" , , , and he was great on everything else I heard since then. Normally I do not care about drummers , , , but I had to know if anyone else was hearing what I was hearing with this guy. Makes me so happy to see from so many comments that so many others recognize this guy's greatness, too.
This drummer truly kicks ass. His power, accuracy, and feel is phenomenal!!! Yes, I have noticed him too, and made a comment on another video about him.
Hell yeah!!! When I was a teen in the early 70's, I listened to the Chicago II album ALL the time in my room and always pretended that I was the drummer - Danny Seraphine's drums carried each song so perfectly and so powerfully, making you feel every beat of the music in your soul. Here, Igor has matched Danny perfectly. I feel that emotional power all over again.
I never knew nothing about drumming, but after hearing him I wonder what else I missed... - he is like the crown jewel in a whole ensemble of pure gold.
Neil Peart said many times that Danny was an influence on his growth of writing his drum parts. Igor nails his style perfectly! Hopefully they play somewhere in New England if they tour here again.
Dear Leonid & Friends: Thank you so much for your incredible re-creation of these classic Chicago tunes. Your love of the music is crystal clear. You have brought new life to this music, and your commitment to excellence brings me tears of joy! Your work is world-class! Thank you for bringing joy and profound inspiration to a life long musician and audio engineer! You have +1 superfan! If you happen to tour anywhere near Detroit, MI, I will be there with lots of friends! All the best to you! --Tom
Thank you, Tom for the great acknowledgement! I have to learn what does it mean "crowdsourcing" - seems like something worthy. (If I had 48 hours a day) :)
Leo, it is VERY VERY CLEAR how much you love and respect Chicago's music that you took all the great pains of getting the transcriptions and the rhythms AS CLOSE TO THE ORIGINAL RECORDING AS HUMANLY POSSIBLE. I am a professional musician myself and we also play some Chicago tunes. We are not even CLOSE to what you did! All the best to Leonid & Friends. You now have a fan from the Philippines! - Bryan
They make you realize just how freaking talented Chicago was by taking you to church with one of Chicago’s best! I can barely describe how happy I am to find out about Leonid & Friends!
Absolutely Glen.. I've been playing drums for over 40 years now and you are correct Igor is a hell of a musician. He's always in the pocket and pretty much has nailed all the parts perfectly. A GREAT musician! Best cover of Chicago I've ever heard and I've heard 100's of bands live. It takes years to get up to that level, as you probably know.
What a compliment to have a group of musicians dedicate so much practice to perfecting your songs. Chicago is a helluva band and, Leonid and friends deserve all the props we can give them. Man, these guys can rock.
they didn't practice that much, they would have had this down in about two to three takes, as long as you can read the dots its not a problem.once they listened to the original score it was straight forward.
Every member of this group is exceptionally talented. Vocalist Vasily Akimov" should be nicknamed "Mr. Energy". Listen to him sing "Vehicle"...he kills it.
One of the greatest singers of all; Ronnie James Dio had praise for Mr Akimov's voice, and I must also heartily agree. There's a certain magic and majesty about it!
I've watched this back-to-back-to-back 5 times and I'm still smiling like an idiot. I've always liked Chicago, but I love these guys. I want to listen to their other stuff but I can't stop re-watching this!
Chicago's original line-up was pure lightning in a bottle and will never occur again (at least in our lifetime). But, damn, these are so freakin' close, it's almost scary. Great job!
@@ursafan40 Agreed. After Kath's death, "C.T.A." died - and Terry had the soul /blues edge - plus he was a world class guitar player. (These guys NAIL some of Kath''s riffs).
На редкость "легальная" ясная партитура, где всё прослушивается. Нет мишуры и накладных примочек. Покоряет безукоризненная инструментальная часть. Солидно, достойно. Спасибо.
Leonid, I have been a Chicago fan since 1969 & the Chicago Transit Authority days. Of All the Chicago classics & I love them all. You so honored the immortal Terry Kath with this one & I sincerely hope that Robert, Lee, Jimmy & Walt could hear what you've done with so much authenticity, homage to their 'sound', reverence & love for the music of Chicago.
I'll second that!! Fantastic!! I love the joy that you guys display when you're playing this great music. The bass player looks like he's having a blast!! Thanks so much!! :-)
Hey I assume English is likely a second (or third or fourth??) language for you guys - do you find the lyrics hard to master? Do you memorize the lyrics phonetically, or just learn the words and their meaning, the whole thing that way? Always wondered how non-native English singers handled song lyrics, if they don’t speak the language. Of course, if you’ve learned the language then my question is invalid! Thanks and AWESOME work as always.
He is solid body is not Danny Seraphine. I saw Danny at the clinic a few years ago at Sam Ash in South Florida. He’s an interesting and talented drummer. He was definitely the heart of the band in the inspiration for all of this! Along with the rest of the cast and crew.
Absolutely, without a doubt, the best Chicago cover I have ever heard. I am a vocalist, drummer and pianist for 40 years. Nothing can touch this. Such a fantastic tribute. Keep up the excellent work. Bravo!
I wonder if it's a matter of them being a tight, professional band first? Cover bands only seem to cover the top acts. Any you can't come close unless you really have the chops like the original bands.
Leonid and Friends is living in the full and clear embodiment of the spirit of “Chicago”. Their enthusiasm, their performance, timing, sound, and enjoyment is contagious. I want to hear them live in concert some day.
YES! It's the only song that this bass player sits in on and I bet he's wishing that he could do it again! Seems like he's discovering for the first time what the rest of them already know. I love seeing his enthusiasm. Love seeing it with all of them. LOVE IT!
Question: why is it that this incredibly talented group of musicians choose Chicago as they’re primary source of cover material. Answer: They recognize and admire the brilliance of The boys from Illinois!
My critique to those of you "experts" with the comments about the guitar solo and Terry Kath vocals. Rick Bowman in particular. How many of you can sing in perfect Russian? Much less without an accent? I attended every single Chicago concert in the Dallas/Fort Worth area from 1969 until the present. I have played bass and keyboards professionally for many national acts. This by far is a remarkable rendition of Make Me Smile. Leonid you are far too nice with your responses. Fantastic job and spot on. Terry Kath never sang live like he did in the studio. He never played the solos anything like the studio versions either. Especially on Make Me Smile, Questions 67 and 68 and 25 or 6 to 4. Leonid. Fantastic job! Top notch Chicago tribute.
I just recently found you guys on You Tube and have been sharing with friends and family. Truly remarkable musicianship and vocals throughout! What's next? If your tracks were on vinyl, they'd be worn out by now! Well done, gentlemen! Oh, and the strings were over the top on "If You Leave Me Now"! They were all smiling!! Haha
Leonid, I still have a vivid memory of the moment I discovered Chicago in 1969. Listening to you guys gives me the same chills and thrills I felt back then. Thanks for the music.
I've said that this group just shows how incredible Kath was. The guitar, the vocals, ... all are terrific. There is simply no matching Terry Kath. This group recreates the energy and spirit of his singing and playing at least as well as the current iteration of Chicago does. A great tribute - nearly impossible to imagine anyone doing better. I thoroughly enjoy that musicians from another country & language manage to recreate it so faithfully - yet still add energy/tonal qualities of their own. Great stuff.
The amount of rehearsals he must have done, to get Kath's routine exactly perfect like that, must have taken hundreds of times. But he nails it, in every song. Truly a master guitarist.
I definitely noticed the bassist, particularly as it really built up in the last half when he wasn't on camera. The bass line is absolutely nuts, 16th notes all over the map and he nailed it. Just superb. But credit too to the piano player (usual bassist) that transcribes this stuff. An enormous job. And he's note perfect on everything.
Leonid is the Bass player. Also transcribes all of the words and music for the whole band. He started it out as a birthday gift to himself. The rest is history! Even the group Chicago are fans!
The year was 1970 , Terry Kath was 24 years old when this was released. I saw them then , at Maples Pavilion at Stanford University. I was 13 , and it was great!
I agree with the many comments about the drummer. Behind any great band is your rhythm section, the bass and drums. Igor is a monster on the drum kit! I got to shake his hand last Saturday at Rams Head. Told him he is DA MAN! Great show put on by a great band. The talent and energy is absolutely top notch. Thinking of flying to Clearwater Florida to see them again✌️✌️ Thanks for a fun evening
Holy Sh*t!!!!! Came across this group by accident and been binge watching their videos. I was in the Air Force when Chicago's first album came out and became an immediate fan. This group nails it!!!!!! WOW! Igor on the drums is doing Danny Seraphine proud!!!! Close your eyes and you swear that Danny is on the kit.I'm an old "broke-ass" Vietnam Vet but I'll donate what and whenever I can. Keep rocking guys!!!
To call these people a cover band is almost an insult. My teen years were spent in South Louisiana and to listen to them brings tears to my eyes. I've listen to many over the decades and none come close. Your music AND singing is spot on. I have told many that I know that the best are Leonid and friends along with HSCC. I believe that you all are connected ? Keep up the good work.
it will always be a cover band when you copy the original arrangements, no question they are good, but they are copying, they didn't write the original scores themselves, and they would have had to ask Chicago permission to copy them, for a fee.
Absolutely fabulous. Happy to accidentally discover this great band. I don’t get tired to listening to them. Now on my favorites list. Thank you very much Russia! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
This band is astounding; I'm listening to everything I can find from them. But this tune reminds me what an incredible gift Chicago was. Imagine creating all of this; and a new genre to boot.
Anyone giving a thumbs down to these great musicians probably never held a horn ,drumstick ,string instrument , banged on a keyboard or recorded a vocal track.These musicians are all first class.
The 226 people that put a thumbs down obviously don't know anything about music or what a great performance is. I especially like the drummer because he is extremely fluid in his rolls and accents and nails the drum part which is very difficult to do. Precise dynamics and mastering of all the techniques needed to make the song work right! Also it was the extended version which I especially like! I'm downloading all of these to watch on my 4K TV (hope sound is there) cause I've noticed some of the videos I try to play from my flashcard have no sound. You Russians really ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
One of, if not THE best …this and Beginnings always bring an emotional response outta me. Y’all have the energy of Chicago 30 yrs. ago. Two grateful thumbs up!
It speaks volumes about the power of Terry Kath's voice that it takes 2 vocalists to do him justice. Great job. I can't think of a better Chicago cover band ... ever.
It was a winter several yers ago when I started listening to the band here on the tube. I started hearing about reviews of shows, then the great thing happened and they were giving their second US show free at an outdoor place near Greensburg. We were walking up the street to the show and these two guys approached, I look over and its Leonid and Igor and I was at loss for words. A storm started rolling in for last song, it was epic.
I can scour You Tube, and not find a tighter, more passionate and musical interpretation ( including the dozons of the composers' own performances). I am certain. I am blown away.
Everyone is so right about Igor, who utterly STUNS with the SOLID performances he turns out, every freakin time! But what about that INSANELY TALENTED lead guitarist!!! Unbelievable
I am stunned by the accuracy of arranging, producing and delivery of this music. To my ears, most of the instruments accurately replicate the original sounds. The talent pool of these recordings is monumental and breathtaking. I'm rarely impressed by cover bands but, honestly, these folks do Chicago better than Chicago!!! Incredible!
Chicago's original drummer, the great Danny Seraphine, has shared this video on his facebook page as an example of how it should be done. I agree! You are now my favorite Russian horn band, tied with Sergey Shnurov's Leningrad. I've heard many, many Chicago covers before, but nothing as technicality and powerfully as close to the original recordings as this, and you give a little extra as well! I would love to hear the you do "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is" with the original album track intro.
The best Group more than Chicago, the instrument they used are top notch. Me and my husband are going to watch their Concert on November 28, 2024 at Coach House San Juan Capistrano, CA👏👏👏🇺🇸
One of the MANY great things about this band is it looks like they're having the time of their lives playing this music. I don't know how anyone could help but feel good watching and listening to them.
Unbelievable! They redefine "cover." This ensemble is over-the-top fabulous. I cannot stop listening to them and watching them enjoy the heck out of what they are doing. Incredible!!! Yay Leonid! And Friends!!
It’s March 2023, and I’m still in all of this performance. Top shelf
"In AWE"!!!
This is not a cover band, it's like calling a Philarmonic Orchestra a cover band of Beethoven or Mozart. This is an ensamble of fantastic musicians, a "world class" orchestra of great music! Good luck and keep playing!
the only way you play like this is by reading the arrangements, you cant guess this.
Вы правы!
Totally agree, these guys and Lexington Lab Band are the best
I just found this group on YT. I used to play some Chicago songs in the high school band. I played clarinet so definitely not the same sound, but it was fun at the time. Make Me Smile has always been my favorite Chicago song. I loved playing the musical end to it. Haven't thought of this for years. Leonid and Friends, thank you for the memories!
Agreed. Unparalleled passion and musicianship. I was a huge Chicago fan, but these folks are far superior to Chicago, even in their prime.
That drummer is amazing..his timing is impeccable!! The guitarist nailed the solo..no words.
Because he has a click track in his ears
Does that mean he’s not a good drummer??
Igor is a beast on the drums
@@pauljennings6632 Dude is a stone-cold pro - 10/10.
Ditto
This is not a cover band, it is a Tribute band. The very best.
Without a doubt. I'm a huge Chicago fan and these guys are better live than Chicago ever was
@@scottflanagan5456 Um, perhaps you should look up Chicago's early live clips and you will see how foolish that comment is.
@@mikeymutual5489 Ummm I have. Been a fan for over 50 years
@@scottflanagan5456 So you've been a fan for over 50 years and can't distinguish the talent of a the original group versus the cover group. You think that this drummer is better than Danny Seraphine. You think that this guitarist is better than Terry Kath. You think that this singer is better than Peter Cetera. I get it, things like better sound (which is in a studio), and using many more musicians than Chicago ever did on stage are obviously fooling you. But that's just sad, sorry.
@@mikeymutual5489 The drummer is tight and there's nobody like Terry's soulful sound. I have just seen them both and I have a preference. I didn't ask you to like it
This drummer is SIMPLY WORLD CLASS.....every song....incredible musicianship
have you come across a video of these guys playing "i've been searchin so long"? i cant find one
Agreed. That's what caught me in the "Beginnings" video. These folks all nail it but the drummer is absolutely spot-on.
I met and hung out with these guys after their Pittsburgh show.. Bought them 16 Steeler Tees
He drums with precision.Cheers
The drums make or break this song. Glad he delivered!
That drummer is a beast. He doesn't look like a drummer but he is the core to this band. He looks like he will repair your air conditioning unit, but his hands are gold on the drums...
I burst into laughter, when I read your comment. You are so absolutely right!!!!
Every word a direct hit! Bravo, Mr Pollock!
Yea the drummer is the real deal, a masterful performer.
He's fabulous 🤩😁they all are 👏👏❤️❤️❤️👏❤️💕
@@lindabergman3127
of course... each of them is a miracle...!!!
That’s actually what he does at his day job. Lol just kidding
The bassist in this song Makes Me Smile every time I watch it!
I know, right? 😊
Wow, one of my favorites in high school. This sounds excellente! 🫠🫠🫠🫠
I have never, ever, seen or heard anyone play any Chicago tunes note for note...ever! I've been a Chicago fan since the 1960's. Seen them live. Played their music myself. Leonid has this down. All high quality musicians. Nice job.
Ditto...have loved Chicago since they were CTA...these guys are fantastic!!!
Who the f... is Leonid? They are just fantastic. Better than the original?
@@haraldhier3094 Loenid is the bass player :)
Trumpet player here, and have played Chicago charts since the late 1970's. They just get better with age, like cheese and wine. I can and have played 25 Or 6 To 4 in 4 different keys, to adjust to sopranos, and baritones, nothing sounds better than the original key and Peter Cetera singing lead. Once, once, had a hardcore soprano who put a ton of funk on it and made it sound as good, but none have done it better.
These days, the band I play in keeps it simple, stick to 'Saturday in the Park', and 'Does Anybody Know What Time It Is?', while we have multiple arrangements of other Chicago songs to choose from, the band leader is a bass player, and of course, if he can't pull off 'Beginnings', damn if we are going to play it. My absolute favorite Chicago tune, and just because the Lee Loungnare part is just inside my range and ability.
@@TimWilson888 On this track, Leonid is playing the piano. Incredible.
Son. of. a. b!^%h. This was not just a performance by a group of well versed musicians - this was an act of joy by a group of people who truly love the music. You don't just read through a song like that and nail it like they did, that came from the heart. These are diehard Chicago fans, period, regardless of where they are from or where they did it or whatever is going on in the tabloid world at large. Mind blown.
Well said.
Very well said. Cannot hide passion!!
Testify
Attention young drummers: watch this guy's hands. Relaxed, fluid and beautiful. A joy to watch, and rock solid in the pocket.
Dude is a MONSTER. A joy to watch/hear.
@@gamby16a I believe the Metronome uses him to keep time! LOL! He's truly a great!
Can pick some drum.
It's all in his wrists.
Really excellent drummer....Doesn't mess anything up. He's nailed it! Technically very very good too.
This is easily one of the greatest covers I've ever seen. These guys are world-class. These singers are incredible!
World Class Indeed!!!!!
Wait until you see them live.
You mean HEARD, don't you?
@@censorshipsucks9493when i saw L&F online at our fav music venue in Honolulu i immediately ordered tx.
This isn’t a cover band - it’s reincarnation. You can feel the spirit of Terry and the entire early Chicago lineup everywhere here. Omg majestic. Makes me more proud than ever of my Russian heritage.
of course its a cover band they are playing someone else arrangements, theres no question there are good, they didn't write the songs.
That's the spirit of 1970 Chicago right there 👍😎
Russians are among the world's best musicians..fact!
@@golferjones2095 They do preform original music too.
@@golferjones2095 they are much more than a cover band !!! Is the Philarmonic Orchestra a cover band when they do Mozart or Bethoven ??? Excuse the spelling please !
Seriously - who is NOT smiling as they listen to this! The band is having so much fun you can't help but be happy also!
Hear a breakdown how much there is to this song from Rick Beato. It's awesome analysis: ruclips.net/video/qFVpSjRUD2E/видео.html
Chicago’s smiling all the way to the bank on royalty’s
😊
Hands down the greatest Chicago cover band of all time.
For those of you who are confused about "cover band" vs "tribute band" here's what I discovered.
A tribute band only performs songs or music by a single artist or band.
A cover band performs songs or music by multiple artists/bands.
Leonid & Friends cover songs by a variety of artists and bands therefore they are a cover band. The absolute finest cover band I have ever heard.
They actually are better than Chicago
Absolutely!
I would say this is one of Russia's greatest exports. Bravo.
Great musicians and Emissaries of Peace too.
I’ve never heard anyone cover any one of these song more gloriously than these cats.
That's what I said!!
Why can't Easy J or someone like her do this , after all it's only a matter of skin color?
These cats and The Analogues are simply amazing.
Good Lord...........the guitar player is bloody fantastic. Eric Clapton? Jimi H endryx? They could be a cover group for this guy........HOLY s....ugar!!!
listen to chicago the originals
The drummer is a MONSTER PRO!! You have no idea how much JOY and HAPPINESS you project into our atmosphere! THANK YOU!!
Rapharez Great comment !
I am glad that other recognizes this. This is an excellent band, but that fat SOB drummer Igor is other worldly. I logged in just to post about how great he is.
I’m a guitarist... Yet I see myself watching this drummer thru EVERY VIDEO!!! He’s fucking amazing👍🏼
Reincarnation is real!
They all are pure perfection
My wife and I saw them a week ago when they were in Chicago. It was fantastic. The crowd really showed their appreciation. They not only played their music but they also told their story and answered questions in between songs. Leonid’s son speaks pretty good English and he did the translation as most other members of the band don’t speak English. Hearing their story made the show that much more special.
Leonid was so thrilled to be in the city where the band Chicago started.
Also...When they landed in the USA a person at the airport asked if they were popular in Russia. The band member answered “No. But we are really popular in the US”.
Here is the story as I understand it.
Leonid first heard Chicago in 1972. He lived in Siberia, Russia which at that time was part of the USSR behind the Iron Curtain. Leonid was a budding musician at the time.(Things were so bad in the USSR you couldn’t buy musical instruments and had to build them from scratch. People stole parts from phones in phonebooths to get parts). At that time Leonid hated horn music. That was until a fellow musician played for him a real to real tape with American horn bands including Chicago, Blood Sweat and Tears, and The Tower of Power. Leonid was hooked.
Roll ahead over 40 years later ... The USSR is no more and the Internet and RUclips exist. Leonid turns 60 and gives himself a birthday present. He gathers some of his best musician friends and records a Chicago song, makes a video and puts it on RUclips under the name Leonid and Friends. Somehow someone from the real band Chicago sees that video, loves it and posts it on the official Chicago website. It goes viral. Leonid and Friends make more videos. Roll ahead 4 years...Leonid’s wildest dreams come true when he and his Friends do a short tour of the US in LA, New York, Chicago, Dallas, and Clear Water Florida to packed out venues filled with adoring fans who share a love for the music of Chicago.
How cool is that.
Lee, thank you VERY much for sharing. I am 57, grew up with Chicago the band in Chicago but moved out 27 years ago. Leonard & Friends did not stop in St. Louis. Like you I LOVE and adore Chicago and believe as the real band fades away as they are starting to find it hard replacing members. I did not go see them last summer and glad I saved my $$$ cause they do not sound as good with so many of the original and first replacements gone from the band. I would pay good $$$ to see this band. They are INCREDIBLY talented and if the real Chicago would take a few of these members with them on tour they would improve they're shows, they are that good. I am PRAYING Leonard & Friends soon come back over to the states and play in more cities? I think they could draw close to 10,000 fans to a show in some markets once fans realize it's as good if not better than the real band? What do you think. I can listen to they're stuff all day it is that damn good!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Lee Steinsdoerfer
Thanks for sharing their story! Born and raised in Chicago and the band Chicago was huge in my home! When Terry Kath passed, it was a sad day in our house.
Leonid and his friends are very talented! Thanks for putting a huge smile on my face!
Brad Crawford I agree completely. They are more true to the original Chicago sound then the current or recent Chicago lineups. Especially when it comes to guitar and drums. It seems that many if not all the of replacement placers they have used over the years were more concerned about showing off their own chops than being true to the songs as recorded. (To be fair...it has been said that Terry Kath never played a song the same way twice). Leonid, however has worked really hard to capture the original sound as recorded and I think that is what fans appreciate.
(As another aside...I know that playing the songs as recorded was something the Eagles always tried to do under Glenn Fry...but it was a struggle for them). As to whether they can get 10,000 fans at a single show I don’t know. But I do know my wife and I would certainly pay to see them again and I know of a lot of people who would go too if they knew about it. So, maybe it’s possible. I do hope they come to USA again. It was a really good show.
Awesome story thanks for sharing that.
Thanks, Lee
Igor is king of the drums; Sergei of the guitar! The whole band... magnificent!!!
Ever since Sergey left the group, it is just not the same !
@@jamescrabtree5778 you absolutely correctly noticed that when Sergey left the sound of the group became different, with regret I note that it became a bit sadder
@@jamescrabtree5778 he had to spend time with his family
I think he will come back
@@tt55k let it be
I CANNOT stop watching & listening to this group! Since I ‘discovered’ them, here on RUclips, 2 weeks ago I’ve played their entire catalog over & over (& over ...). As both a vocalist & horn player growing up in the ‘60s & ‘70’s in America I was obsessed with the great horn bands like Chicago; Blood Sweat & Tears; Earth, Wind & Fire, et. al.. I marvel at the exquisite musicianship displayed by all of these immensely talented people and only wish I ‘sit in’ with them!
Leonid’s ability to cipher these tracks - BY EAR - is reminiscent of the scene in ‘Amadeus’ (movie about Mozart) where Mozart hears Salieri’s march played once by the Emperor Joseph II ... which leads to Mozart sitting down and playing it and then running many variations off with ease.
Okay, back to the present from my obscure movie reference ... Leonid & Friends musicianship, obvious passion and enjoyment of playing keystone music from my youth has brought tremendous joy to me in what has been (like so many I suspect) one of the most difficult years of my 60 year-old life! (2020)
I am a disabled Veteran living in chronic pain and fatigue from Parkinson’s disease. My medical providers encouraged me to return to my musical & artistic youthful endeavors for ‘Neuroplasticity’ ... and it’s been one of the most effective means of pushing back on chronic pain and keeps me from falling into the twin abyss of dopamine deficiency induced Anxiety & Depression.
I, however, hit a very rough spot, 3 months ago and stopped painting and playing my music. That is ...
UNTIL I heard Leonid & Friend’s opening riffs of Chicago’s “Make Me Smile”. ... which, in a profound way they did!
Thank you so very much to all of you in Leonid & Friends for returning music, joy and hope back into my life!
I read your comment and I empathize with you. I am not a veteran but I grew up in the same era as you I am 63 and also a musician. I would like to encourage you to stay passionate about music and it will continue to bring you joy even through your hard times. I as well love to all the horn groups and I would like to also include Maynard Ferguson, Chase(Not too many people of heard of them but they were fantastic horn group). Check out the album called Chase Ennea.(each tune is about a different Greek God and tells a story). Good luck.
T
Sorry to hear of your medical problems. My husband had Parkinsons.. I am so glad you have found L&F to bring you some enjoyment. I listen to them every night. And they sure do Make Me Smile. Keep on listening to the best.
@@ellenstewartbowman3898 Thank you - I am very grateful for your kind words!
I’m with ya on this !!!
I couldn't agree with you more. These guys slay this music. I'm glad they have inspired you, they make me feel the same...loved the Amedeus reference.
Probably one of the best drummers in the world right now.
I couldn't agree more.
Agreed. Driving this great band flawlessly.
I certainly agree. He blows me away, but every last one of them is off the hook awesome!
@@glsak the sound mixers and techs deserve some credit too. But yeah.....the group has no shortage of talent.
@@gispel7058 Absolutely valid point.
Monster drummer. Precise. Dynamic control.
daddynichol52 monster everybody!!!
This drummer combines power with finesse; simple and complex; a machine with feeling; love listening to him
I will be watching these videos many time to learn these drum parts. Awesome skills.
He's a beast!!
That drummer is fucking machine.
The one good thing going through the Covid lockdown was finding this group of amazing musicians. Thank you Leonid and Friends.
Haha, that's awesome. I love seeing others discover incredible new stuff down tye RUclips rabbit hole. 👍😆😁
Absolutely 👍🤩😁😍👍💯🥰
I saw them in concert last year. Wanted to the year before, but then covid. Can't make it this year.
I believe they're making Terry Kath smile down from heaven.
rick2112rkrk RIP Kath
We miss you Terry!
Yeah
rickrkrk: I"m your 99th like. Yes God Bless Terry and his rockin guitar and voice!
Me too
I’ve been cursed with never forgetting the exact sound, tempo, and feel of songs I hear, especially great songs such as these. I rarely like live music or covers because they’re not identical to the original. The ability of these guys to capture LITERALLY every nuance of these songs is something I’ve never seen (heard) in all my 50 years. I’m rarely stunned. Congrats. These guys did it.
💪 YOU said it brotha!!! 😎
Same.
I agree. They nail it, and you can tell that is what they WANT to do and they love doing it.
stealing this from some else - they don't cover these songs, they clone them
Their talent and musicianship is UNBELIEVABLE!! This is one of my ALL-TIME favorite songs, done in a PERFECT fashion!
Dear Leonid and the whole crew. I'm almost 64 and have been a die hard Chicago fan from the very first time I heard them. That said, I have never gotten so much enjoyment from listening to this incredible music until I came across you folks on RUclips. The way you bring these tunes to life is simply remarkable and I've yet to hear any band that can even come close. Many thanks for all you have done to date and I look forward to more. One of the things I like the most is that all of you look like you're having the time of your lives as you play! I hope you all enjoy making the music as much as I love listening to it. J.C.
I'll turn 64 this October and I totally agree, brother. Can't add a thing to what you said.
De nada
4 days from today!
We are of the same era and of a single mind about this!!! I regret that this style of music didn't have a longer time in the spotlight, but I'm very thankful that these guys are giving it to the next generation!
I will be 64 November 2021 and I’m right with you. These guys are fantastic and they bring back all the emotions of the original music that I experienced when I was a kid. By far my favorite music of all time while everyone else was listening to the Rolling Stones on the Beatles I was listening to Chicago.
First thought, "Where's Leonid? He's not playing bass!" Second thought, "Oh! Leonid's playing piano and singing lead on the verses!" Such talent! I continue to blown away by you and your friends! As always, Igor is an absolute beast on drums but this song is a particular showcase for him. Thank you all!
Talk about NAILING one of the toughest bands to cover. These guys are incredible.
And for most of these cats, English is their second language. Talk about true imitation, simply amazing.
Talk about stopping in your tracks.
Stunning & sensational beyond belief.
Incredible indeed! That is my word for them over & over.
not if you can read, the dots
Simply superb!
The best part that makes me smile is at the end the sheer joy in the faces knowing they nailed it. That should make us all smile. 😁
SO TRUE, couldn't agree more if I could
And that is a hell of a haul, at least in the brass section. Yes, agree, they nailed it!
I like how they split Terry Kath's vocals between Leonid and Vasily; it works.
Actually, it's split between three of them. Terry could do it all, lol.
How amazing is Terry it took three of them...
I am a 73 year old Chicago nut and I can’t begin to tell you what pleasure I get from revisiting all this stuff now. It is wonderful music. I still can’t get my head around how they were able to work the brass into the rock genre but , by God, did it work. And by the way, not an ego in sight.
I am SOOOOOO happy to see so many comments on this and their other videos about this drummer, Igor. He blew my mind the first time I heard him on "Beginnings" , , , and he was great on everything else I heard since then. Normally I do not care about drummers , , , but I had to know if anyone else was hearing what I was hearing with this guy. Makes me so happy to see from so many comments that so many others recognize this guy's greatness, too.
This drummer truly kicks ass. His power, accuracy, and feel is phenomenal!!! Yes, I have noticed him too, and made a comment on another video about him.
Hell yeah!!! When I was a teen in the early 70's, I listened to the Chicago II album ALL the time in my room and always pretended that I was the drummer - Danny Seraphine's drums carried each song so perfectly and so powerfully, making you feel every beat of the music in your soul. Here, Igor has matched Danny perfectly. I feel that emotional power all over again.
I never knew nothing about drumming, but after hearing him I wonder what else I missed... - he is like the crown jewel in a whole ensemble of pure gold.
Neil Peart said many times that Danny was an influence on his growth of writing his drum parts. Igor nails his style perfectly! Hopefully they play somewhere in New England if they tour here again.
as a bass and guitar player I was blown away by this drummers consistency. such a great driver.....geez, the entire ensemble is top shelf !!
Dear Leonid & Friends: Thank you so much for your incredible re-creation of these classic Chicago tunes. Your love of the music is crystal clear. You have brought new life to this music, and your commitment to excellence brings me tears of joy! Your work is world-class! Thank you for bringing joy and profound inspiration to a life long musician and audio engineer! You have +1 superfan! If you happen to tour anywhere near Detroit, MI, I will be there with lots of friends! All the best to you! --Tom
By the way, I think you should take a stab at crowdsourcing a tour and see if it can make financial sense for you guys! --Tom
Thank you, Tom for the great acknowledgement!
I have to learn what does it mean "crowdsourcing" - seems like something worthy.
(If I had 48 hours a day) :)
Well said...
Or Eight Days a Week :)
Leo, it is VERY VERY CLEAR how much you love and respect Chicago's music that you took all the great pains of getting the transcriptions and the rhythms AS CLOSE TO THE ORIGINAL RECORDING AS HUMANLY POSSIBLE. I am a professional musician myself and we also play some Chicago tunes. We are not even CLOSE to what you did! All the best to Leonid & Friends. You now have a fan from the Philippines! - Bryan
These are some of the best studio musicians in the world
AMEN -- IN THE WORLD !!!
Without a doubt
I listen to them more than any other musicians on RUclips.
Y'all should hear them "live"!
May I suggest seeing them live? You will not be disappointed. Unless you are expecting them to suck.
They make you realize just how freaking talented Chicago was by taking you to church with one of Chicago’s best! I can barely describe how happy I am to find out about Leonid & Friends!
Drummer is a MONSTER! Really drives the rest of the band who really don't need any help either!! How refreshing to hear real music played so well....
I agree with you Glen.
Igor is a monster, simple like that.
No doubt, anyone who can even attempt to cover Danny Serephine in his own house gets my total respect, and he nailed it to the floor.
+ I totally agree, the drummer kills it !!😁🎊👍🏼
Absolutely Glen.. I've been playing drums for over 40 years now and you are correct Igor is a hell of a musician. He's always in the pocket and pretty much has nailed all the parts perfectly. A GREAT musician! Best cover of Chicago I've ever heard and I've heard 100's of bands live. It takes years to get up to that level, as you probably know.
Came here to comment just for the drummer. I normally do not care about the drummer . . . but this dude is out of this world. Just . . . speechless.
What a compliment to have a group of musicians dedicate so much practice to perfecting your songs. Chicago is a helluva band and, Leonid and friends deserve all the props we can give them. Man, these guys can rock.
they didn't have practice a lot if you can read like these guys it would be straight forward,
they didn't practice that much, they would have had this down in about two to three takes, as long as you can read the dots its not a problem.once they listened to the original score it was straight forward.
Every member of this group is exceptionally talented. Vocalist Vasily Akimov" should be nicknamed "Mr. Energy". Listen to him sing "Vehicle"...he kills it.
One of the greatest singers of all; Ronnie James Dio had praise for Mr Akimov's voice, and I must also heartily agree. There's a certain magic and majesty about it!
He’s certainly got a great voice 😂they all do 👍
It’s one of the best guitar solo’s ever. This guy nailed it.
I've watched this back-to-back-to-back 5 times and I'm still smiling like an idiot. I've always liked Chicago, but I love these guys. I want to listen to their other stuff but I can't stop re-watching this!
dont forget 25 or 6 to 4
Just another reminder that music is the universal language of peace.
The Russian people are some of my favorite in the whole world. I have taught seminars there and absolutely love the people
Chicago's original line-up was pure lightning in a bottle and will never occur again (at least in our lifetime). But, damn, these are so freakin' close, it's almost scary. Great job!
They lost their mojo when Terry died.
@@ursafan40 - Think what might have happened if they'd gotten Lowell George as a replacement (though he died young too...)
@@johnparker1290 You know........... that's so weird it just might have worked
@@ursafan40 Agreed. After Kath's death, "C.T.A." died - and Terry had the soul /blues edge - plus he was a world class guitar player. (These guys NAIL some of Kath''s riffs).
@@jphforex2151 I want to know how Sergey gets his Les Paul to sound like Terry's Strats and Teles!
Плюньте мне в лицо, но это лучше чем оригинал! Профессионалы высочайшего класса!
The drummer is absolutely spot on! The entire band simply smokes.
This performance made me cry sweet tears of joy.
And the vocalist dude in the white shirt is positively operatic. Bravo!!
I truly understand what you're saying as you so eloquently phrased your comment.
I cried every time i listen to it
На редкость "легальная" ясная партитура, где всё прослушивается. Нет мишуры и накладных примочек. Покоряет безукоризненная инструментальная часть. Солидно, достойно. Спасибо.
One of the toughest bands to emulate -- I know -- I used to perform their charts. These guys are beyond stunning.
Leonid, I have been a Chicago fan since 1969 & the Chicago Transit Authority days. Of All the Chicago classics & I love them all. You so honored the immortal Terry Kath with this one & I sincerely hope that Robert, Lee, Jimmy & Walt could hear what you've done with so much authenticity, homage to their 'sound', reverence & love for the music of Chicago.
Thank you WK McLennan! We hope they like it! :)
I'll second that!! Fantastic!! I love the joy that you guys display when you're playing this great music. The bass
player looks like he's having a blast!! Thanks so much!! :-)
Hey I assume English is likely a second (or third or fourth??) language for you guys - do you find the lyrics hard to master? Do you memorize the lyrics phonetically, or just learn the words and their meaning, the whole thing that way? Always wondered how non-native English singers handled song lyrics, if they don’t speak the language. Of course, if you’ve learned the language then my question is invalid! Thanks and AWESOME work as always.
Kath was otherworldly in his talent...
Well done gents, one of my fav's.. I'm listening for the first time... hoping you did the entire "Suite for a girl from Buchanan" :)
The drum fills are incredible! Like listening to Danny.
He is solid body is not Danny Seraphine. I saw Danny at the clinic a few years ago at Sam Ash in South Florida. He’s an interesting and talented drummer. He was definitely the heart of the band in the inspiration for all of this! Along with the rest of the cast and crew.
…all these guys absolutely CRUSH their parts, but the drummer most of all… he is absolutely ON IT!
Absolutely, without a doubt, the best Chicago cover I have ever heard.
I am a vocalist, drummer and pianist for 40 years. Nothing can touch this.
Such a fantastic tribute.
Keep up the excellent work. Bravo!
Finally, someone who can nail Peter's vocals.
Greg Dowdy Yeah, I've seen maybe a dozen bands ever even attempt, none of them even close to these monsters.
I wonder if it's a matter of them being a tight, professional band first? Cover bands only seem to cover the top acts. Any you can't come close unless you really have the chops like the original bands.
Leonid and Friends is living in the full and clear embodiment of the spirit of “Chicago”. Their enthusiasm, their performance, timing, sound, and enjoyment is contagious. I want to hear them live in concert some day.
Amen! Me too
They are starting a fall tour of the US right now. Definitely go see them if they are nearby (or even if they aren't...)
The bassplayer (in fact all of them) is having the time of his life. It's contagious.
YES! It's the only song that this bass player sits in on and I bet he's wishing that he could do it again! Seems like he's discovering for the first time what the rest of them already know. I love seeing his enthusiasm. Love seeing it with all of them. LOVE IT!
I'll add.... he looks like he's the drummer's brother. Gotta wonder...
AND ISN'T THIS WHAT MUSIC IS ABOUT??
Question: why is it that this incredibly talented group of musicians choose Chicago as they’re primary source of cover material. Answer: They recognize and admire the brilliance of The boys from Illinois!
My critique to those of you "experts" with the comments about the guitar solo and Terry Kath vocals. Rick Bowman in particular. How many of you can sing in perfect Russian? Much less without an accent? I attended every single Chicago concert in the Dallas/Fort Worth area from 1969 until the present. I have played bass and keyboards professionally for many national acts. This by far is a remarkable rendition of Make Me Smile. Leonid you are far too nice with your responses. Fantastic job and spot on. Terry Kath never sang live like he did in the studio. He never played the solos anything like the studio versions either. Especially on Make Me Smile, Questions 67 and 68 and 25 or 6 to 4. Leonid. Fantastic job! Top notch Chicago tribute.
Thank you very much, Joe! Such acknowledgement like yours is highly important for us!
exactly, I totally thought the guitar solo here felt a lot like a Kath studio solo. great stuff
I just recently found you guys on You Tube and have been sharing with friends and family. Truly remarkable musicianship and vocals throughout! What's next? If your tracks were on vinyl, they'd be worn out by now! Well done, gentlemen! Oh, and the strings were over the top on "If You Leave Me Now"! They were all smiling!! Haha
Leonid, I still have a vivid memory of the moment I discovered Chicago in 1969. Listening to you guys gives me the same chills and thrills I felt back then. Thanks for the music.
I've said that this group just shows how incredible Kath was. The guitar, the vocals, ... all are terrific. There is simply no matching Terry Kath. This group recreates the energy and spirit of his singing and playing at least as well as the current iteration of Chicago does. A great tribute - nearly impossible to imagine anyone doing better. I thoroughly enjoy that musicians from another country & language manage to recreate it so faithfully - yet still add energy/tonal qualities of their own. Great stuff.
I listen to this every day as a pick-me-up. My God the guitar player brings back Terry Kath to life. Keep these up Lenoid. Your art is inspiring.
The amount of rehearsals he must have done, to get Kath's routine exactly perfect like that, must have taken hundreds of times. But he nails it, in every song. Truly a master guitarist.
The amazing thing is no matter how great these guys are it took 3 of them to replicate Terry Kath’s performance…
This is better than any Chicago tribute band in the U.S. Excellent!
I see so many people complimenting and being amazed by the drummer, but the bassist! He is ON POINT and grooving out. I love it!
Agreed! They're all monsters!
He was only with band at the very beginning.
I definitely noticed the bassist, particularly as it really built up in the last half when he wasn't on camera. The bass line is absolutely nuts, 16th notes all over the map and he nailed it. Just superb. But credit too to the piano player (usual bassist) that transcribes this stuff. An enormous job. And he's note perfect on everything.
Leonid is the Bass player. Also transcribes all of the words and music for the whole band. He started it out as a birthday gift to himself. The rest is history! Even the group Chicago are fans!
Well, he's the boss ; )
The year was 1970 , Terry Kath was 24 years old when this was released. I saw them then , at Maples Pavilion at Stanford University. I was 13 , and it was great!
This drummer straight up kicks ass! Somewhere, Danny Serafin is proudly smiling!
Igor and Danny Serafin are friends and Danny has guest played with them.
Drums are played here in a true state of perfection...MERCY!!!!!
I have never heard a cover band even come close to demonstrating this kind of musical genius. Doesnt get any better!
Thomas Green Well said!
Check out The Hindley Street Country Club! Another great band ! Love them both. All the best
Monte Whitefield Will do. Thanks!
Thanks!
Check out Lexington Lab band.
They are also super tight.
This was obviously amazing it shows just how out of this world Terry Kath was .. he’s almost impossible to replicate
Terry Kath would give two thumbs up. Great Passion and musicianship.
This Great. We have lost this in American music, Need to get back to this kind of music, real music.
Love those Horns
Roger , I agree 100%
I agree music like this is what will bring people together!!!
Together we all will unite and bring it back. we are the ruling age now over 50
Also love the horns; this is unbelievable they don't speak English! Love this!
Not only are the musical performances incredible but the editing of the videos is equally as impressive.
drummer is perfect
I agree with the many comments about the drummer. Behind any great band is your rhythm section, the bass and drums. Igor is a monster on the drum kit! I got to shake his hand last Saturday at Rams Head. Told him he is DA MAN!
Great show put on by a great band. The talent and energy is absolutely top notch.
Thinking of flying to Clearwater Florida to see them again✌️✌️
Thanks for a fun evening
Holy Sh*t!!!!! Came across this group by accident and been binge watching their videos. I was in the Air Force when Chicago's first album came out and became an immediate fan.
This group nails it!!!!!! WOW! Igor on the drums is doing Danny Seraphine proud!!!! Close your eyes and you swear that Danny is on the kit.I'm an old "broke-ass" Vietnam Vet but I'll donate what and whenever I can. Keep rocking guys!!!
OMG TIGHT! the drummer is a beast and I love the smile on the bassist's face :D
This has to be one of the most epic songs covered by one of the most epic Tribute bands. Pure joy when listening.
Extraordinary! With Vasily's voice you guys could nail some Blood, Sweat, & Tears!
And some Joe Cocker!
Hell yeah
OH MAN!!! Blood, Sweat and Tears would be amazing for sure too!!!
I'd love to hear them cover "Vehicle" by Ides of March. or "Got to Get it On" by Chase, as well.
You hit the nail on the head, Gravity! I'd been trying to find the right comparison for his voice, distinct as it is.
Leonid- Thank you for putting this talented group together! You look like your having as much fun playing as I am listening! You all rock!!
Not to mention the production is INSANE
Absolutely. It even reveals itself thru my tinny phone speaker.
To call these people a cover band is almost an insult. My teen years were spent in South Louisiana and to listen to them brings tears to my eyes. I've listen to many over the decades and none come close. Your music AND singing is spot on. I have told many that I know that the best are Leonid and friends along with HSCC. I believe that you all are connected ? Keep up the good work.
it will always be a cover band when you copy the original arrangements, no question they are good, but they are copying, they didn't write the original scores themselves, and they would have had to ask Chicago permission to copy them, for a fee.
Absolutely fabulous. Happy to accidentally discover this great band.
I don’t get tired to listening to them. Now on my favorites list.
Thank you very much Russia! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
UKRAINE! NOT VLADLAND
This band is astounding; I'm listening to everything I can find from them. But this tune reminds me what an incredible gift Chicago was. Imagine creating all of this; and a new genre to boot.
Kool.
great song and great arrangement. Chicago - the architect!
Anyone giving a thumbs down to these great musicians probably never held a horn ,drumstick ,string instrument , banged on a keyboard or recorded a vocal track.These musicians are all first class.
None of the above was the reason but JEALOUSY.
IGOR IS KILLING IT ON THE DRUMS!!!
The joy this group brings to my heart is simply immense. Extraordinary musicians and people all of them.
You tube fed this group into my feed and now I can’t stop gorging on their brilliance.
The 226 people that put a thumbs down obviously don't know anything about music or what a great performance is. I especially like the drummer because he is extremely fluid in his rolls and accents and nails the drum part which is very difficult to do. Precise dynamics and mastering of all the techniques needed to make the song work right! Also it was the extended version which I especially like! I'm downloading all of these to watch on my 4K TV (hope sound is there) cause I've noticed some of the videos I try to play from my flashcard have no sound. You Russians really ROCK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Just amazing!
Love your channel and you do know good music!
im a drummer, read the brass parts.
Some people are just tone deaf
Trolls, they are.
One of, if not THE best …this and Beginnings always bring an emotional response outta me. Y’all have the energy of Chicago 30 yrs. ago. Two grateful thumbs up!
It speaks volumes about the power of Terry Kath's voice that it takes 2 vocalists to do him justice. Great job. I can't think of a better Chicago cover band ... ever.
I'm not so sure.
3 vocalists, actually. Sergey, the guitarist, sings the high notes.
It was a winter several yers ago when I started listening to the band here on the tube. I started hearing about reviews of shows, then the great thing happened and they were giving their second US show free at an outdoor place near Greensburg. We were walking up the street to the show and these two guys approached, I look over and its Leonid and Igor and I was at loss for words. A storm started rolling in for last song, it was epic.
The bass player in this track is reflecting my joy in listening to this song. He's having a blast!
I can scour You Tube, and not find a tighter, more passionate and musical interpretation ( including the dozons of the composers' own performances). I am certain. I am blown away.
Check out some of the stuff by Foxes & Fossils!
That I what call the essence of performing. The drummer is simply outstanding
Saw them this past Friday I have never felt so much energy They are an incredible live act
Yep 🎉🎉
Everyone is so right about Igor, who utterly STUNS with the SOLID performances he turns out, every freakin time! But what about that INSANELY TALENTED lead guitarist!!! Unbelievable
I am stunned by the accuracy of arranging, producing and delivery of this music. To my ears, most of the instruments accurately replicate the original sounds. The talent pool of these recordings is monumental and breathtaking. I'm rarely impressed by cover bands but, honestly, these folks do Chicago better than Chicago!!! Incredible!
Chicago's original drummer, the great Danny Seraphine, has shared this video on his facebook page as an example of how it should be done. I agree! You are now my favorite Russian horn band, tied with Sergey Shnurov's Leningrad. I've heard many, many Chicago covers before, but nothing as technicality and powerfully as close to the original recordings as this, and you give a little extra as well! I would love to hear the you do "Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is" with the original album track intro.
Danny was great.
Couldn't agree more, that drummer has great command of his technique.
I even daresay these guys do Chicago covers better than the original.
They've done "Does Anybody Know What Time it is" rayman20us you just gotta go a searching, oh, and yes just love these Blokes.
ruclips.net/video/FB-nXQc6LMU/видео.html
The best Group more than Chicago, the instrument they used are top notch. Me and my husband are going to watch their Concert on November 28, 2024 at Coach House San Juan Capistrano, CA👏👏👏🇺🇸
As an American, I want to thank you and say you smashed it, absolute perfection. Thank you.
One of the MANY great things about this band is it looks like they're having the time of their lives playing this music. I don't know how anyone could help but feel good watching and listening to them.
Unbelievable! They redefine "cover." This ensemble is over-the-top fabulous. I cannot stop listening to them and watching them enjoy the heck out of what they are doing. Incredible!!! Yay Leonid! And Friends!!
The drummer is extra epic!
Oh my goodness. This was so phenomenal it brought tears to my eyes.
DITTO!
Wow this ROCKS!
I’m sitting alone with earbuds and actually applauding at the end. Can’t help it.
Me Too !!!!!!!!!!!!!!