Naomi Shelton & the Gospel Queens of Brooklyn

Bar Lunatico, Brooklyn, New York

 

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A  sign over the bar says “Liquid Love,” a perfect description for the vibe created by Naomi Shelton and her first-rate soul band at Bar Lunatico. Shelton, a Daptone Records artist with a loyal Brooklyn fan base, recently made a frosty Sunday afternoon much warmer for a very attentive brunch crowd. Shelton’s playful charm and passionate, no-nonsense singing have been matured by decades of performances. The Gospel Queens, Bobbie Jean Gant, Edna Johnson and Julie Bennett, mix their rich harmonies with pride and pleasure. Shelton sings her truths about love and faith, the audience grins, and shoulders are moving at every table.

Naomi Shelton (seated) her band and the author

Bassist Fred Thomas, veteran of the J.B.’s (James Brown’s tour band), anchors this band, featuring Gabriel Caplan’s considerable chops on electric guitar. The group’s joyous grooves are worth sharing a Lyft. You can hear them at every other Sunday Brunch, and every seat has a view of the stage.

—Annie Dinerman

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