by Karen Strawn
Pantagraph Staff

This is not normal.

After listening to the newest compact disc release titled "Twice in a Blue Moon," by Bloomington/Normal's R&B band Hip Pocket, you will feel proud and will want to share this music with as many of your friends and relatives as possible who live in Nashville, Austin, Chicago, Los Angeles or any other major music city in the world.

Having based the foundation of their part-time music careers on the longevity, loyalty and locale, the nine talented Hip Pocket performers have, once again, created a solid, tight, big sound, which makes the residents of Central Illinois proud - twice in a blue moon.

Pinch yourself and claim ownership of this combination platter of soulful blues, funk, rock 'n' roll and Motown that delivers the flavor of Twin City's very own 1997 Inaugural Gala Ball guest entertainers.

This CD follows Hip Pocket's debut "This Ain't Normal," released in February 1995. To own both is necessary just because of the local essence. However, "Twice in a Blue Moon" will sound better because it was recorded with the advantages of studio technology. "This Ain't Normal" was recorded live at Scotties when Scotties was Scotties.