Reel Jem defies categorization. Monica Leigh and her cohorts bring a potency to their blend of neo-soul and do-it-yourself indie rock attitude. The group stamps out their own place in today’s musical landscape while paying homage to influences Alicia Keys and Jeff Buckley” -Janine Schaults "Originally formed in 2004 as a back-up band for lead singer Monica Leigh, Reel Jem soon discovered its connection ran deeper, transforming the project into more of a collaborative effort. Encompassing elements of old-school R&B with new jazz, the band’s debut, For Real, is smooth and sultry. (An obvious influence on this band, Jeff Buckley, the brilliant singer/songwriter who passed away in 1997, would have been impressed.) Reel Jem is based out of Chicago and gigs locally." —Brent Steven White (Columbia College DEMO) You know – there really is nothing like some damn good, down to Earth, soul nurturing R&B. Reel Jem is such a conglomeration. I’m not the biggest fan of this style of music but I know good music when I hear it. The lyrics are on spot, vocals are crisp and clear and make you feel something. They are rich in tone and depth. I could see them back by a choir and belting out some classic soul and groove, rocking the hymnals. “Waiting for You” offers up something that I consider a great love in good music: piano. I love the sound of backing piano as well as lead ivories as in Elton John’s music or Billy Joel. This song brings in the keys along with a great, down played drum so not to hide the words.