After a very successful students union gig with my swing band Tuxedo Swing last Saturday, i've been listening to a few recordings of the final set we played. One of the songs i thought i'd find a bit more about, "Zoot Suit Riot" by the Cherry Poppin' Daddies. To me without any prior knowledge this song sounded as if it belonged in the sort of 40's era of big bands belters, but to my surprise looking up the Daddies they instead played a big part in the 'swing revival' during the late 1990's (probably coming off the back of masses of New Jack Swing and of course ska and punk music at the time).
Maybe it was popular because its appeal was uber-cheese, i mean the idea of swing influenced music being in the public consciousness again instead of being reserved for lounge and cocktail functions. But regardless it was a hit much to some discomfort from the band which are primarily play ska and soul, and the particular album release was a compilation record of previous albums and a few new songs.. including Zoot Suit which received better attention.
Amazingly the band are still around, and to me it's a good testiment to know that a few groups like this are still out there to please fans and make good original music. Check out both the Daddies website and also the video below (don't tell me those toms don't sound sick).
Also about 30 minutes ago i just watched out of interest "Stewart Lee's Comedy Vehicle" on BBC2, and unlike a lot of new comedies out there today which are or have so far proven to be very mediocre (rhymes with 'Porn and Boredom') this show to me anyway is very satirical and funny. If you like very very dry humour then you will definately enjoy. Note: Brum is not a comedy vehicle, Brum is a childhood friend and memory that shall forever be cherrished.
No comments:
Post a Comment