It’s crazy to me that eight years into reviewing for The Syncopated Times the only previous time I covered After Midnight was their Christmas album. It was great, and hinted at a great band, but I think I can say in January, it was after all, a Christmas album. It’s crazy to me in part that I haven’t commented on them more because the leader of After Midnight, clarinetist Roger Campbell, has been such a strong supporter of The Syncopated Times for as long as I can remember.
After Midnight has been a jazz presence in Denver Colorado for 25 years with nine albums to show for it. In fact they have an offer right now on their website of all of their albums on a custom printed commemorative USB flash drive also containing photos of the band over the years and a video from 2017. It is a clever idea for the digital age, mixing physical ownership with how people actually listen to music these days. It is typical of Campbell who keeps up a level of professional grinding for his band that other groups should try to emulate. From hunting for gigs, to active engagement on social media, he does it right.
The band itself is also very professional. Clean cut, playing appealing titles from a deep book, while staying true to their own timeless jazz sound which includes crowd pleasing riffs and runs. Nearly unique to them in 2024, a vibraphone is a key part of their sound.
Their website is geared towards event bookers as well as fans, including a FAQ about what they can provide as well as requirements. Q: “Can you play any Rock and Roll?” A: “No. Our specialty is jazz…” In 2024 they played over 40 gigs all over the state of Colorado. They used to appear at the Sacramento Jazz Festival and will be heard at Jazz Bash by the Bay in Monterey, California this March. Locally they play frequent swing dances and the nearby Evergreen Jazz Festival.
Their latest album, C’est Si Bon, which translates to “It’s So Good,” is a retrospective of their evolution as a band over 25 years, which, if they are new to you makes for a fine introduction. Don’t confuse it with a greatest hits album, these are new recordings, but some dive deep into the band’s history. The band on this session is Roger Campbell, Clarinet; Mike McCullough, Guitar/Vocals; Jim Moore, Drums; Dwight Thompson, Bass; Rick Weingarten, Vibraphone/Vocals; and Andy Weyl, Piano.
The tracks include interesting choices, for example, “The Godfather Waltz,” with several other tracks being or feeling like lively renditions of classical music. Looking through their back catalog this is hardly a first for them, and it is done exceptionally well. The band originated with an eye to Benny Goodman’s sextet, and Hampton’s vibes. Red Norvo is another inspiration, and the band can swing and entertain. The album features fun titles typical of the ’40s and ’50s including “Ain’t Nobody Here but Us Chickens,” as well as several sung in French. Campbell is an excellent clarinetist, and the band knows how to back him with feeling.
The period where vibraphone was common was prime swing and it is unfortunate vibes became rare in recent decades. I have said the same about accordion and violin, and all three add a similar extended quality to a band’s sound that gives them that extra something. I am glad After Midnight is returning to the West Coast for a festival this year, they deserve attention from jazz aficionados beyond Colorado, there is no other band quite like them playing today.
C’est Si Bon
After Midnight
aftermidnightjazzband.com
