After a period of decline, small-group swing made a major comeback in the mid-1970s with the rise in prominence of tenor-saxophonist Scott Hamilton and cornetist Warren Vache. In the early 1990s, the Retro Swing movement (even with its faddish elements) gave a shot in the arm to the movement and attracted many thousands of young swing dancers. Decades later, swing is still very much alive.
Pianist Floyd Domino, based in Austin, Texas, was a member of Asleep At The Wheel for seven years and has often played with Western Swing bands that combined together vintage country music with jazz. Domino’s background in swing, boogie-woogie, and blues makes him ideal for small swinging combos.
His CD, Floyd Domino’s All Stars, often finds him sounding a bit like Count Basie although also displaying his own musical personality within the genre. He performs the swinging repertoire with cornetist David Jellema, tenor-saxophonist Lauryn Gould, guitarist Brooks Prumo, bassist Ryan Gould, drummer Hal Smith, and occasionally singer Emily Gimble.
Their music is comprised of relaxed versions of standards, blues, and the Ray Charles hit “Mess Around.” The two horns often riff (a bit reminiscent of the Benny Goodman Sextet), the short solos add to the music’s momentum, and the ensembles are full of infectious ideas. Floyd Domino, who is well featured and occasionally showcased on selectio
You've read three articles this month! That makes you one of a rare breed, the true jazz fan!
The Syncopated Times is a monthly publication covering traditional jazz, ragtime and swing. We have the best historic content anywhere, and are the only American publication covering artists and bands currently playing Hot Jazz, Vintage Swing, or Ragtime. Our writers are legends themselves, paid to bring you the best coverage possible. Advertising will never be enough to keep these stories coming, we need your SUBSCRIPTION. Get unlimited access for $30 a year or $50 for two.
Not ready to pay for jazz yet? Register a Free Account for two weeks of unlimited access without nags or pop ups.
Already Registered? Log In
If you shouldn't be seeing this because you already logged in try refreshing the page.