From Connecticut, the Galvanized Jazz Band has performed regularly since its formation back in 1971, and the group is still active today. Recently the ensemble put out two CDs of mostly previously unreleased performances dating from the early part of this century.
With That Old Tuba received its name because it features Art Hovey (who normally doubles on string bass) exclusively playing tuba and usually taking a solo. Dating from 2001-03 and recorded at the group’s regular Sunday gig at the USS Chowderpot III in Branford, Connecticut, the performances feature cornetist Fred Vigorito (the group’s leader and founder), Russ Whitman on clarinet, tenor and bass sax, pianist Bill Sinclair, banjoist Joel Schiavone, Hovey on tuba and drummer Bob Bequillard plus seven different trombonists (including Jim Fryer who also plays trumpet on two numbers) and a few guests.
The good-time music is rollicking New Orleans jazz. While five of the first 11 numbers have so-so vocals (which are generally not on the same level as the solos and ensembles), the final six numbers are instrumentals. Despite that slight reservation, the music is quite enjoyable and spirited, highlighted by “Smiles,” “After You’ve Gone,” “Put On Your Old Grey Bonnet,” “Muskrat Ramble,” and “Stumblin’.”
The GJB Plays Ellington, which also has performances from 2001-03 plus two from 2007-08 and a
