There is no point in mincing words. The Joymakers’ Down Where The Bluebonnets Grow is one of the hottest jazz records of the year. The group was founded in 2023 by the remarkably versatile Colin Hancock who not only is a top-notch cornetist but is heard on this set playing baritone and alto saxophones, trombone, and taking a few vocals. Hancock’s goal in forming the Joymakers, who are based in Austin, Texas, was to recapture the sound and style of territory bands of the late 1920s, particularly those from Texas. He is joined for this worthy endeavor by David Jellema (clarinet, C-melody sax, and cornet), Lauryn Gould (alto, tenor, and soprano), Dylan Blackthorn (accordion), pianist Shane Dickson, banjoist Weslen Borghesi, bassist Ryan Gould, and drummer Ryan Neubauer. Jellema and Gould also have opportunities to sing a little.
This is a consistently exuberant set that certainly captures the spirit of the territory bands although, unlike some of those period orchestras, it is always in tune! The Joymakers perform superior obscurities and fresh renditions of a few standards on their CD. It is not too often that one gets to hear such songs as “Papa’s Gone,” “Crazy Quilt” (which features some stirring piano), “Hot Aire,” “Kiss Me Sweet,” and “Down Where The Bluebonnets Grow.”
Among the many highlights are Lauryn Gould’s lowdown singing on “I’m A Thousand Miles From Home” (a song previously recorded 101 years ago by Rosa Henderson), the heated “Everybody Stomp,” exuberant versions of “Wolverine Blues” and “Tiger Rag,” the unexpected tempo changes during “I Ain’t Thinkin’ ’Bout You,” and the completely unknown title cut which was written by Phil Baxter (composer of “I’m A Ding Dong Daddy” and “Piccolo Pete”). “Goofy Dust Rag,” which includes some wild ensembles along with perfectly played arranged sections, is another high point.
Filled with colorful solos and unexpected moments, Down Where The Bluebonnets Grow is a must for classic jazz collectors.
Down Where The Bluebonnets Grow
The Joymakers
Turtle Bay 24004
www.turtlebayrecords.com
