Album Notes

An eccentric bunch of Buffalo musicians, The Skiffle Minstrels have become dancers’ favorites throughout western and central New York. The band plays country-western and Cajun standards as well as upbeat originals with a swinging beat that gets ’em on the floor.

The songs on this album were recorded at the SKRRAM club in Buffalo, NY—a combination living room, bar, rehearsal hall, and supper club. The band all played together in this 20×15 room, skipped the overdubs, punch-ins, and effects, and tried to create something to share their music.

“The Skiffle Minstrels play classic songs of classic songwriters, country blues, swing and honky-tonk, and originals which merit being played in in the same sets as Hank Williams. It’s listening music, it’s dancing music played with energy and joy. I’ve also had the privilege of hosting them live on my radio show twice. They are great in the small radio studio, but the dance hall is their domain.”—Scott Regan (WRUR Radio, Rochester, NY)

“Dancers love the Skiffle Minstrels! They play music that’s just perfect for all kinds of dancing—country and Cajun two-step, swing, waltz, zydeco, blues—in one fun-filled, high-energy package!”—Esther Brill and RJ Ruble (Partner-Dance Teachers)

“It is a wonderful treat to witness a group with such range, talent and joy, that can float across many genres, and more importantly appeal to all ages. They are helping to keep alive vital musical traditions and introduce new generations to wonderful, infectious music. Their mix of original tunes, time-honored classics, and fresh interpretations of standards make for a blast of a night!”—Megan Callahan (Musician)

“A couple of us went to catch a show by the Skiffle Minstrels. The plan was to see some good music and talk about planning an event. Well, nothing got planned because we could not divert our attention from the band long enough. If you are ever looking for something fun to do [. . .] these guys are it.”—Buffalo Rising

“I have to give an overwhelming thumbs up to the Skiffle Minstrels for the music they play and the way they play it. It’s played with passion, craft, and energy. Song choices are vast and tasteful. I love to dance and the Skiffle Minstrels deliver the beat, rhythm, and melodies for a full set of both couples and freestyle dancing. It’s a blast anytime they play. Foxtrot, swing, two-step, waltz, west-coast swing, even a rhumba now and then.”—Kim Wayne (Dancer)

“The Skiffle Minstrels are a hard-working and crowd-pleasing bunch.”—Buffalo News Gusto

“I felt like I was at a 1960's Tennessee barn dance—and judging by the packed dance floor, the crowd seemed to be taken back in time, too. A great night!”—Jason Bravo (Musician)