Album Notes

When we formed this band in January 2008, we were fairly certain that our goal to play for three consecutive Wednesdays at the Corktown in Hamilton would amount to the full life span of the band.

We knew we were on to something when 250 people braved winter weather to come out and hear us that first night.

Now, almost three years and 50+ (often sold out) performances later, we have completed our first recording. The resulting CD is a snapshot of our live performances at the Corktown, featuring the music of Thad Jones, whose exceptional writing has defined the foundation of this band. Due largely to the 100+ sets we have played together, we were able to produce these nine tracks during a single, joyous and focused eight-hour recording session.

I can only attribute the band’s success to a perfect marriage between an exceptional group of musicians (whose talent never ceases to inspire) and a wonderful audience, many of whom have been there since the beginning.

My former ‘Blood Sweat and Tears’ bandmate Nick Marchione (currently lead trumpeter in New York City’s famed
Vanguard Jazz Orchestra – known originally as the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra) has also been with us since the beginning. Nick has helped to guide us through Thad’s considerable canon and on many occasions joined us on stage. Anyone who has seen him perform with the band knows the kind of energy he brings to the bandstand. It was no different in the studio. His incredible focus and energy pushed an already inspired band over the top. It was exhilarating!

Many other great musicians have joined us over the past years, including drummer Terry Clarke, Grammy winning saxophonist Gary Smulyan, vocalists Nikki Yanofsky, Harrison Kennedy and Carol McCartney, trombonist Ron Westray and vocalists Sophia Perlman and Juno winning rock and roots artist Tom Wilson, both of whom joined the band live in the studio for this recording.

Hamilton audiences are amazing and we continue to be grateful for their overwhelming support. You may have noticed that both the front and back panels of this CD are photographs in homage to our town.

It has been a privilege and tremendous fun for me to share the stage with these inspired performers these last few years.
The excitement the band and audience generate has brought jazz to life in Hamilton. If you don’t believe me, come down and see for yourself!

DARCY HEPNER