Album Notes

Chuck Hedges: Clarinet
Duane Thamm: Vibes
John Bany: Bass
Dave Bany: Guitar
Charlie Braughm: Drums

On Monday nights at Andy's in Chicago you can he transported to another time - the 30s, 40s, 50s - a time when music was swinging and ballads were beautiful. People's attitudes about cities was different-it was a time when jazz was available and urban sophistication was reflected in the music.

It's at Andy's on Mondays that that club atmosphere is felt again; you find yourself before grand concerts evoking that time in sound and feeling. It's a place where your foot taps and your head swings side to side and back and forth. The Swingtet at Andy's is about relaxed listening with neon colors from the bar signs and friends meeting one another in an intimate atmosphere - not a big band hail yet not alone in your living room. It's about jazz as a social thing - drinks, good food, talks and good times with outstanding musicians.

Chuck Hedges has been at Andy's from the musical beginning in 1978. He is a fixture in the traditional jazz festivals, concerts and clubs throughout the world. His group's close working relationship is like that of a tight-knit family, each member appreciating the contributions of his fellow player. They are a unique unit that surrounds the listener with their sheer driving energy.

Hedges' conscious selections are designed to transport you back to the big band era of Goodman, Hampton and Krupa and the swing, swing, swing tempo that made them famous. His wondrous mellow tone and range shine on the lovely ballads. The clarity and control he has attained truly makes him the master of his instrument-the most demanding of reed instruments.

This is a tight, hard driving rhythm section with players who appreciate not only the times, but time as well. The Bany brothers are family and project a sensitivity and style that is riveting. They are powerful players who respond to the impeccable time keeper, drummer Charlie Braugham. When Duane Thamm joined the group five years ago the band found the ideal compliment to their vision and their commitment to the music of the swing generations.

This CD is living proof that this music is alive and well and in very capable hands.