By:Paige Humber
English 336-002
Ever wish the jazzy sound of the 1920’s could fill the air? Luckily, some bands are specifically dedicated to the infectious sound and rhythm produced by the soulful genre. If there is any doubt about having quality early jazz in this decade, a simple Google search for Sugar Foot Stompers can satisfy any jazz lovers thirst for genuine music.
Sugar Foot Stompers performed at the Compton Stage at 1:20 on Frostburg State University’s campus Saturday, September 17, 2011. Once at the Appalachian Festival, attention is automatically redirected to the smooth trombone and foot tapping melody from the twanging banjo coming from down the Quad. Whether you chose to sit under the sun on this chilly autumn like day or at a table under a tent, the music would still sound as clear and catchy as it did when it caught your ear.
It is easy to tell that this was going to be an amazing show. People from atop the hill were pointing down to Sugar Foot Stompers, urging their friends to join them as they go down to watch. Grandparents were bopping to the music with their grandchildren and college students were swaying to the music proving how non-discriminatory their music was.
These charismatic guys kept the audience captivated with their “Chicago” (the musical) style music. The group stated that they’re inspired by the early 1917 Jazz sound from down in New Orleans.
Who are these guys exactly? Well, there is Tom Simpson on the Trumpet, Gino Mauricci on the Clarinet, Steve Voritern with the trombone, Stephan Moylan on banjo, and Matt Eary on the jazzy double bass. Each man has mastered his instrument, making it seem as though producing that wonderful sound were easy (though the fact that it is simply an illusion goes without saying).
Watching Gino’s Fingers dance along the clarinet with such precise choreography or hearing that buttery vibrato coming from Tom’s trumpet would make you think that all these fella’s ever do is practice, practice, practice, right? Turns out, all of them have full time jobs and meet on Monday’s at the most. Stephan Moylan willingly added “I wish it were my job!” with a chuckle and a smirk. They explained that though their schedules don’t really match up, they manage to get together and practice while they do gigs. After being together for 4-5 years, it’s not hard to understand how they can just make music happen. Steve Vortigern, the trombonist, admits to loving the “enjoyment of the improvisation” that it takes to create music.
Though Tom, Gino and Steve all went to school for music, all 5 guys were in Garrett County community band and joined together to make Sugar Foot Stompers. When asked about how the group started, the obvious jokester of the group, Tom Simpson declared that “there was something about free beer…” but clearly, his love for music outweighed his want to crack open a nice cold one.
So come along! If anyone needs some sincere, soulful jazz in their life, make sure to put Sugar Foot Stompers name at the top of their list to try out. Honestly, there is no way or reason to do anything but love this band.
Appalachian Festival: http://www.appindie.org/index.php/appalachian-culture/55-appalachian-culture/2623-fsus-2011-appalachian-festival-to-celebrate-regions-unique-culture
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