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The Story so far…
The Slammers Maximum Jive Band began in October 2004; Ex-Alabama Slammers Neale (Bass) and Claire (Piano) had met up with drummer Gary and guitarist Scott of the Jive Cats, and were advertising for Saxophone Players to complete a new band. James (Vocals, Baritone
Sax and Harmonica) came across the advert whilst searching for a second-hand
fridge! Top Alto and Tenor Sax-Man Big Scott also answered the ad, and the
resultant audition was a blast! This original line-up gelled immediately,
rehearsing eagerly. James’ vocal
talents were soon to the fore, and the year ended with a storming debut
performance at Chelmsford Southern Jivers’ Club. 2005 began with the
release of a 3-track demo CD and the first appearance of the Band’s dapper
stage outfits. New tenor saxophonist Andy’s stunning Sam Butera-inspired solos
lifted the band’s live shows to new highs at a series of successful
performances, including London’s 100 Club, Brighton Jive and Shoreham RnR
Club. The excitement, enjoyment and passion within the band was infectious,
capturing attention, repeat bookings and a growing following. A busy schedule of gigs
at the end of 2005 brought a change in the Band's line-up, with Scott’s
increasing outside commitments leading to him eventually standing down.
Guitarist Smokin’ Bob stepped in seamlessly, bringing new quality to the
backing vocal harmonies. In February 2006 the
Band spent 4 days in the recording studio, laying down material for their first
CD, which is planned for release on Pollytone Records later in the year. The
Band enjoyed further touring, including London’s Swamp Rock,
the BAWA Club in Bristol and heady
nights at the 100 Club with guest trumpeter Toby, but were sad to lose Big Scott,
who is now taking a sabbatical from sax playing. The highlight of the year came in October; the "gigathon" at the Kinsale Jazz Festival in Ireland. This amazing weekend sees the town buzzing with live jazz and blues, with everyone out for a great time, revelling in the music, wallowing in the warmly intoxicating atmosphere. The Slammers' six gigs raised the roof, the band had the time of their lives, the rapturous reception thrilling beyond words. With the end of 2006 came yet another gigging highlight - a whirlwind weekend in Greece, playing at the newly opened Planet Music venue in Athens. Two outstanding nights, not to mention stunning daytime sightseeing! 2007 - A new year, new faces; the band welcomed new members Sharon (trumpet) and Mike (trombone) to the ever more powerful line-up. Festival appearances got the summer off to a cracking start, with top performances at Warrington BluesFest and the Midsummer Music Jazz Festival in Essex prompting instant re-bookings...check out the live recordings and photos here on the website. After a frustrating series of delays culminating in a change of record label, the long awaited CD "Jive Time" was released on El Toro Records in October. Immediately selling well, it listed in the HMV top ten of pre-ordered RnR new releases, and can be found on itunes and most internet cd retailers. A huge crowd enjoyed
the band's high-energy show at the Thames
Festival on the Southbank...a helter skelter ride indeed! (see the clips
on youtube)
Another warm welcome awaited in Ireland - the band
were delighted
to return to the Kinsale Jazz Festival to headline a superb line-up at the
Swell Bar. Year end, and an early morning call saw the band crowding into the BBC Radio London studio, playing live on the breakfast show! A busy month of gigging climaxed with the 2007 New Year's Eve Party - a fabulous "Back to the Future" themed night at Blackheath Halls featuring the Slammers in the 1950's styled ballroom, and some startling pyrotechnics! Reading Real Ale and Jazz Festival was one of 2008's summer highlights, a packed dancefloor and noisily appreciative crowd. A second CD was released in August at Bude Jazz Festival, where the band rocked the "Dance Tent" and featured live on the BBC Radio Cornwall airwaves. The CD "Hey There You!" is a live recording from Warrington Blues Festival 2007, capturing all the energy, excitement and fun of the Slammer Show on disc.
"Pick of the Festival.....guaranteed to get you moving." - Kinsale Jazz Festival Magazine 2007
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