Song Samples On Us:
Co-op Bop: The Life Of Jazz
CO-OP BOP is an exciting instrumental Sextet. The backbone of which is fueled by a standard Hammond B3 Organ trio with Guitar and Drums. A trumpet, Alto Sax and Tenor Sax round out this dynamic ensemble.
Members of this exciting group have been performing together for over six decades with some relationships dating back to childhood. Their repertoire touches on almost all of jazz history. (More about that later)
While each member has made their respective careers freelancing within the vastly diverse music business, they are excited to announce that they have added a vocal presence to their already huge library of arrangements and compositions.
While this group has primarily been a regional favorite, today they find themselves among the ranks of the senior citizen community. (Perhaps they can be compared to fine wine?) Either way this now makes them able to dedicate time to the idea of touring and showcasing their signature sound to a wider audience. Coming your way soon?
WHAT EXACTLY IS JAZZ?
A short history lesson :
There are many varied ideas that people believe. In short this American Art Form has been in constant development over the past 100 years.
Through time it has constantly been shaped and driven by one great artist after another. Then consider all the cultural influences that have shaped our "Melting pot" society and the genres within become even more diverse and signature.
Whether it be Dixieland, Swing, Cool, Be-bop, Hard bop, Jazz-Rock Fusion, Free, Latin or Smoothe - one style or another is sure to enamore you. All you need to do is keep an open mind and do a little listening. FYI- CO-OP BOP offers a dynamic History of Jazz program
The Story Of Cucumbersville
Story you ask?
Every Song has a story...
Trumpet Alan Gaumer served as a featured soloist with the Navy Band. This song was influenced by personal experiences on one of his many worldwide tours. Having finished playing a gig at the American Ambassador's residence in Buenos Aires, Argentina, the Ambassador's personal secretary complimented them and asked if they would like to be taken to a local jazz club? The only question being- it's pretty late. Are you sure it is still happening?
She assured them that indeed Argentina is know for its late night festivities. Upon arriving at the club, Alan was immediately impressed by what he heard. Within 5 minutes the Argentinian trumpeter had spotted Alan at the bar with his trumpet and invited him up to play. On the break, he asked Alan- Do you know RANDY BRECKER?. His reply- “I know who he is but have never met him. “Well- he is sitting at the end of the bar.” The three trumpet players (Alan, Randy & Fats) ended up playing to a packed house until after dawn. Naturally there is much more to this story. The punch line of this story? Inspired by this experience and his appreciation of the BRECKER BROTHERS, Alan wrote “Cucumbersville” which has become one of Co-op Bop's biggest hits.