So, this is an update from my mid December post regarding SWELL. Tonight is my first 'official' gig with SWELL and I'm a bit nervous (all of a sudden). I have been sitting in with the swing band, SWELL, since the end of last year, after their previous drummer elected to move on. Between the end of 2019 and the start of 2020 I was offered the job of primary percussionist, which I graciously accepted.
SWELL is no ordinary band. The performances consist of a mix of vintage Swing, Latin, Soul, top-40 and more... Needless to say, SWELL sounds like no other group I have performed with. Mollie Morrison, the band innovator/manager, is also our lead vocalist. David Kitchen plays guitar and my old buddy, Scott McMahon, is holding down the upright bass. Scott and David sing too. I don't usually say or sing much because I can't walk and chew gum at the same time. LOL.
The drums with SWELL are another story. There is NO DRUM KIT used with SWELL. Instead, a variety of percussion instruments are assembled and must be used to create all the drum sounds. What makes it difficult is that the music is very diverse and usually full of energy. I have a bass drum (with a SWELL logo) and that's it for actual drums.
A cajon, bongos, cymbals and other hand percussion instruments make up the remainder of the kit. You've got to hear it to believe it.
Keep an eye out for us during the spring and summer for upcoming performances in Falls Church, Herdon, DC and other SWELL locations!
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