Down Where The Bluebonnets Grow
Turtle Bay, 2024
8/10
Listen to Down Where The Bluebonnets Grow
An Austin outfit spearheaded by the multi-instrumentalist Colin Hancock, this first recording by The Joymakers takes us back many decades for a nostalgic jazz listen.
The energetic and dance floor ready “Papa’s Gone” begins the record with lively horns and Ryan Neubauer’s animated drums, and “I’m A Thousand Miles From Home” follows with a slower pace via Lauryn Gould’s distinct voice amid Dylan Blackthorn’s playful keys.
Further along, “Everybody Stomp” showcases Shane Dickens’ flowing piano alongside the bouncy brass, while “Tia Juana” allows for the rich saxophones to shine, although David Jellema’s meticulous clarinet doesn’t disappoint, either.
Arriving close to the end, “Hot Aire”, the record’s best, is a festive moment of dynamic and rhythmic song craft that sounds as great today as it would have in 1920, and “Tiger Rag” finishes with speedy and retro flavor that seems like it should soundtrack a night at a speakeasy.
An aptly titled band, it’s difficult not to find yourself smiling through these stompin’ and solo-friendly tracks that transport us back a century.
Travels well with: John Fedchock- Justifiaby J.J.; Matt Booth- Sun Prints