Squirrel Nut Zippers Headline Swing Bash at Butternut

Squirrel Nut Zippers

(GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass.) – Neo-swing revivalists Squirrel Nut Zippers headline the Hot Summer Swing Bash at Ski Butternut on Saturday, August 26. The daylong event features performances by the Lucky 5, Blue Light Trio, and others, running from 3 to 8pm.

Squirrel Nut Zippers play a high-energy fusion of Delta blues, Gypsy jazz, 1930s-era swing, klezmer, and other styles. The group found commercial success during the 1990s neo-swing revival, of which they were a leading force. The band’s influences include Cab Calloway, Johnny Ace, Raymond Scott, Fats Waller, Django Reinhardt, and Tom Waits.

The Lucky 5 is a hard-swinging jazz band that blends swing and Gypsy jazz to create a unique, foot-stomping blend of music that appeals to a wide range of music lovers. The Lucky 5 performs original compositions and puts a new spin on old jazz standards. Bandmembers include Don Mikkelsen on trombone, Matt Downing on bass, Jonathan Talbott on violin, Kip Beacco on guitar and vocals, and Brian Kantor on drums.

The Lucky 5

The Blue Light Trio has been a staple of the Berkshires music scene for the past nine years. Founding members Sam Rosen (guitar) and Jerry Link (bass) are joined by Richard Downs (brass, vocals) and Jack DiNicola (drums) to create their signature swing sound. Sam Rosen, in addition to his formidable guitar skills, is an accomplished (if eccentric) freestyle rapper. Jerry Link played around New York City for many years with legendary New York guitarist Phil Sudo. Jack DiNicola made his debut at the North Adams Inn in the early 1980s and has been active on the local scene ever since, following in the footsteps of his father, Dick (who is still an active drummer).  Richard Downs is a hometown hero music teacher, bandleader, and all-around great musician.

Tickets are $40 in advance, $50 at the door, Limited Quantity $100 VIP Package includes exclusive seating and post-party with artists. Kids 12 and under are free. Free parking; bring blankets and chairs.

Hot Summer Swing Bash is a coproduction of the Barn at Egremont Village Inn and Berkshire Bash.

 

 

 

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