places+spaces presents Crusty Suitcase in music@the factory November 5, 2008

Formed in early 2007, this fresh group is a tight blend of old school instrumentation - pure horns and drums. From Mexico, Cuba, and Jamaica, to Africa, India, and Europe, horn and drum music has rocked universal dance floors long before the days of amplification, and The Crusty Suitcase band can keep a dance floor moving with PA or without. Best described as “gyp hop”, CSB is a powerhouse of horn music from all over the globe, with a funkified, hip hop approach driving the arrangements and placing the music in a brand new genre.

An ancient combination in a technological era, The Crusty Suitcase Band will appeal to all ages. Playing big band arrangements of DJ Shadow, Cyprus Hill, James Brown, and Grand Master Flash while celebrating the complex harmonies and rhythms of the swing/ jazz era, original tunes weave it all together.

The brainchild of Ben Walsh (The Bird, Pablo Percusso, Circle of Rhythm, Taikoz, Tom Tom Club), this outfit is driven by his trademark high energy drumming and also performs his original compositions. Sydney Jazz legend Matt Ottignon is the other featured talent leading the horn section and playing clarinet, flute, tenor and soprano saxophone. This is one serious party band rich in music for all people, with some old skool phat breaks guaranteed to give you a smile from ear to ear, and keep your booty moving.

Old Hat is a collection of 6 songs that will give the listener a crash course in the flavour of The Crusty Suitcase Band - from the dirty cop soundtrack-like funk of 'Matched Luggage' to the anthemic dub outro of 'Flying to my homeland'.

BOOKINGS OPEN SOON
Tickets $25 adult, $15 concession for students, Jazzgroove Association members and pensioners