The Swampwater Jazz Band plays classic jazz and swing, but with a
freshness and enthusiasm that keep it in constant demand even after
25 years. The band features a 'double reed' front line with leader
soprano saxophonist Robert (Bob) Godkin, backed by the clarinet
and bass clarinet of John Palmer, to produce a more melodic,
accessible sound than similar bands. Jacques Waisvisz rounds out
the front line on trombone. The rhythm section consists of Chris Daly
on drums, Larry Wilson on bass and harmonica, Ed Lascelle on banjo
and David Simmonds on keyboard and guitar. The band's repertoire
includes Dixieland, old popular songs, swing and dance numbers - as
well as some blues and rock. The band has one objective: to make
people happy through music. Its motto: "Swampwater, better for you
than aspirin, red wine or broccoli". The band performs at many
charitable functions, but will happily play weddings, dances, corporate
functions, barbecues - - wherever happy music is required.
Members of the band are:
Chris Daly (drums)
He has played with several marching and blues bands over the years.
Chris is a founding member (1976) and manager of the band.
Robert (Bob) Godkin (soprano/tenor sax, vocals)
Bob has played with bands as diverse as the Governor General's
Footguards, Con and the Cruisers - a rock band from the 60's, Fowler
Street Ensemble - a pop group in the 70's, Old Grass Survival - a
bluegrass band from the 80's and the Glebop Jazz Quintet in the
90’s. He originally joined Swampwater in 1994 on clarinet. After
leaving the group in 1998, he returned to the group in 2001 as lead
on soprano sax à la Sidney Bechet, and musical director.
Jacques Waisvisz (slide-trombone, vocals)
During Jacques’ earlier years in Ottawa, he played with the Capital
City Jazz Band that was led by renowned Ottawa Dixieland musician,
Gordon Bennett. Jacques, while working for the Federal Government
in Tokyo and Germany, had an opportunity to play with bands in
those countries also. He joined Swampwater in 1988.
Larry Wilson (bass)
Larry's musical background includes over 35 years with such Ottawa
bands as Cy Smith's "4 x 3 + 1," the Grey Jazz Band and Swing
Junction, playing both rhythm guitar and bass. In addition, he will play
harmonica with any group that will let him. He joined Swampwater in
1998.
Ed Lascelle (banjo, rhythm guitar, vocals)
Ed is the newest member of Swampwater (2003) but has been
playing Dixieland style over the past 20 years in a number of local
bands such as the KMA Dixie Band and the Trillium Dixieland Jazz
Band. He continues to be active with Trillium and a local Kanata
band called the Mellowtones. Ed has had considerable experience in
a number of vocal groups (including barbershop).
John Palmer (clarinet, bass clarinet, vocals)
John has played clarinet since his youth, internalizing the music of
the classic jazz and swing masters through avid listening, but not
actively pursuing public performance until 1996. Since 1998, John
has realized a long-held dream playing with Swampwater, and has
had occasional great moments with Arthur Grainge, Derek
Robertson, Souper Jazz, and the Glebop Trio. Since 1992, he has
added the mellow darkness of the bass clarinet to his music.
David Simmonds (piano, occasional guitar, vocals)
David loves playing traditional jazz music "because it makes me feel
old". David is also a keen folk/bluegrass musician and also a
songwriter whose songs have been performed by numerous local
artists.
For bookings or further information, please call Chris Daly at (613)
824-3629
