And here it is: their long awaited and much anticipated debut album finally hits the stores this spring. Scallymatic Orchestra has been a growing force on the Dutch (nu-)jazz scene ever since they started out in 2000. This album captures the spirit of eight years of playing, and contains compositions written throughout that period.

Their fresh mix of jazz with soul-, funk- and 70s grooves has a distinct modern sound with a slight retro touch, which may be described as The Scallymatic Sound. With catchy grooves, cool themes, enough room for improvisation and a good dose of suspense, the band convinces both club crowds and the discerning listener. Scallymatic Orchestra plays original composition by guitarist/bandleader Mathijs Duringhof.

The album contains several interesting features, which contribute to the already very versatile album:

Singer Paul van Kessel (WickedJazzSounds/Young Sinatras) features on three outstanding songs. Two originals by Mathijs and Paul (the soul/r&b influenced ‘Jasmin’ and the epic ‘The MC’) and a surprising version of Steely Dan’s ‘Do it again’.

Percussionist from the early days Wieke Garcia gives her beautiful voice to the sultry ‘Groovy Couple’, making it even more soft-focus…

Keys master at work Stefan Schmid from the Dutch outfit Zuco 103 took out his big Moog for some heavy soloing on ‘Groovy Couple’, leading in the drum&bass felt ending.

Last but not least, we have Han Litz featuring on flutes. The last track on the album, ‘Cloud City’ is indeed the place where Han Solo was captured. One of the conceivers of the Kindred Spirits Ensemble and strong force with the Flowriders, Han is the Man!

If this is not enough, there’s the beautiful & catchy funkymellow popjazz song ‘All I can give’ with Mr. Benny Sings (Dox/Sonar Kollektiv). Not on the album, but as a download release (free if you buy the cd) and on exclusive limited 7″ vinyl [fhr009].

The cover art on the album should be mentioned, too. The pencil drawing ‘Annie get your gun’ is by internationally renowned Dutch artist Marcel van Eeden (The Hague, 1964).

Release

BUY:

Scallymatic Orchestra – Annie get your gun