| by Allana Wooley |Bringing a piece of the atmosphere of the "30s and "40s to Fort Worth's nightclub scene is Chuck Compher and Larry Harrison's big band, The Jazz Monsters. "Authentic, that's the word," Compher said, proudly describing the band. "Authentic, big band jazz."
Formed in 1997, The Jazz Monsters resemble actual monsters only in the big, bold roars of their horns. The 20-piece band, with five saxophones, trumpets, trombones and rhythm pieces alike, is reminiscent of the big jazz bands that bolstered the nation's spirit following World War II.
The Jazz Monsters approach the music they play in a similar style. "We are here for education as well," Compher says. "We play at area high schools to help bands with fundraising and to expose students to a jazz experience they wouldn't have the opportunity to hear otherwise."
Getting the attention of young people early in their careers isn't just good for the future of jazz music and jazz appreciation; it's good for business. Originally a group of local band directors, The Jazz Monsters now include many former pupils who found their passion for jazz at an early age and have since spent years honing their musical abilities.
Compher becomes most animated when talking about the talent of his group of musicians. Together, the musicians are dynamic, their instrumental skills enough to flood a room with charged, unrehearsed, spontaneous energy.
"I like to bring excitement and to have people cheering and going crazy," Compher says. "I don't want subdued. People can get really verbally responsive. I want them to get up and dance. When the audience is receptive, it inspires the people in the band."
If you can't make it out for the big band experience on Sundays, you can still catch authentic jazz, with an improvisational flair, in Compher's second band, PantherJazz. Formed in January, the eight-piece group can be found at Embargo from 8 - 10:30 p.m., the first Tuesday of each month.
To book The Jazz Monsters for clubs, dances, events and more, email Larry Harrison (larrybh6@s) or Chuck Compher ([email protected]).
