Jim Kweskin Quartet with Samoa Wilson – Swarthmore, PA

Jim Kweskin Quartet with Samoa Wilson at Park Avenue Community Center

Experience a night of musical brilliance. “Samoa Wilson and Jim Kweskin have delved intothat phenomeonon by creating timeless kusic that seems to leap from and old black and white movie or a mint 78rpm shellac”. Neil Strauss of the New York Times went on to describe Samoa Wilson as having “a sweet, effortless, old-timey voice that she was able to sustain perfectly”.

Jim Kweskin

Jim Kweskin is an influential American musician, best known as the founder and leader of the Jim Kweskin Jug Band, a group that was pivotal in the revival of jug band music in the 1960s. Kweskin has enjoyed a long and varied career in music, marked by his eclectic taste and innovative approach to traditional American genres.

Kweskin’s musical journey began in the folk music scene of the late 1950s and early 1960s. He was deeply influenced by traditional jazz, blues, and ragtime, as well as by early American folk music. In 1963, he formed the Jim Kweskin Jug Band, which included talented musicians such as Geoff Muldaur, Maria Muldaur (then Maria D’Amato), and Fritz Richmond. The band became known for their lively and humorous performances, blending folk, blues, jazz, and jug band music with a modern sensibility.

The Jim Kweskin Jug Band released several albums on the Vanguard label, including their debut “Unblushing Brassiness” (1963), “Jug Band Music” (1965), and “Garden of Joy” (1967). Their unique sound and engaging performances earned them a dedicated following and a lasting legacy in American folk music.

After the Jug Band disbanded in 1968, Kweskin pursued solo projects and collaborations. He continued to perform and record, exploring a wide range of musical styles. His work includes solo albums such as “Relax Your Mind” (1970) and collaborations with other artists, including his wife, singer Meredith Axelrod.

Jim Kweskin remains an active and respected figure in the folk and traditional music scenes. His contributions to the revival and preservation of American roots music have made a lasting impact, inspiring generations of musicians.

Samoa Wilson

Samoa Wilson is a gifted American singer known for her work in jazz, blues, and folk music. She has gained acclaim for her powerful voice, emotive performances, and deep understanding of traditional American music.

Wilson grew up in a musical family and was exposed to a wide range of genres from an early age. She developed a passion for singing and honed her craft by performing in various settings, from intimate clubs to larger concert venues. Her versatile voice and ability to convey emotion through song quickly set her apart as a talented and unique artist.

Samoa Wilson’s collaboration with Jim Kweskin has been particularly notable. Together, they have created a dynamic musical partnership that blends Kweskin’s expertise in traditional American music with Wilson’s soulful and expressive vocal style. Their performances often feature a mix of jazz, blues, and folk tunes, delivered with a fresh and contemporary twist.

In addition to her work with Kweskin, Wilson has also pursued solo projects and collaborated with other notable musicians. She released the album “I Just Want to Be Horizontal” (2019) with the Jim Kweskin Band, which showcases her ability to interpret and breathe new life into classic songs.

Wilson’s dedication to her craft and her passion for music shine through in every performance. She continues to build a reputation as a compelling and dynamic artist, contributing to the rich tapestry of American music.

Together, Jim Kweskin and Samoa Wilson represent a unique and powerful collaboration in the world of traditional American music, bringing timeless songs to new audiences with their combined talents and deep musical connection.

jimkweskin.com

samoawilson.com