Steamboat Stomp by Steamboat Stompers: A Swedish Jazz Gem That’ll Make You Tap Your Feet (and Maybe Spill Your Coffee)
Alright, folks, let’s talk about Steamboat Stomp, the 1955 jazz album from Sweden that somehow manages to feel both nostalgic and fresh at the same time. Released on B.R.A. Record, this little slice of history is brought to life by a killer lineup: Johan Norman on clarinet, Buddy Hermelin on drums, Bo Persson tickling the ivories, Göran Sjölin blowing that trumpet, and Lindstedt holding it down with some serious tuba vibes. If you’re into classic jazz with a Nordic twist, buckle up—this one’s for you.
Now, I gotta say, not every track slapped me in the face (in a good way), but two numbers stood out like a sore thumb—or rather, like a really cool tattoo you can’t stop staring at. First up: Tischomingo Blues. This tune has got swagger. The clarinet dances around like it just discovered espresso, while the tuba adds this delightful oomph that makes you wanna grab someone and waltz—even if you don’t know how to waltz. It’s bluesy, jazzy, and kinda cheeky all at once. Like your favorite uncle who tells terrible jokes but somehow always gets a laugh.
Then there’s the title track, Steamboat Stomp. Oh man, this one’s a banger. Göran Sjölin’s trumpet work here deserves its own parade. I mean, seriously, the guy could probably wake up a hibernating bear with those riffs. And when Bo Persson jumps in with his piano? Forget about it. My cat started doing laps around the living room, which is basically her version of standing ovation. This track feels like being on a riverboat cruise, except instead of sipping fancy cocktails, you’re chugging cheap beer and loving every second of it.
What makes this album special isn’t just the music—it’s the vibe. These guys weren’t trying to reinvent jazz; they were having fun. You can hear it in every note, every syncopated beat. Sure, the recording quality might remind you of an old rotary phone call, but honestly? That just adds charm.
So yeah, Steamboat Stomp isn’t perfect. But perfection’s overrated anyway. What it does do is give you a reason to smile, tap your toes, and maybe even attempt a clumsy Charleston move in your kitchen. And hey, if nothing else, listening to this record will make you realize how much better tubas are than people give them credit for. Who knew tubas could swing so hard?
Final thought: If aliens ever invade Earth, we should totally blast this album into space as proof that humans can party. Just saying.
