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The KSO brings back the Swing Revival of the 90s with the Covington Devou-Doo Daddies Aug. 1


The Swing Revival of the 1990s culminated in 1998 with the “Summer of Swing” as various neo-swing bands (Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, Royal Crown Revue, Brian Setzer Orchestra, Squirrel Nut Zippers and the Cherry Poppin’ Daddies) were charging up the charts. That year the Lindy Hop and jump swing dances of the 1930-40s were featured on the GAP’s Khaki Swing commercial. The younger generation, coming out of the punk/grunge era of pop music, saw the resurgence of partner dancing (which ended with the Twist in the early 60s) as a return to elegance (three piece suits) and as a social activity that was fun and showy.

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The fusion of the old jazz and swing with modern rock made for some great energetic up-beat music, which the KSO enthusiastically recreates with the introduction of its newest subsidiary group — The Covington Devou-Doo Daddies (taken from the name of the park). This 10-piece show band along with the other KSO authentic spin-off groups (Newport Ragtime Band, Flood Wall Jazz Quintet, KSO Boogie Band), allows the symphony to focus on a style/era of music that is unique and rarely heard in local live performance today.

The playlist (see below) for the Devou-Doo Daddies Devou debut (say that five times quickly), includes tunes heard in the Jim Carey film The Mask, Swingers, Dancing with the Stars as well as the CPD’s big hit “Zoot Suit Riot.” Troy Hitch, long-time local entertainer and marketing guru at Barefoot Proximity fronts the band with his flair for outrageous vocals (a few weeks ago he sang songs by The Bee Gees and Ray Stevens with the KSO Boogie Band).

“For anyone that swing dances or just loves infectious, high energy music that makes you smile, this show and band is a guaranteed great time,” KSO music director James Cassidy said. “Comprised of the region’s great jazz musicians, the polish, drive and feel of this group is truly amazing.”

Picnics are welcome, and KSO concessions are stocked with snacks and soft drinks. Dominos Pizza and Kona Ice and possibly others will be on site. Join the KSO for the Symphony’s 21st Summer in Devou Park, Saturday, Aug. 1 at 7:30 p.m. The Western Ave. entrance to Devou Park has been reopened this year. The TANK Shuttle from Covington Catholic to the band shell runs from 6 – 7:30 p.m. for $1 each way. Bring blankets or lawn chairs. Free admission and parking, Donations are suggested (a challenge grant will match all donations received).

For more information, visit the KSO at www.kyso.org or call (859) 431-6216.

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From KSO


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