 Each of the members of the ZydeCohos has been playing music professionally for an average of twenty five years, with musical experience ranging from traditional string bands, Cajun, country, swing, jazz, rock, blues and classical. This varied experience is a good fit for what zydeco music brings to the table. It is a well-stirred gumbo of Creole music from southwest Louisiana and east Texas, as well as spices of Afro-Caribbean pop, reggae, swing, blues, rhythm and blues, country, and just about any other “spice” that one wants to add to it to make it their own. Tempos range from the high-energy zydeco double-clutchin’ numbers, two steps and shuffles, slow snuggle tunes, to traditional Cajun waltzes. The ZydeCohos have been playing together since early Spring of 2002, and have already established a huge following of die-hard fans that can’t resist the urge to get out on the dance floor when their infectious music starts playing. They have packed the dance floors from Kodiak to Denali playing at conventions, company socials, weddings, dance halls, benefits and city celebrations. They have opened for Tom Rigney & Flambeau and the great zydeco accordionist, Chubby Carrier, at the Alaska State Fair. They invite audience members to sing along on familiar tunes, and often have them join the band by playing the rubboard. The members of the ZydeCohos are Ellen Nash on accordion, Brian DeMarcus on bass, Karl Wilhelmi on guitar, Jason Bent on fiddle and rubboard, and Robbie Soares on drums. All of the members of the ZydeCohos share the singing duties, making this swamp boogie band a high-energy, good-time band to have for any occasion. |