Classic Swing with a Modern Drive CD

Available through cdbaby.com

For years Greg Caputo harbored a dream to record his own big band, featuring elite world-class musicians — alumni from such bands as Buddy Rich, Maynard Ferguson, Tommy Dorsey, Stan Kenton, Artie Shaw, with whom he performed throughout his career. This dream became a reality as the Greg Caputo Big Band performed to a sold-out audience at the Majestic Theater in West Springfield, MA. This is a true live recording of that performance. All the charts on this CD are single takes; there were no long rehearsals or endless hours in the studio overdubbing parts. This is the way Greg wanted it — the enthusiasm of a live audience fueling a spontaneous, improvisational performance. Greg’s dream was surpassed with the addition of jazz legend, alto saxophonist, Phil Woods as guest artist, performing two of his stunning original compositions, Old Dude and Goodbye Mr. Evans. In addition, Phil’s accompaniment of Vivian on Skylark is one of the highlights of the recording. On this special night Greg led 17 of America’s swingingest musicians along with a great vocalist on a fabulous jazz concert experience!

Classic Swing Drumming – Methods and Techniques for the Development of the Swing Feel, by Greg Caputo

Available through hudsonmusic.com

Classic Swing Drumming represents the culmination of knowledge accumulated during Gregory Caputo’s illustrious 40 years of professional drumming for legendary big bands and nationally recognized jazz artists and vocalists. The focus of the text is on “Methods and Techniques for the Development of the Swing Feel”. The book opens with a forward by alto sax jazz legend Phil Woods and an introduction by Dave Brubeck. Included is the history of the development of the jazz swing feel, historical photos and reflections of many national jazz artists on what they require from their drummers. The text explains exactly what the swing feel is and provides exercises on how to instill the swing feel into your drumming. With diligent study drummers will achieve improved time pulse, dynamics, endurance, dexterity, and coordinated independence. Attention is given to swing comping, swing feel, an explanation of beat placement, swing motives, Big Band set up analysis and components of a musical drum solo. Included are articles on the dazzling talent of Buddy Rich by Mel Torme and observations of Buddy’s playing from members of his band.