Straphangin

About

Formed in 2019 to showcase the music of The Brecker Brothers to a larger audience, Straphangin' is a premier jazz fusion group in the USA and world. Based in Denver, CO., Trumpet/EVI player, James Barela, and Saxophonist, Doug Carmichael, have established an ensemble that displays all of the high energy, genre-infused sounds, and deep soul that The Brecker Brothers first introduced to audiences in 1974! Straphangin' is named after the greasy funk tune by The Brecker Brothers and tribute is given aptly in each and every tune they perform. Straphangin's repertoire covers many of The Brecker Brothers greatest hits as well as those from legends like Herbie Hancock, Mike Stern, Steps Ahead, Pat Metheny, David Sanborn, Miles Davis, and more to present a showcase of virtuosity, hip shaking grooves, aural enlightenment, and fun! Heavy Metal Bebop was a term coined by The Brecker Brothers and that level of energy seduces audiences into wanting more.

Straphangin' is comprised of six of the most brave and respected musicians in the Denver area with:
James Barela on trumpet and electronic valve instrument
Doug Carmichael on saxophone and assorted woodwinds
Rich Benge on guitar
DeAnn Dickinson on keyboards
Byron Dudrey on bass
Derek Swink on drums

Each member brings with them decades of professional experience from across the nation.

The Brecker Brothers, Michael and Randy Brecker, formed their group around 1974 and their music is well known to those in all circles of the music industry as a groundbreaking ensemble fusing jazz, rock, soul, R&B, latin and world music. Songs like Some Skunk Funk, Sponge, Straphangin', Funky Sea Funky Dew, Not Ethiopia, Squids, Song for Barry, and many more have shaped the jazz spectrum since the groups inception. Their music continues to influence jazz music to this day and still entertains and engages audiences around the world.

To book Straphangin' at your festival, club, or event:
Straphangin' Management
straphangindenver@gmail.com
(702) 813-4766