Left Bank Bearcats

Biography

The Left Bank Bearcats were a studio jazz ensemble active in the late 1950s and early 1960s, primarily known for their Dixieland recordings. The group was assembled by producers working for budget labels such as Somerset, with the intention of capitalizing on the popularity of Dixieland jazz and the commercial success of bands like the Dukes of Dixieland. The musicians were largely anonymous, with some records using pseudonyms; for example, trumpeter Joe Techer was credited as 'Aron Dubois' on several albums[2][4].

The Bearcats recorded a series of albums that featured energetic renditions of Dixieland standards and American popular songs, including themed releases such as 'The Left Bank Bearcats Take George M. Cohan to Dixieland.' Their musical style was characterized by lively ensemble playing, strong rhythmic drive, and a repertoire that blended New Orleans jazz with popular tunes of the era[5]. While not a touring or performing band, their studio output contributed to the mid-century jazz revival and made Dixieland accessible to a wider audience through affordable records sold in department stores and supermarkets[4].

Though the Left Bank Bearcats themselves did not achieve lasting fame, their recordings are representative of the era's studio jazz projects. The group’s legacy lies in their role as part of the wave of budget-label jazz releases that helped keep traditional jazz styles in circulation during a period of changing musical tastes. Their albums remain of interest to collectors and jazz historians as examples of the commercial strategies and musical trends of the time[4][5].

Fun Facts

• The band name 'Left Bank Bearcats' was likely chosen to evoke a sense of Parisian jazz cool, though the group was American and studio-based.
• Most band members were credited under pseudonyms, making it difficult to trace their true identities.
• The Bearcats' albums were produced as budget releases, often sold in supermarkets and department stores rather than traditional record shops.
• Despite their obscurity, Bearcats recordings are sought after by collectors for their period charm and distinctive arrangements.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Dukes of Dixieland - The Bearcats' style and repertoire were directly inspired by the success and musical approach of the Dukes of Dixieland. (General Dixieland repertoire) [1950s]

Key Collaborators

• Joe Techer (credited as Aron Dubois) - Principal trumpet player on three Bearcats albums, using a pseudonym for contractual reasons. (Left Bank Bearcats Dixieland albums) [Late 1950s–early 1960s]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Shakin' with B.B. (The Left Bank Bearcats in Stereo! (Remastered from the Original Somerset Tapes))
2. Mississippi Rag (Dixieland: Le Jazz Hot Recorded in Paris (Remastered from the Original Somerset Tapes))
3. Mighty Lak a Rose (Speakeasy Blues: Bar Tunes from the Prohibition Era)
4. When the Saints Go Marching In (Up For the Cup: Football Songs)
5. When the Saints Go Marching In (All Together Now: The Football Club Anthems)
6. When the Saints Go Marching In (Up For the Cup: Football Songs)
7. Shakin' with B.B. (1920s Dance Craze: The Hottest Hits of the Jazz Age (Lindy Hop, Charleston, Shimmy, and More))
8. When the Saints Go Marching In (All Together Now: The Football Club Anthems)
9. Muskrat Ramble (The Left Bank Bearcats in Stereo! (Remastered from the Original Somerset Tapes))
10. Royal Garden Blues (The Left Bank Bearcats in Stereo! (Remastered from the Original Somerset Tapes))

External Links

• Spotify