Sabertooth Swing

Biography

Sabertooth Swing is a New Orleans-based swing jazz ensemble founded by guitarist and producer Romain Beauxis. The band traces its origins to the vibrant local swing dance community, where their energetic performances quickly became a staple for dancers and jazz aficionados alike[1][2][6]. Drawing from the rich musical heritage of New Orleans, Sabertooth Swing blends traditional swing idioms with modern arrangements, infusing their sound with influences from blues, zydeco, Cajun, and Caribbean styles[5][6]. Their musicianship is marked by a commitment to both fun and depth, offering music that is equally suited for lively dancing or serious listening[1][2].

The group’s career development is highlighted by ambitious projects such as their second album, 'Delta Bound,' which explores the complex history of violence and cultural confluence in Louisiana through a mix of original compositions, traditional songs, and spoken word collaborations with poets, activists, and historical figures[3][5][10]. Sabertooth Swing’s lineup includes core members and a rotating cast of guest artists, contributing to the diversity and richness of their recordings. Their most recent EP, 'Songs of Future Past,' emerged from late-night blues dance sessions and was shaped by the pandemic, reflecting themes of time, memory, and storytelling[1].

Sabertooth Swing’s legacy is rooted in their ability to bridge eras and genres, honoring the footpath of jazz originators like Buddy Bolden while pushing the boundaries of swing music in contemporary contexts[1][5]. Their work is recognized for its expressive arrangements, thoughtful lyrical themes, and commitment to exploring the social and historical dimensions of American music, making them a distinctive voice in the New Orleans jazz scene.

Fun Facts

• Sabertooth Swing’s album 'Delta Bound' features spoken word passages, including readings of works by poets and historical figures, making it a unique blend of music and literature[5][10].
• The band’s EP 'Songs of Future Past' was inspired by a late-night blues dance event in a New Orleans juke joint and shaped during the COVID-19 pandemic[1].
• Sabertooth Swing’s music is known for bridging genres, incorporating elements of swing, blues, zydeco, Cajun, and Caribbean styles in their arrangements[5].
• Their performances are popular both with swing dancers and jazz listeners, reflecting their dual commitment to danceable energy and serious musicianship[1][2].

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Buddy Bolden - Early jazz originator whose legacy and musical ethos inspire Sabertooth Swing’s approach to New Orleans jazz. (General influence, referenced in band’s philosophy and musical roots.) [Historical influence (early 20th century)]

Key Collaborators

• Romain Beauxis - Founder, guitarist, and producer; leads musical direction and album conception. (Delta Bound, Songs of Future Past) [2010s–present]
• Chris Butcher - Trombonist and co-conceiver of Delta Bound project. (Delta Bound) [2010s–present]
• Holly Devon - Local writer who contributed poetic liner notes and historical insights for Delta Bound. (Delta Bound) [2020]
• Sister Helen Prejean - Featured guest providing spoken word essays on Delta Bound. (Delta Bound) [2020]
• Bruce 'Sunpie' Barnes - Guest musician and vocalist on Delta Bound. (Delta Bound) [2020]
• Jeffery Broussard - Guest musician on Delta Bound. (Delta Bound) [2020]
• Cedric Watson - Guest musician on Delta Bound. (Delta Bound) [2020]
• Paul Chéenne - Guest musician on Delta Bound. (Delta Bound) [2020]
• The Daiquiri Queens - Guest vocalists on Delta Bound. (Delta Bound) [2020]
• Zachary Richard - Guest musician on Delta Bound. (Delta Bound) [2020]
• Kid Chocolate - Guest musician on Delta Bound. (Delta Bound) [2020]
• Daiquiri René Jones - Guest musician on Delta Bound. (Delta Bound) [2020]
• Big Queen Mary Kay of the Original Wild Tchoupitoulas - Guest vocalist and cultural contributor on Delta Bound. (Delta Bound) [2020]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. La Chanson de Mardi Gras (Kids World Playground by Putumayo)
2. Chocolate Jesus (Songs of Future Past)
3. Je m'suis fait tout petit / Back to Black (Extinct Possibilities)
4. Blues Skies (Songs of Future Past)
5. La chanson de mardi gras (Delta Bound)
6. Alcohol (Extinct Possibilities)
7. Nuages (Delta Bound)
8. I'm On The Wonder (Delta Bound)
9. Frankie & Johnny (Songs of Future Past)
10. Atlanta Blues (Songs of Future Past)

External Links

• Spotify
• MusicBrainz