Too Big World

On Too Big World, their latest self-released album, the Bumper Jacksons run the gamut of rootsy American repertoire with easy assurance and heartfelt passion. From high lonesome ballads and country waltzes to jazzy rags, gospel jubilees and bluegrass rambles, the Washington-based sextet covers a dizzying array of genres without losing touch with their inner New Orleans swing band foundation. The 16 tracks include stylishly arranged classics such as Sister Rosetta Tharpe's ‘Trouble in Mind’, Duke Ellington's ‘Delta Bound’, and Billie Holiday's ‘Them There Eyes’, as well as originals such as ‘Coffee Mama’ and ‘Hell is Hot’ by founders Jess Eliot Myhre (vocals, clarinet, washboard) and Chris Ousley (guitar, vocals). Aided by Alex Lacquement (upright bass), Dave Hadley (pedal steel guitar), Brian Priebe (trombone) and Dan Cohan (suitcase percussion), the Bumper Jacksons bring a sly, sophisticated slant to the multi-faceted neo-trad Americana scene.