The Philly brass band known as Snacktime formed during the height of the coronavirus pandemic, delivering a much-needed silver lining. They’ve impacted the souls and imagination of audiences at street festivals, on rooftops, at the PHS Philadelphia Flower Show, at the 76ers halftime show, and just about any other location that will have them.
Their debut recording, Sounds From The Streets:Live, bottles some of that spirit, which has captured the hearts of thousands in the Philadelphia area and beyond. The band generates an onslaught of funky grooves with a large dosage of brass magic, resulting in a live party that dares you not to move your body.
Needless to say, when WRTI booked Snacktime for an NPR Live Session, we couldn’t wait to see and hear what they had planned. And what the band brought to us was a sublime musical party, which we’re proud to share now with you.
So as we continue to recognize and celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month, we’re featuring Snacktime’s original composition “Sweet Treat” as our Video of the Week. The tune showcases the festive nature of their presentation, which has a tendency to grab you by the collar and pull you into the party. It’s with great pleasure that we share this foot-stomping, head-bobbing (dare I say, booty-shaking) experience courtesy of a brass band that has provided great music and bright moments during a challenging time.
Snacktime is: Yesseh Furaha-Ali, alto saxophone; Sam Gellerstein, sousaphone; Ben Stockerl, tenor saxophone; Eric Sherman, trumpet; Michael Spearman, trombone; Austin Marlow, drums; and Larry Monroe, Jr., guitar.
Producer: J. Michael Harrison
Production Manager: Tyler McClure
Audio: Paul Marchesani
Video: Jason Fifield
Cameras: Jason Fifield, Lauren Michelle Wall, Tyler McClure
