Band members individually are drawn to many types of music, with stronger interests in happy, upbeat types of music. There is an internal energy among the Hamjos which results in that happy blending of all the instruments. Vocalists Ron and Pat draw from long time association with ballads from both gospel and Appalachian harmony, whereas Pat enjoyed a full involvement in blues and jazz as well as popular songs throughout the years.
Dale and Ron have more influences from the Bluegrass and country. Dick and Sally are steeped in the Celtic tradition, enjoying reels and jigs and their favorite Irish blind harpist & composer, Turlough O'Carolan. Interpreting their tunes through this eclectic maze of influences allows the Hamjos to create a repetoire of amazing variety in their sets, often creating a program focused on the type of audience.
From the amazing sound from a washtub bass, to the delicate tones of the mandolin, with the beautiful range of the hammered dulcimer's strokes, combined with the twin claw-hammer banjo
pickin, and the soulful pickin on the guitar or energized strum and walkdowns, the Hamjos blend their energy to that last moment when they stop together with such precision, it sounds easy.
Sounds Like
Rhythmic, upbeat, toe-tappin fun. Sharing leads and instrumental textures, the listener is drawn into the happy feeling of the tune and comes out smiling. Vocals carry natural, genuine warmth wrapped around the instrumental drive or gentle support. When the Hamjos play, the room fills up, and the audience stays until the end, and when they leave. they are smiling. Their sound brings back memories of times passed, walking through musical history from old time to blues to Jazz to Appalachian and Celtic with just a hint of that drive so loved in the bluegrass crowd, with more variety.
*************** "With Mustang Sally on the Hammered Dulcimer and the five Hamjos performing on guitars, claw-hammer banjos, mandolin, fiddle, old-fashioned rhythm "bones" plus a wash-tub bass, this old-time band stirs up that toe-tappin, back porch energy with music reflecting the many influences of the past. Beautiful harmonies from the two vocalists complement the instrumentals, which range from Appalachian fiddle tunes to Celtic reels and traditional waltzes.
The Hamjos have performed in Festivals throughout Florida and have been the featured band for Special events as well as private functions. Their venuees range from Coffee Houses to the florida Folk festival and a Pre-show Opening for the Imperial Symphony Orchestra Folk Heritage Concert to performing as the featured band for the Bok Tower Summer Music Series. You'll find their enthrusiasm hard to resist in creating just a good, happy feeling with their eclectic performance versatility."
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