Hazmat Modine (NY)
One of New York’s most original bands, Hazmat Modine delivers a rustic and delirious blend of blues, reggae, klezmer, country and Gypsy-tinged music. Featuring the duelling harmonicas of front-man Wade Schuman and his sparring partner Bill Barrett, the funky tuba powerhouse Joseph Daley, guitarists Michael Gomez and Pete Smith, trumpeter Pam Fleming and drummer Rich Huntley, the band lays down a smouldering groove behind Schuman’s raspy, bluesy vocals. While they play mostly originals, their cover versions are choice and eclectic, including songs by Slim Gaillard, Jimmy Rogers, Jaybird Coleman, and even Irving Berlin. With “Hazmat” meaning “hazardous material” and “Modine” referring to a commercial heater, the name seems appropriate for a band that “blows a lot of hot air,” according to Schuman. All we can say is get ready for Hazmat’s sly musical wit, expert musicianship and entirely unique sound.