JazzBo
JazzBo – living jamaica jazz ska from berlin, with reggae and ska classics, own compositions and cool jazz interpretations. JazzBo is a traditional combo quintet, relying solely on acoustic instruments.
JazzBo was founded in 1997 by Detwin Johannsen and Waki Johannsen, together with Daniel Dueckers.
Detwin (alt & tenor sax) and Waki (trombone), the Johannsen brothers, founded already the forerunner of JazzBo, YEBO. This was in 1979, therefore YEBO was one of the first traditional ska bands outside Jamaica. Besides, and even since the early sixties, the Johannsen bros. played extensively New Orleans jazz. Against this background the Johannsen bros. were key for developing the unique sound of JazzBo: rough and pure.
Daniel Dueckers (piano) played in several other bands with local cult status, like ENGINE 54, TIME TOUGH, LIONS CLUB, and RAGGATACKE. Together with Waki he is still a member of YEBO and THE SPARTAN ALLSTARS - in the latter accompanied by Robert:
Robert Schwill (drums) joined the band shortly afterwards. Robert came from TIME TOUGH and THE SKAMPIES and had toured with MOTHER’S PRIDE. Robert’s R&B-offbeat and drive is influenced by Lloyd Knibbs.
Martin Bartels (double bass) was, and still is, a member of WOOD IN DI FIRE, one of the most thrilling rock steady bands in Germany with many tours though Europe. Martin’s walking bass represents the tradition of American R&B and Jamaican beat.
The last reshuffle of JazzBo came when Detwin got such a serious desease that he had to give up playing. In 2014 Detwin died – his band will miss Detwin forever, this great musician and true friend!
Fabian Astor took over the sax - hear his brilliant sound and awesome compositions on the ten inch record “Hoy: JazzBo”.
Besides concerts in their home country Germany, JazzBo has toured many times Spain and gave shows in Brasil. The JazzBo members had shows together with THE SKATALITES, RICO, DERRICK MORGAN, TOOTS AND THE MAYTALS, PRINCE BUSTER, LAUREL AITKEN, DESMOND DEKKER …
