“Hobo Jazz” has hitched a train to your town!

It’s hard not stompin’ a foot or bangin’ on somethin’ when listening to this 
homegrown countrybilly band. Heck! It’s hard to stay in your seat for that 
matter! Some crowds find themselves up outta their seats doin’ the jitterbug 
to the steady popin’ beat of the band!  You see, “Hobo Jazz”  tends to win 
audiences over with their quirky, friendly style and their on-stage 
chemistry. Even if you’re in the big city, they make you feel like you’re 
right at home at a rockabilly hoe-down in an old barn. The casual vibe and 
the on-stage antics between band members relax the atmosphere and make the 
show an intimate, as well as humorous, performance.

Last night at the Derby in Hollywood CA. was no different. “Hobo Jazz” 
commands your attention from the moment they hit the stage. With their 
unique style and way of dress, they paint a picture of yesterday’s hobo’s 
and hillbillies mixed with today’s flash and flair. The audience knew they 
were in for something different. But, don’t let their young good-looks fool 
you! These down-home boys can sure play a song or two!

Providing the steady back beat on drums is Joe Perez, a young but seasoned 
professional who’s played at the Grand ‘Ole Opry. He chugs away on his 
swell-lookin’ vintage kit with the timing and precision of a swiss-made 
clock. Holdin’ down the bottom is Fernando Mota, a standup bass player with 
a great percussive feel and in-the-pocket timing. They lay the foundation 
for the singing and guitar playing duo of  Marquis Howell and Matt 
Coleman.  As MC and ringleader of the band, Marquis displays his charismatic 
talents in front of a microphone, winning the crowd over with his humor and 
charm. He’s no stranger to the guitar either.  He floats in and out of solos 
while dancing around the stage in what you might consider a musical number 
from an Elvis Presely movie. Also on vocals and guitar is Matt Coleman. With 
a smooth voice and and distinctive finger-picking style, Matt provides the 
perfect amount of contrast to balance out the band’s sound. His folk-based 
singing style and harmonies blend well with the bands rockabilly overtones 
creating a distinctive sound.

The band blazes though an assortment of timeless covers from back in the 
day, as well as clever originals that will have your ear askin’ for more. 
Whether the songs are old or new, “Hobo Jazz” makes them their own.  The 
crowd at the Derby was decked-out in their finest threads and were looking 
for serious entertainment. Well, they got it. As usual, “Hobo Jazz” won ‘em 
over and had them smilin’, clapin’, dancin’, and screamin’. When they 
reached the end of their hour-long set, the crowd sighed with disappointment 
and yelled for more. New fans of the band rushed the stage for free CD’s 
which ran out like hot cakes with butter.

If you have any interest in 50’s era music, or if you like to see a good 
show with great musicians, treat yourself to a night with “Hobo Jazz”. It’s 
well worth your time. For more information regarding the band, as well as 
future show dates, check their website at www.hobojazz.com.

review written by Brian Ill