Vermont band "Small Change" plays jazz inspired versions of music by legendary American songwriter, Tom Waits. The interpretation is unshackled and fresh, with an exploration and improvisation drawn from their jazz background. Never sticking to any particular idea, they keep things unexpected for themselves and their audience.
Founded in 2009, in Burlington, VT, by Bob Gagnon, a Native Vermonter and long time Freelance Jazz Guitar player. Andy Smith plays bass with the likes of Panton Flats, Pryden, and the Bessette Quartet. The group also includes Tom Teare on drums and Steve Sawyer on Tenor Sax and Clarinet. They may be a cover band, but they are way more creative than that would imply.
“Tom Waits music can cover the gamut. Burlesque, circus music, jazz, rock, blues, folk; it’s all there. Tom himself probably never plays it the same way twice. The song sometimes serves as somewhere to begin and a place to return to. The journey between is up to us! Music transcends time, space, geography, religion, cultures, etc. It is not prejudice. I love that it brings people together and I embrace that moment. Live music is about that very moment that we are all in together. That is very special because it will never be again.” - Andy