Act The Scat
It may not be the 1930's, but when Denver and the Mile High Orchestra take the stage, the audience is taken back to a time when big band was in full swing! But this is not just a bunch of kids playing garage rock with horns masquerading as a retro band. This is the real deal—well educated and highly skilled musicians filling the bandstand and delivering a massive sound unlike anything previously recorded in the contemporary Christian music industry.As a backing musician on reggae artist, Christafari's studio recordings and their "Valley of Decision" tour, Denver realized his calling to pioneer another vintage genre. Denver and his Mile High Orchestra were formed at Belmont University in Nashville, TN (former stomping grounds of the likes of Trisha Yearwood and Steven Curtis Chapman). Although they began during the resurgence of swing, their multi-genre musical presentation exceeds far beyond a mere passing fad. It is contemporary big band music played by a……..BIG band. With a little R&B;, a dash of Rockabilly, a touch of Dixieland, and even some Latin influence, this high energy dance band wails syncopated horn lines with complex harmonies and features the essential jazz-rooted element of true improvisation.This compelling, twelve-member, jazz orchestra is led by a tremendous horn section that can scream notes a mile high. With trumpet in hand, reminiscent of the great Louis Armstrong, Denver sings unadorned vocals, influenced by vintage crooners such as Harry Connick Jr., Brian Setzer, and Frank Sinatra. His music defies standard age demographics reaching both the old and young alike. For some, Denver's sound is a step into the past while for others, it is an introduction to a new musical dimension.Over the past two years, Denver has created quite a buzz in the industry, playing festivals, showcases and conferences. Performances have included the "Best of the Best Showcase" at the legendary Ryman Auditorium, Billy Graham pre-crusade rallies in Nashville, and performances with Curb recording artist Jonathan Pierce. The band has earned standing ovations and rave reviews for their powerful stage show and profound lyrics. With his freshmen release, "Act the Scat," Plymouth, Indiana native, Denver and his Mile High Orchestra are taking their big band sound a mile high.