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THUNDER SOUL |
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When I was a kid, I belonged to a school band - the Bass-Wentworth band - led by Paul Alexander. I played the trombone at first and then finally, the altos sax.
That's the way is was back then, you had to learn an instrument. The trombone wasn't my choice, it was what my grandfather played so... that was that. (It should be noted that I could have followed in
the footsteps of my dad and played the accordion - but it was decided that my lead to countless ass-kicking from the rest of the neighborhood!)
Mr Alexander often cited another band, in Houston, as the pinnacle of bandliness. In fact, while tossing sarcastic comments, he often queried why weren't more like that band in Houston.
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That band in Houston was the Kashmere High School Stage Band under the direction of Conrad "Prof" Johnson. They would become legendary with their stylish renditions and funk music.
"Thunder Soul" a documentary presented by Jamie Foxx, recalls the band and follows them as the reunite 35 years later to present the now retire Johnson with a concert.
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They are much older and they recall their participation in the band back in the day. Most adored Johnson and spoke of him glowingly as the man who kept them interested in music.
Some even told of how, because of his input, they continued in the music industry in some capacity.
Kashmere High School was located in one of Houston's poorest neighborhoods and got little support from the school board for thing outside of the classroom. But when word - and sound - got out about the band, things changed.
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This is a warm documentary about how one man can actually change a neighborhood and the perception of that neighborhood. Beautifully told with terrific sound bites that will have your feet tapping. Not unlike the other documentary about the Manassas High School football team in Memphis, "Thunder Soul" points out the beauty that can be found anywhere.
"Thunder Soul" rocks! It's a terrific trip down memory lane not only for those who participated in that band, but for anyone else from that time who belonged to a school band.
-- GEOFF BURTON |
GEOFF BURTON |
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COPYRIGHT 2011 BY AFROTREK TRAVEL NEWS LLC |
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