Mr. Hiram Sampy of "Sampy and the Bad Habits" played a Club of some type. I believe that it was his instrument of choice, but I have also seen him with a standard triple row. He was active in the 60's and 70's as I recall. I have a record with a few cuts of him and his band - it's good stuff.
Yes.. Travis' was from me and am pretty sure yours too Matt.
Old Ouvertures and Normas are superb accordions in terms of sound and construction.. Oveys are heavy but have an amazing Zydeco sound.
The finest clubs are the Hohner Morinos ( either the S or the N ).. from the 50's. Diatonics never got better ( so the builders here say ).
The Club supposedly allows for more chromatic possibilities on the pull ?.. I have heard them as being more dynamic in terms of notes ( not chords ) than triple row.. but am not versed enough to personally lay claims.
I had a 30's Club III which had been stored 60 years. Sorry I sold that one. Loud, Bright, solid, fast keyboard.. mother of pearl buttons..
I have seen Raul Barboza and Renato Borghetti play CHamamè music on a Club.. ( Argentinian Gaucho music in 6/8 time like Huapango ).. and some Merengue players use them... also French and German Folk bands.. But have never spoken to anyone who has really exploited it fully ..using the inside accidentals.
I am convinced it is a very economical alternative to a new triple row..as clubs can be found everywhere inexpensive and high quality.
I have heard of some of the old clubs being used for zydeco and to a much lesser extent Cajun but had heard mentioned of them having changed a few reeds around to get the necessary notes. Maybe this would work for those who might not want to spring for an expensive 3 row.
The April 2011 Dewey Balfa Cajun & Creole Heritage Week
