The Jesters formed in Chicago, IL in the fall of 1995, guided by the simple mantra of "life's too short." Although their initial influences were strongly rooted in the ska scene, they soon began to incorporate bits of funk, jazz, hip-hop, rock, swing, and punk into their energetic live shows. Appearances on several different compilations soon followed, including the well-received "Everything-Off Beat" Benefit CD from Jump Up! Records. During that same year, the Jesters also released their first full-length CD, "Which is Nice…" and continued playing venues such as the House of Blues, the Cubby Bear, and the Metro.
Member changes and additions over the next couple of years brought new influences and personalities to the band, as well as a forever-growing costume wardrobe. This has allowed them to hone both their increasingly diverse sound and their dynamic live show. Now consisting of a steady rhythm section, screaming horns, and vocals by the always unpredictable Velour Lapel, the Jesters continue to earn fans through their fun, eclectic style of music. Their live performances are an explosive, high-energy, in-your-face experience - offering up a healthy portion of hip-shaking grooves and comedic shtick.
The Jesters have a varied repertoire of original songs and covers that are guaranteed to move the most stubborn and jaded crowd onto the dance floor. They released their second full-length CD, Everybody Loves a Chimp, in September of 2002. They continue to perform at a variety of venues around Chicago and the Midwest including the Double Door, the Elbo Room, Otto's (DeKalb), Lakeview Links, as well as numerous colleges.
Their music has been played on Q101, 94.7 The Zone, and WCBR 92.7 in Chicago, as well as on college radio stations throughout the United States and the world. With the release of "Everybody Loves a Chimp," the Jesters plan to bring their ever-present mantra of "life's too short" to a radio or dance floor near you.
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