Gunnelpumpers

Gunnelpumpers is a group of inspired musicians dedicated to the art of progressive, free improvisation. Based in Chicago, the group was founded in 2002 by bassist Douglas Johnson and percussionist Randy Farr as an excuse to work on some grooves and quaff a beer or two. Shortly thereafter, bassist Michael Hovnanian and percussionist Doug Brush joined the group.

A year after the formation of the group, Johnson suggested the group's name, having become familiar with gunnelpumping from several camping trips to the Boundary Waters in Minnesota. Gunnelpumping refers to the act of standing on the rear gunnels of a canoe and propelling the craft forward by pumping one's legs, something quite appropriate for a completely improvisational group with multiple basses and drums, trying to keep the music moving forward without falling off.

Although subject to change at any moment, the current core lineup is:

John Meyer, electric guitar Douglas Johnson, Clevinger bass Michael Hovnanian, double bass Tom Mendel, electric bass Randy Farr, percussion Bob Garrett, drum kit

Over the years, over 40 musicians have performed with the group, which now has three albums under its belt, and a fourth nearly completed.

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