Dandelion Stompers

Voted “Best Local Band” by Little Village Magazine in 2022, Iowa’s Dandelion Stompers keep the dance floor hopping with their signature blend of good-time jazz for all. For more than a decade, they’ve been a cornerstone of Eastern Iowa’s vibrant social dance scene, filling halls, clubs, and festivals with their joyful sound.

Their recent double release, Whirlwind Sessions: Vol. I & II, showcases the infectious energy and rich musicality that define the band. On stage, the eight-piece ensemble shines with an all-star lineup: bandleader Chris Clark on baritone saxophone, Tim Crumley on percussion, Katie Greenstein on trumpet, Brandi Janssen on bass, Marc Janssen on guitar, Suzanne Smith on clarinet, and Devin van Holsteijn on alto saxophone.

At the heart of it all is vocalist Katie Roche, praised for a delivery that’s both precise and deeply expressive: “Her voice is such an integral instrument…She delivers every lyric, every melodic twist. You can follow her vocal line like a clever sax solo while really hearing the intent in the words. In a world full of impressive female leads, she is uniquely in control. Not everyone singing for a jazz band sings jazz - she does.” - Joe Bebco, Syncopated Times