Small Time Napoleon is the combination of new ideas and old sounds. Their interest in the jazz standards of the swing-era shine through in their voices, writing, and playing, while their ear for new sounds and ideas constantly drives them forward. The product of this pairing is what Kyle Ware of Insider Louisville has called “a mad science blend of western swing, hot jazz and folk,” which is “already starting to gel into something wholly singular.”

STN was born in the spring of 2013 after Dan Hardin and Jeff Thomas sought to expand their sound beyond the acoustic duo they had become comfortable with. Dave Neill (bass) and Zack Kennedy (drums) soon joined the group to complete the sound. Johnny Gutterman of Louisville.com believes, “This is the sound of a band so connected in vision and so united upon it’s path, that they come off sounding more like they’ve been playing together for decades.” Laura Shine, Assistant Program Director/On-Air Host at Louisville’s own WFPK, says of the band, “Small Time Napoleon is poised for big time things. They are truly one of the most unique and exciting bands I’ve seen come out of Louisville in a very long time. Their music and instrumentation and vocals are exquisite!”

The band has been featured on The World Cafe as apart of David Dye’s “Sense of Place” series and was listed as one of Louisville’s 5 Best Local Acts, had the opportunity to play along side The Wood Brothers twice, played large festival style shows, including WFPK’s Waterfront Wednesday, and currently hold the record for most pre-sale tickets for a local show at The Clifton Center.

Members

Dan Hardin: Vocals, Guitar

Jeff Thomas: Vocals, Guitar

Dave Neill: Bass, Vocals

Zack Kennedy: Drums, Percussion