Published in Berkshires Week on Jan. 23, 2013
Original article: http://www.berkshireeagle.com/berkshiresweek/ci_24970330/south-street-cafe-serves-coffee-side-jazz

BENNINGTON — South Street Cafe sounds different on Sundays.

Above the usual whirring and grinding of coffee beans, the bright, cozy room fills up with the spacious, loose jazz melodies of its regular Sunday trio: Gary Miller on the vibraphone, Darryl Kniffen on keyboard and Bennington’s own Dave Banulis on electric bass.

“Welcome to our laboratory,” says Miller from behind his instrument, as the combo gets ready to begin playing.

This feeling of freedom and experimentation guides the players during their standing gig, which starts most Sunday mornings at 11 and lasts until about 1 p.m.

“It’s really low-key, so we can try new, innovative ideas and be as creative as we want.” Kniffen explained. “We can do whatever we want.”

One of these interesting innovations is the absence of drums in the group, especially since Miller …