Very happy to have been a part of this project, featuring the songwriting/arranging/vocal & instrumental work of Mathias Hatleskog Tjønn. Also featuring many great New York-area musicians, the album is available now in Norway and will be available in the U.S. on April 20th. Check out the band’s website for sound clips, gig dates, and more info on the band.

Drawing has been a passion of mine since a very young age. As a member of Boston’s Quartet of Happiness, I contributed cover artwork to their two studio albums, ‘Quartet of Happiness’ and ‘The Monster Returns!’ In November, thanks to Sarah Bob and her New Gallery Concert Series, I will have the privilege of showing another set of artwork inspired by the group and the stories they tell through their music. Featuring a performance by the Quartet of Happiness (the ‘Concert’ part of NGCS). I’m not playing on this one, but will be there to facilitate some multi-media happenings…

New Gallery Concert Series
November 3rd | 7 pm
Allen Hall
Community Music Center of Boston
34 Warren Ave.
Boston, MA

This past weekend I performed two concerts with Daniel Rosenthal’s quartet in support of his new album ‘Lines’. This group has been playing together since our student days at NEC; it was beautiful to see and make music again with these great friends. The album features mostly original music by Dan as well as a few selections by one of our all-time biggest inspirations, Thelonious Monk.

Daniel Rosenthal – trumpet
Rick Stone – alto sax
KE – bass
Austin McMahon – drums
Wes Corbett – banjo (For some reason Wes’ website wouldn’t link to this page, but check him out.  He’s a phenominal young musician.)

I’m proud to have been part of this recording project by my good friend and musical colleague Carmen Staaf. This trio, including Carmen Staaf (piano), Austin McMahon (drums), and myself has developed a close rapport over years of collaboration and friendship. The connection I have with these musicians is a rare gift, which I cherish and hope to enjoy for many years to come. All but two of these tracks were recorded live at Tula’s Jazz Club as part of Seattle’s 2010 Earshot Jazz Festival. The album is released on the Fractamodi music label.