One of Canada’s most sought after musicians, Jim Doxas plays extensively both nationally and overseas. Distinguished for his improvisational approach to jazz, he makes the case that percussion can be as performative as a lyrical instrument.

Video: “Upstairs Jam Session hosted by Jim Doxas”

Taurey Butler is a phenomenal jazz pianist of the highest calibre.

Hailing from East Orange, New Jersey, he has played in numerous cities across the world from Hong Kong to New York and now makes his home in Montréal. Taurey’s debut self-titled recording on the Justin Time label was released in November 2011 to resounding critical acclaim. He emerges as a fully-formed master of hard-driving swing with a deep feeling for the blues and ballads.

It’s easy to get lost in the fire and funk, the sweetness and swing, of Taurey Butler. But you can also follow the light that his music emanates.

Musicians:
Taurey Butler (piano)
Fraser Hollins (bass)
Wali Muhammad (drums)

Youtube video: “Taurey Butler Trio – The Preacher”

The Blue Note label is one of the most iconic and influential jazz labels in history. Founded in 1939 by Alfred Lion and Max Gottlieb in New York City, the label began documenting the city’s vibrant jazz scene.

Over the years, Blue Note continued to evolve, signing new talent and pushing the boundaries of jazz music. The label’s commitment to innovation and experimentation helped shape the course of jazz history, paving the way for future generations of musicians.

Today Blue Note remains a vital force in the jazz world, representing many leading young artists of our times such as Melissa Aldana, Ambrose Akinmusire, Gerald Clayton, Aaron Parks or Immanuel Wilkins .

For this project, drummer and composer Kulusé Souriant, who just moved to Montréal, drew inspiration from the latest Blue Note releases, selecting a repertoire that reflected the vibrant, contemporary sound of the label.
He gathered a group of young, up-and-coming musicians from the city, eager to infuse their fresh perspectives and ideas into the music.

Musicians:
Simone Leblanc (alto sax)
Gabriel Genest (tenor sax)
Yannick Anctil (piano)
Guillaume Levebvre (upright bass)
Kulusé Souriant (drums)

Youtube video: “Grace and Mercy”

A musical journey to New Orleans from the 20s to the 40s is what Masson Stomp is all about: Traditional Jazz and Swing. Masson Stomp will make you rediscover many great world-renowned tunes interpreted by its musicians in their original, modern and unique way.

For their first album, the band’s artistic vision was to be close to the jazz tradition but also contributing to the repertoire by adding original compositions.

Musicians
Jean-Sébastien Leblanc: Clarinet et vocal
Jeffrey Moseley: Guitar
Mathieu Roberge: Double bass
Samuel Voyer: Piano
Frédéric Lapointe: Drums

Youtube video: “Masson Stomp”