Tenor saxophonist Benny Sharoni is a bandleader, composer and arranger and is a mainstay on the U.S. and International jazz scenes where he has played with many of today’s jazz greats, including David Hazeltine, Jim Rotondi and George Garzone. Sharoni fuses together classic bop influences of Sonny Rollins, Dexter Gordon and Steve Grossman, and flavors his music with Latin rhythms and an energetic drive.

Youtube video: “Take The D Train”

Façade is an instrumental jazz sextet co-directed by trombonist Margaret Donovan and drummer Matys Colpron putting forward young upcoming Montreal talent. The sextet presents a new variety of compositions showcasing its creativity and diverse influences. This allows Façade to create its artistic affirmation, one of diversity and wishing to include and inspire a new generation in Montreal.

Youtube video: Portrait of Glenys

Based in Tokyo, Japan but born and raised in Montreal, QC, Denis Chang is a guitarist of Taiwanese descent specializing in Gypsy Jazz. He is active internationally and has worked with artists such as Bireli Lagrene, Stochelo Rosenberg, Angelo Debarre, Tchavolo Schmitt, Dorado Schmitt, Tico Rosenberg, and many others.

Musicians:
Denis Chang – Guitar
Special Guest from Taiwan – Ming-Hsuan Mao
Brenn Dalle – Violin
Zak Martel – Guitar
Olivier Georget – Bass

Youtube video: “Awen Sik Awen Sik”

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)
Rémi-Jean LeBlanc (bass)
Wali Muhammad (drums)

Youtube video: “Taurey Butler Trio – The Preacher”