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”

Born in Santiago de Cuba, young Andy Rubal Bello has had music running through his veins ever since he was a little boy.

Musicians
Andy Rubal: piano and vocals
Yojan Vargas: bass
Lazaro Martinez: percussions

Youtube video: “Carola” live at Festival International Nuits d’Afrique 2023″

Mike Rud is a Juno award-winning jazz guitarist and songwriter. He is also a music instructor at Selkirk College in Nelson, BC. As an instrumentalist, Mike has played alongside some of the greatest jazz musicians of the era like Peter Bernstein, Kenny Wheeler, Herb Ellis and Joey DeFrancesco.

As a songwriter and arranger, Mike won the 2014 Juno Award for his album Notes on Montreal, a critically acclaimed musical portrait of the city.

Christine Jensen (alto sax)
David Restivo (piano)
Rich Irwin (drums)
Paul Johnston (bass)
Mike Rud (guitar and vocals)

Youtube video: I’m old fashioned

An active figure in Montreal’s vibrant music scene, Mike performs regularly both as a bandleader and a sideman. He has also appeared at prominent jazz venues across Canada. His performance and recording credits include collaborations with acclaimed artists such as Louis Hayes, Lenny White, Ben Solomon, Davis Whitfield, Miki Yamanaka, Emilio Modeste, Adam Arruda, Terry Clarke, André White, Kevin Dean, Ira Coleman, Caity Gyorgy, Laura Anglade, among many others.

Mike has assembled a dynamic new ensemble featuring some of the most exciting and accomplished musicians on Montreal’s vibrant music scene today. The group will perform selections from his two releases on Bent River Records, alongside fresh original compositions and thoughtfully curated hidden gems. With a strong emphasis on beauty, sonic depth, and expressive artistry, this project promises a captivating and immersive musical experience.

Musicians:
Mike Bruzzese – Guitar
August McKinney – Piano and keyboards
Devon Gillingham – Bass
Jacob Wutzke – Drums

Youtube video: “After the rain”