Born in Kingston, Jamaica, Russell Hall migrated to the United States in 2007. Russell deeply understands the jazz tradition, having studied with many of the double bass world’s most renowned artists including Ron Carter and Ben Wolfe. He is also an artist looking forward with his own distinct approach to the double bass.
As a first-call bassist in New York City, Russell has performed with some of the biggest names in music including Joey Alexander, Wayne Shorter, Wynton Marsalis, Branford Marsalis, Jon Batiste, Roy Hargrove, Kathleen Battle, Christian McBride, Emmet Cohen, Russell Malone, George Coleman and many more. Well known for his work with the Emmet Cohen Trio alongside drummer Kyle Poole, Russell also leads his own bands, including Bessie and the Rainbowkids to much critical acclaim.
Jacob Wutzke is a drummer, bandleader and composer based in New York City. Noted for his precise technique, creativity, and joyful, uplifting sense of swing, he performs regularly both as a leader and as a sideman. A staple of the jazz scene, he has performed and recorded with Caity Gyorgy, Ira Coleman, Jocelyn Gould, Bryn Roberts and more. He also regularly tours with his own groups performing original material at prestigious clubs, halls, and jazz festivals around the globe. Jacob has released 3 albums as a leader, and his latest release “You Better Bet” released on Cellar Music Group in January 2025.
Featuring a quartet of top-tier Montréal musicians, it will be a hard-swinging evening of jazz standards and original music.
Musicians:
Russell Hall — (upright bass)
Jacob Wutzke — (drums)
Rafael Salazar — (trumpet)
Andrés Vial — (piano)
Youtube video: Christian McBride & Russell Hall | Birks’ Works
