Kickstarter

Zach is one of the most sought-after musicians in NYC who just happens to be one of the best jazz violinists on the planet. He is a current member of Stanley Clarke's touring band and he has performed and recorded with the following artists: Patricia Barber, Chris Potter, Donny McCaslin, and Bob Dorough.

"Chris Greene's seventh disc, "A Group Effort", showcases the solid sound and relaxed feel of one of Chicago's top saxophone players over an enjoyable program of original and standard repertoire that intersects hard bop, contemporary jazz, and R&B. Chris's original compositions show him to be not only an accomplished saxophonist but also a sensitive composer who knows how to write both for his band's strengths and his audience's interest - a rare feat. The Chris Greene Quartet should be getting a lot of work after this release. Congratulations, Chris!"

Kendall is a Chicago-based trombonist, composer and arranger whose experience belies his relatively young age. Currently a doctoral student at the University of Miami, he has performed with McCoy Tyner, Ahmad Jamal, and Dave Brubeck. He also writes and arranges for many large and small ensembles - including his own creative group, the Kendall Moore Octet.

"You guys sound super tight! Really cohesive and it sounds like you are all on the same page trying to convey the same message. Really great to hear a band make music together. I really like the vibe on Future Emperor of Evanston, Three and Six, and Stat. All in all, you should be super happy with your group and the music you have! Great job, man. Keep doing what you do. Inspiring!"

Marquis is a relative youngster on the scene in Chicago, but he's already built an impressive resume of performing and recording credits including stints with Ernest Dawkins, Bobby Broom and Steve Turre. He's currently pursuing his MA in Jazz Pedagogy at Depaul University. And last year, he released his debut recording as a leader, "New Gospel."

"This is a soulful record, combining aspects of traditional jazz with aspects of modern jazz, and even hip-hop. The ease in which these musicians interact with each other reminds me of the playfulness of the Horace Silver Quintet. It is hard to define what genre of music this incredible recording belongs to. In my opinion it's simply Good Music that touches the soul and makes listeners feel good!"

Chad is one of my favorite saxophonists and a new friend. He's an assistant professor of saxophone and jazz studies at the University of North Carolina in Greensboro. He is also a forward thinking saxophonist who has been heralded by Branford Marsalis and Wessel Anderson. As a composer and arranger, he has seen his work performed by the Wynton Marsalis Quintet featuring Willie Nelson and Norah Jones, Kurt Elling, Byron Stripling, the U.S. Army Jazz Ambassadors, the Dallas Jazz Orchestra, and many collegiate jazz ensembles.

"Chris, this is your band's finest work to date. Another big step forward for you and the guys. I'm really loving in particular "Three and Six" and "Future Emperor". May you continue to do things that I cannot and send me back to the practice room."