Finally Portland is experiencing some real summer weather!  Yea, it’s really funny how people go from too-cold to too-hot.  But man, I like the nice dry heat out here, and it cools at night - perfect.

I’ve got a few fun jazz projects going, as well as the Tuesday jam session at the Camellia Lounge.  Next week I’m honored to be playing with the Aaron Summerfield Quartet.  We’ll be playing some original ultra modern jazz, where the stylistic range is from space jam to bop, to folky blues, crunchy rock, even some fugue - usually all in one tune!  It’s a blast to play with such solid and creative musicians and composers.  Check the Gigs section for details.

Next up is the Mantis project with a funk and groove jazz feel infused with African rhythms and echos of the great American songbook.  Headed by Drummer Michael Galen who does much of the composing, the performances so far have been phenomenal and our following is growing.  Search for “The Mantis Project” on Facebook for more info, and check the Gigs section for our next show.

For the real jazz fiends out there head out to the Thursday night jam at Proper Eats in St. Johns.  I’m only on the gig every few weeks, but it’s a really unique concept - an all original and public domain songbook jam (so the hosting restaurant/vegan deli doesn’t have to pay licensing fees).  It’s fun to read some new material, and try some modern interpretations of songs from way back in the day.