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”

Following two successful performances at Upstairs Jazz Bar, Argentinian singer María Luz Seferiades and Egyptian-Canadian guitarist and oud player Ali Omar El-Farouk return for their third consecutive year at the iconic Montreal jazz venue, presenting their newly named quartet, Cuatro Orillas.

Joined this year by two outstanding Montreal musicians, bassist Olivier Babaz and percussionist Hanser Santos Gómez, the quartet explores the rich musical crossroads between Spain and Latin America, blending the passion of flamenco and Spanish song with the sensuality of Bolero and the rhythmic spirit of Latin music.

Their repertoire brings together beloved classics and contemporary songs, from Perfidia, Sabor a Mí, Lágrimas Negras and La Llorona to music by artists such as Buika, Niña Pastori, Yerai Cortés and Gypsy Kings. Through their own arrangements and interpretations, the quartet creates a sound that is intimate, expressive, and deeply rooted in the traditions of Spanish and Latin music while embracing contemporary influences.

At the heart of Cuatro Orillas is the long-standing musical collaboration between María Luz and Ali Omar El-Farouk, whose musical dialogue is expanded and enriched by the interplay of voice, guitar, bass, and percussion.

An evening of passion, rhythm, and songs that cross borders, from one shore to another.

Video: “Veinte Años”

Sophianne Girard is thrilled to present her new single, Mi, which will be released the Friday following her show at Upstairs, along with a few tracks from her upcoming second album, Si vivante, performed with a small quartet. The singer’s compositions will transport you with their rich, personal, and moving arrangements.

Her quartet, featuring Yannick Anctil on piano, Jean-Michel Leblanc on guitar/bass, and Jules Payette on drums, will captivate you with their groove and intimate touch.

Come celebrate the best new music from here!

Youtube video: “Bright & cold”

JabFung is the brainchild of Toronto-based bassist, Julian Anderson-Bowes, and LA based drummer Anthony Fung. Since 2014, the band has had a semi-annual residency at the Rex Hotel in downtown Toronto where they have brought together local and international artists to rehearse and perform their original music.

During these residencies they have featured a shifting cast of Canadian jazz icons like Kirk MacDonald, and Kelly Jefferson, as well as American counterparts like George Garzone and peers of their own generation, such as Simon Moullier, Isaac Wilson, Andrew Marzotto and Mingjia Chen.

*Special Guest – Virginia MacDonald – Clarinet
Anthony Fung – Drums
Julian Anderson- Bowes – Bass
Michael Ragonese – Piano
Luis Deniz – Alto Sax

Youtube video: JabFung – Live at the Rex