ALL presents John Raymon's Real Feels on Wednesday, February 20, 2019 at 8pm. John Raymond is making a name for himself as one of the most promising, genre-bending musicians in jazz today. With a singular voice as a trumpeter, flugelhornist and composer, Raymond is “steering jazz in the right direction” (Downbeat Magazine) by pushing its boundaries, seamlessly incorporating indie-rock, folk and electronic influences into his music. “This is jazz, yes, but jazz with an open mind." (Something Else).
Raymond’s primary band Real Feels is a bass-less trio which includes rising stars Gilad Hekselman (guitar), Colin Stranahan (drums) and Raymond on flugelhorn. For the Minnesota native, the idea of developing a band was nothing new. In fact, Raymond’s most formative years were spent learning from and being a part of numerous local jazz and indie-rock bands, each dedicated to serving the song rather than improvising for improvising sake. Bringing these Midwestern sensibilities to the formation of Real Feels, the band developed a unique identity from the moment they first played together.
The group’s debut album “Real Feels” was released in 2016 and received high praise from the New York Times, Downbeat and JazzTimes among others. It was also lauded by Stereogum as one the best jazz albums of the year. Embarking on a 40+ city tour of the United States (which Raymond booked himself), the group proceeded to release “Real Feels Live Vol. 1” later that year, a live recording documenting the band’s growth on the road. Their 2018 release “Joy Ride”, the band’s first on Sunnyside Records, led to another extensive tour and has yielded their newest album and most poignant statement yet - “Real Feels Live Vol. 2” (out January 18). Warm, lyrical melodies are complemented by an infusion of electronics and effects, giving the group a sound that is entirely accessible and relevant. Add to this the deep chemistry between the musicians, and it’s no surprise that Real Feels is one of the hottest new groups in jazz today.
Tickets are $20 in advance at https://realfeels.bpt.me and $25 at the door. Student tickets are $5 off with valid school ID. Advance tickets are available online until 1 hour before the show. Doors open at 7:30pm.
The ALL Jazz Series is sponsored in part by Alchemy, Dobhan, and Tex Tubbs Restaurants, WORT 89.9FM, Heid Music, and HotelRED. Student ticket discount made possible by Grant Samuelsen Real Estate.
