We’re an instrumental quintet who enjoy grooving out to tunes in the Soul Jazz genre. You’ll also hear us exploring other musical territory, mixing in some funk, latin, R&B, timeless jazz standards… you name it. Nothing’s off limits, and we’ll even indulge in our own rendition of a favorite pop tune or two.
BAND MEMBER BIOS
Nile Ziemba, Saxophone
Nile’s all about that jazz, funk, and soul vibe. Whether he’s jamming with friends or playing solo in his Concord MA studio, he’s at his happiest when his sax is in hand and the music is flowing. A true music lover, he’d play all day if he could — and he’s always excited to share that joy with anyone who’s ready to listen.
Jean-Claude Paul, Guitar
Jean-Claude began playing guitar in his teens while growing up in Switzerland, mostly jamming to rock and blues. After moving to the U.S. in the early ’80s, he began exploring new sounds – jazz, soul, reggae, and R&B – which gradually became part of his musical vocabulary. These days, he blends those influences into a guitar style rooted in jazz and blues.
Matt Smith, Drums
Matt grew up in western New York, playing in concert and marching bands and studying rock and swing. In Boston, he played clubs with a punk band, and his love of polyrhythms and complex meters eventually drew him to jazz and funk. Matt annoys his neighbors and family from the basement of his home in Littleton, MA.
Alex Smith, Keys
Alex is originally from Kansas City, Missouri, where he performed in bands playing everything from soul to salsa to Afrobeat. He studied music composition in college and toured regionally in the Midwest in various groups. Alex lives in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with his wife and son, where he works as a journalist and podcast producer.
Rob Petersen, Bass
Rob, who hails from Medway MA, has been holding down the bottom end for over 35 years. He’s always had a deep connection to his instrument, and his life-long commitment to his craft continues to shape his musical journey and foster solid relationships with others who share his passion for music.