Kelley Johnson Quartet / Butch Harrison at Seattle Jazz Fellowship

Vocalist Kelley Johnson has been a mainstay on the Seattle jazz vocal scene for some time now, both as a performer and educator. She brings a lyrical style to jazz vocals, expressing the story of a tune like a fine craftswoman. Johnson leads the talented trio of pianist John Hansen, bassist Michael Glynn and drummer Matt Jorgensen. all long-time associates and top tier Seattle players. Most importantly, she lets the cats play and inserts her contributions as a member of the band. There’s tons of familiarity here, creating a fine aesthetic.

It’s interesting to see trumpeter / vocalist Butch Harrison on the bill at SJF...

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Vocalist Kelley Johnson has been a mainstay on the Seattle jazz vocal scene for some time now, both as a performer and educator. She brings a lyrical style to jazz vocals, expressing the story of a tune like a fine craftswoman. Johnson leads the talented trio of pianist John Hansen, bassist Michael Glynn and drummer Matt Jorgensen. all long-time associates and top tier Seattle players. Most importantly, she lets the cats play and inserts her contributions as a member of the band. There’s tons of familiarity here, creating a fine aesthetic.

It’s interesting to see trumpeter / vocalist Butch Harrison on the bill at SJF. Harrison frequents area jam sessions, but his live performances often fall under the rhythm and blues category in terms of venues and audience. Originally from Philadelphia, Harrison carries that soul element in his playing and vocal style. This gig in some ways is an introduction to the SJF audience to an artist that has been around the Seattle scene for a considerable stretch. It’s good to see him booked on a jazz stage in front of a jazz listening audience, giving his music a focus and feature we have seldom seen. Harrison is an entertainer, as well as a musician, and we need more of that in our music! Band TBA https://seattlejazzfellowship.org/events

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