The Pace Report: “Outward Journeyman”

In a very short time, saxophonist and bandleader Brandon Wright has gained the respect and accolades from the jazz and rock circles over the last decade. His sophomore project “Journeyman” on the Posi-Tone record label has gotten lots of critical acclaim as well as being hailed as one of the best jazz recordings so far in 2012. The disc features six of his own compositions and continues to expose his love and passion for playing jazz standards. Brandon also plays music of his generation from bands like Pearl Jam to Oasis.

The Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey native was inspired to play the saxophone as a child by watching a episode of the classic animated series “The Simpsons” in which the daughter, Lisa Simpson, encounters the Springfield, Illinois sax legend, ‘Bleeding’ Gums Murphy. He eventually took up the sax enrolling in a jazz workshop for teens hosted by the legendary bassist Rufus Reid. From there Brandon studied and listened to the greats and decided to study and play the music as a profession. Brandon studied at both the University of Michigan and Miami and earned four Downbeat Student Music Awards.
Over the last decade he’s backed the likes of Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band, The Mingus Big Band, Fred Wesley, Doc Severinsen, and Chuck Mangione. In fact, he met his current band members: David Kikoski, Boris Kozlov, and Donald Edwards while playing in the Mingus Big Band.

Brandon is currently playing selected club dates across the country in support of the latest disc. For more information on him or to order his latest disc “Journeyman” please visit him online at www.wrightjazz.com.