Jonathan Finlayson & Sicilian Defense

“Moving Still is the most gorgeous, enticing, classic album of 2016 in jazz so far.”—Pop Matters

Jazz trumpeter Jonathan Finlayson’s album Moving Still (Pi Recordings) with the band Sicilian Defense has quickly garnered critical raves, including Finlayson being named as Best New Artist in JazzTimes’ critics’ poll. The album showcases the trumpeter’s clean-pitched agility and fresh phrasing, as well as deft, joyous ensemble playing with well-designed strategies in sound.

The name Sicilian Defense is taken from a classic chess ploy, a passion Finlayson shares with innovative guitarist Miles Okazaki, his close bandmate in this project as well as in Steve Coleman and Five Elements. Joined by David Bryant on piano, Chris Tordini on bass, and Craig Weinrib on drums, they bring fiery intensity and cool control to the enthralling twists and turns of Finlayson’s intricate tunes. Be there as this exciting young group lights up the best room for jazz in town.