Jayson Collins Jazz Ensemble

The Jason Collins Septet is a jazz ensemble comprised of some of the best and most experienced musicians in the Chippewa Valley. Together they play original compositions by group leader Jay Collins, who incorporates odd meter and melodic layering inspired by Thelonious Monk, Dave Holland, Charles Mingus and Wynton Marsalis. Local pianist/composer Patrick Pesek-Herriges calls the septet "the most innovative jazz group in our cultural landscape ... edgy, rhythmically challenging, and high energy, then ... meditative, soulful and balladic. Every arrangement gives generous space for improvisation by the fine musicians in this ensemble." Drummer/Composer Mike Malone is also lavish in his praise of Collins' work: "Jay Collins brings a great sense of creativity and an inventive spirit into the Chippewa Valley jazz scene. His original compositions area among the most interesting of any group in the area. His septet features players who play this music superbly." Septet members include Dean Granros on guitar, Josh Gallagher on piano, Eric Thompson on bass, Jeff Reitz on tenor saxophone and flute, Pat Binford on clarinet and soprano saxophone, and Adam Nussbaum on percussion. The members of the band each have decades of performance experience, and have traveled the United States and around the world. Different members of the band have played with Dave King, Anthony Cox and Mike Vox, just to name a few.