Sextet

The Andrew Oliver Sextet performs original compositions by its members which draw on jazz, world music, rock, and other influences.  The sextet’s music, strongly rooted in the jazz tradition, is fresh and relevant in a time when access to all genres of music is at an all-time high.  The band has been playing together for over three years, and the close musical relationships among the band members are evident in their performances and recordings.  During this time, they have developed a unique ensemble sound and a challenging and diverse book which holds the interest of its audiences.  The group has performed at Portland’s finest venues including Jimmy Mak’s, the Doug Fir Lounge, the Blue Monk, and the Cave.  Their debut album “Otis Stomp” was selected as a jazz pick of 2008 in the Oregonian newspaper, and their second album, “82% Chance of Rain” will be released in April 2010 on OA2 Records.

Band:

Andrew Oliver – piano, electric piano
Mary-Sue Tobin – soprano sax, alto sax, clarinet
Willie Matheis – tenor sax, soprano sax
Dan Duval – guitar
Eric Gruber – bass
Kevin Van Geem – drums

Listen:

“Only A Quality Lime for Eric Gruber #1” (by Dan Duval) from “82% Chance of Rain” (forthcoming)

“Biannual/Biennial” (by Andrew Oliver) from “82% Chance of Rain” (forthcoming)

“Public and Republic” (by Dan Duval) from “82% Chance of Rain” (forthcoming)

“Ville Triste” (by Andrew Oliver) from “Otis Stomp” (2008)

“Szesc” (by Andrew Oliver) from “Otis Stomp” (2008)

Press:

“The sextet treated the crowd to a terrific evening of their diverse brand of jazz, mixing a variety of genres from driving rock to swing to world influences.  For those who wonder about the future of jazz, the Oliver Sextet gives a brilliant display of what younger jazz musicians in Portland have to offer. Their  experience, diversity and musicianship are clearly evident in their ability to meld instruments and genres into fine jazz albums and performances.” – John Pomietlasz, KMHD Jazz Notes

“The Andrew Oliver Sextet draws on traditional jazz, bop, cool, rock and everything in between to create a fresh, innovative sound that combines challenging arrangements with tuneful improvisation.” – Portland Tribune

“This record is a delight, the playing outstanding, and the fact these guys are young doesn’t hurt either. They tip the hat to the masters, yet never play it safe. They’ve gone to school, but still bring something new to the party. These kids are dangerous. I can’t wait to see what they do next.” – Don Campbell, Jazz Society of Oregon

“Oliver’s rhythmically vital originals incorporate rock and world-music influences in a decidedly non-superficial way that appeals broadly to jazz and other music fans.” – Willamette Week

Watch:

“Mixolydia” Live at the Someday Lounge – Portland Jazz Festival 2008