Mandolin magus and composer Jamle Masefield's constantly evolving Jazz Mandolin Project is being revealed, as his latest trio makes its trek in 1999. Masefield expertly uses his mandolin to improvise his own eclectic blend of sounds including classical, rock, and traditional sounds from around the world, with a sound accessible to all music fans. This Vermont export has reaped acclaim internationally, garnering a fan base that extends from coast to coast and across the Atlantic, through its relentless touring schedule of sold-out gigs at clubs, theatres, colleges, and festivals. Of the group's latest album Tour de Flux, Downbeat Magazine says "The Jazz Mandolin Project takes a tremendous leap..." The Boston Globe said "If the jazz world gave awards for most improved ensemble, Jatole Masefield's Jazz Mandolin Project would be a serious contender." Jazz Times magazine says, "(The Mandolin) creates an experimental alternative-music genre, spiced by dollops of hip-hop, free jazz and contemporary riffs...It's new, it's different...". And following the project's appearance at the Newport Jazz Festival at Saratoga, The Saratogian said "...an interesting and eclectic set that changed the minds of many about the jazz potential of the mandolin." Northeast Performer magazine calls Jamle Masefield "A pioneer...there is a refreshing brightness that sets his sound apart." The Jazz Mandolin Project is an evolving process and an experimental adventure. Its quality of musicianship and performance concepts put it in a league of only the best and most unique. As the Jazz Mandolin Project heads out on the road again, musical sparks will fly!
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Masefield, born March 9, 1966 in Warwick, New York, is a graduate of the University Of Vermont, with a degree in environmental studies and geography. He began his musical journey in 1977, when at age 11 he took the tenor banjo and played Dixieland jazz. He soon made the similarly-tuned mandolin his primary means of musical expression; and began studying composition and world music.
Chris Dahlgren, upright bass player and composer for Jazz Mandolin Project, added his matchless musical voice to the band for the sold-out Tour De Flux during the months of January and February of 1998. Dahlgren is a veteran of the New York downtown music scene, as well as a much traveled accompanist to jazz legends such as Joe Lovano, Red Rodney, and Herb Ellis. Chris also has his own solo album recorded on the Koch Jazz Label.
Percussionist/ composer Ariel Hoenig, originally from Philadelphia, pa, also currently resides in the Brooklyn, where he has been wowing jazz enthusiasts with his drumming since he graduated from the university of north Texas in 1995. Arl has appeared in concert with such jazz greats as Mike Stern, Kenny Werner, Shirley Scott, Mark Whitfield, and a multitude of others in his young and explosive career.
