This month’s installment of the DC Jazz Loft features bassist/vocalist Nicole Saphos and vibraphonist Chris Barrick, two respected young musicians starting to make waves on the District’s scene. All musicians who come out are encouraged to bring their instruments; the night will end in an open jam, and anything can happen at the loft.
Longtime CapitalBop readers might remember NICOLE SAPHOS from the appearance of her debut record, Tiptoe, on our stacked Best Albums of 2016 list. And those with an ear to the ground will recognize her signature blend of singer-songwriter lyricism and straight-ahead jazz chops from her regular gigs at Marx Cafe, Sotto and the Alex, among others. Her substantial original songbook reflects the influence of popular musicians like Regina Spektor, Norah Jones and Ingrid Michaelson, but her extensive experience in the D.C. and Philadelphia jazz scenes allows her to have a huge amount of flexibility with her writing — and on both electric and upright basses. Saphos’s super-tight, longstanding trio of John Lee (guitar) and Ele Rubenstein (drums) can let loose in a major way.
Vibraphonist CHRIS BARRICK is a recent re-arrival to D.C., and he’s wasted no time getting back into the mix. Barrick excels both as a bandleader and a soloist, wielding a powerful skill-set of fearsome technical ability and tasteful restraint. The vibraphone is an instrument that doesn’t get the attention it deserves in the District, and Barrick’s presence on the scene has been a gift in that respect. There’s nothing quite like walking into a show and hearing the shimmering tone of mallets on metal, particularly in the hands of a masterful percussionist. At this loft, Barrick brings a trio of T.J. Turqman (bass) and Ele Rubenstein (drums).
