Each band member is a bandleader and sideman in his own right, with a long list of performing and recording credits. The trio has been touring internationally, presenting concerts and giving masterclasses on improvisation and ensemble playing in places such as Ireland, Germany and Italy. Back home, they have performed at numerous jazz festivals, universities, and top New York City jazz clubs.
The trio performed and recorded for many years as the Joe Davidian Trio. As the band evolved over the years, so did the focus of their music. Rather than Davidian leading the group, the trio evolved into a true collective. “One of the best things about working with Jamie and Austin is how much we’re in sync,” says Davidian. “We all contribute equally to the music, so it made sense to change the name of the band to reflect that.”
As a trio, they have always enjoyed playing the beautiful and accessible melodies of jazz standards, with each member supporting and emphasizing the melody within that framework. For this recording though, they set out to compose their own songs influenced by the great melodic craftsmen of 20th century. In describing this concept, the trio speaks as one: “Some contemporary jazz groups focus on complex harmonies or intricate rhythms,” says Ousley. “But we wanted to get back to the idea of melody as the centerpiece of a song,” adds McMahon. And Davidian recalls, “we challenged each other to write new songs in the style of the old standards, with the melody being at the forefront. And, because our music harkens back to an earlier era, we came up with the title NEW SONGS FOR OLD SOULS for this album.”
The newly re-named The Lost Melody are known for their creative, interactive, and engaging performances. On NEW SONGS FOR OLD SOULS, they reach back to the past to create new sounds for the present.
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