Struttin' at the Winedale, the highly anticipated debut album from Dallas-based saxophonist and flautist Dave Monsch, is now available on Lucky Buck Records. This dynamic release marks a significant milestone in Monsch's musical career, showcasing his mastery of both the saxophone and flute while drawing from a diverse range of jazz influences. A collection of original compositions and exciting ensemble performances, Struttin’ at the Winedale is a testament to Monsch's rich musical background and his passion for pushing the boundaries of modern jazz.
Born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in a musical household, Monsch was introduced to music early in life, with both of his parents being musicians and educators. His formal training began with saxophone lessons under the guidance of local legend Cy Hays. As he honed his craft, Monsch’s love for jazz flourished, and he eventually moved to Texas to attend the prestigious University of North Texas (UNT) where he immersed himself in a diverse range of musical genres, including big band, small group jazz, funk, world music, and avant-garde styles. His experiences at UNT, alongside a rich career of touring and performing, helped shape his unique sound, which blends technical prowess with deep emotional expression.
After earning his Bachelor’s degree in Music/Jazz Performance, Monsch's career took him from cruise ships to New York City, before eventually landing in Dallas, where he became a prominent figure in the city's vibrant jazz scene. His time playing with the group Flipside proved to be a pivotal chapter in his musical journey, influencing both his compositions and his approach to live performance. Over the years, Monsch has also worked as a sought-after studio musician, collaborating with a wide range of exceptional artists.
Now, with Struttin’ at the Winedale, Monsch brings his vast experience and distinctive voice to the forefront. Featuring a stellar lineup of musicians, the album blends intricate melodies and improvisation with a deep groove that draws listeners in from the first note. Monsch’s versatility on saxophone, alto flute, and bass clarinet is showcased across the eight tracks, which include the playful "Joe Through Osmosis," the reflective "Mind Dream," and the upbeat title track, "Struttin’ at the Winedale." His compositions reflect a diverse musical background, seamlessly weaving elements of jazz, funk, and world music into a cohesive and dynamic sound.
The album features a talented group of musicians, including bassist Paul Unger, drummer Dennis Durick, pianist Brad Williams, and trombonist/accordionist David Pierce. Together, they create a rich, layered sound that complements Monsch’s vision while allowing each musician to shine. The result is an album that is both exploratory and accessible, offering something for jazz aficionados and casual listeners alike.
Struttin’ at the Winedale marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Dave Monsch and Lucky Buck Records, a label known for its commitment to nurturing and supporting exceptional talent. Lucky Buck Records, based in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, has quickly become a go-to destination for high-quality jazz releases, and Monsch’s debut further solidifies the label's reputation for producing world-class music.
As the album hits shelves, both digital and vinyl, it represents not just a personal achievement for Monsch, but also an exciting new voice in the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary jazz. With Struttin’ at the Winedale, Dave Monsch proves that he is not just a talented instrumentalist, but also a gifted composer who is ready to take his place among the next generation of jazz greats.
No comments:
Post a Comment