Experimental Jazz Trio Performs at Grey Horse Tavern

The Don Miller Jazz Trio played a concert "Upstairs" at the Grey Horse Tavern in Bayport on Saturday at 8 p.m.; this was the first time the triumvirate of experienced musicians had ever performed together as a trio. 

Bassist and composer Don Miller has spent the past three decades extensively performing, recording and traveling throughout the United States and the world, alongside such legendary artists as Dizzy Gillespie, Tony Bennett, David Amram and countless others. The band consists of Don Miller on upright bass, Vic Juris on guitar and electronic effects and Kevin Twigg on drums.  

Twigg was looking forward to navigating uncharted territory that evening.  He said, "I'll be playing classic jazz with some very special musicians that I have a high regard for; there will be a lot of spontaneity.  The three of us haven't done this together before, it's taking a risk—that's what jazz is all about."

"It's a guitar trio with some electronic effects.  (The set includes) some mainstream jazz, some modern jazz and some rock influences," said Juris.  The performance primarily consisting of jazz standards was given a modern twist via Juris' judicious use of electronics; which infused the sonic landscape with an expansive, ethereal quality and a vaguely psychedelic touch.  The guitarist said, "I've been interested in effects since I was a kid.  I like it to be part of the music, not a gimmick."

Expressive and charismatic, Miller is as captivating to watch as he is to hear.  His fingers furiously work the strings with effortless exuberance.  It was evident that he puts his entire heart, mind and body into every second of his performances. "When I play an instrument I basically tune everything out ... I practice every day, every night.  This is what I've done my whole life."

A virtuoso on acoustic bass and various electric basses, Miller has been featured on US and world tours with pop stars such as Britney Spears (on her 2001 tour), O-Town, Enrique Iglesias and served as musical director and bassist for 'N Sync.

 The dynamic performer has played at nearly every major venue from Madison Square Garden and Carnegie Hall, to the Staples Center in Los Angeles.  In addition to this, Miller has cultivated a much lauded solo career, as well as devoted many years to being an educator. Juris is one of the most respected jazz guitarists today.  He is on the faculty of Rutgers University in New Jersey and The New School in NYC.

Miller's current album, dial M for Bass has been praised by jazz enthusiasts and critics alike, and received national airplay.

Born in Brooklyn, Miller accumulated the majority of his musical experience while residing in New York, Los Angeles and Miami.  He returned home to New York in 2005, and now resides in the Hudson Valley, not far from Woodstock.  Currently, he is working on his follow-up album, penning a comprehensive bass method manual, regularly performing live and continuing to work as a music educator and mentor.

Twigg is a graduate of Bayport-Blue Point High School (class of '74), and the Manhattan School of Music.  He is also a member of the David Amram Quartet, and recently composed the score for a production of Shakespeare's Julius Caesar.

The audience was impressed with the Don Miller Jazz Trio performance. Wayne from Glen Head said, "I came here with no expectations, and this is world-class music."

The show included songs such as John Coltrane's "Impressions, "All of You" by Cole Porter, Charlie Parker's "Yardbird Suite" and the Duke Ellington ballad "I'm Getting Sentimental Over You."

Donn from Babylon purchased Miller's CD after the show.  "I was blown away," he said, "You don't hear music like this every other day."

Find out more at www.donmillerbass.com.