Bassist Tom Kennedy has been described as “nothing short of inspiring” by L.A. Weekly and as “a true virtuoso” with “deep grooves and flawless technique evident in every performance”
by Down Beat magazine. A master on both the acoustic and electric bass, Tom began playing at age 9, and it was only one year later that he was building a high profile career in his hometown of St. Louis. By his late teens, he had already performed with jazz veterans Dizzy Gillespie, James Moody, Sonny Stitt, Freddie Hubbard, Barney Kessel, Eddie Harris, Nat Adderly and Stan Kenton, to name a few.
by Down Beat magazine. A master on both the acoustic and electric bass, Tom began playing at age 9, and it was only one year later that he was building a high profile career in his hometown of St. Louis. By his late teens, he had already performed with jazz veterans Dizzy Gillespie, James Moody, Sonny Stitt, Freddie Hubbard, Barney Kessel, Eddie Harris, Nat Adderly and Stan Kenton, to name a few.
Tom released his debut solo CD “Basses Loaded” in 1997 and his second solo release “Bassics” in 2002. With a signature style of deep, soulful grooves and acrobatic, horn-like solos, Tom brings an extraordinarily skilled and emotive presence to his playing, spotlighting the beauty of the bass. His artistry combined with a compelling onstage presence captures fans around the world.
Engaging her audiences with vibrant vocals that range from quiet vulnerability to soul-tinged power, vocalist Karla Harris has earned a reputation for delivering melodies with a sincere zest and spirit. A naturally dynamic singer with sparkling stage presence and a sterling voice, Karla captures the listener with a warm expressive vocal that breaths sensitivity,
skill and heartfelt nuance.
skill and heartfelt nuance.
At age 23, Tom relocated to New York where recording master guitarist Bill Connors’ electric album “Step It” and extensive touring with legendary jazz group “Steps Ahead” brought immediate recognition. Since then, his credits include performances and/or recordings with such greats as Rosemary Clooney, Diane Schurr, Tania Maria, Mike Stern, David Sanborn, Michael and Randy Brecker, Joe Sample, Lee Ritenour, Dave Grusin, Ernie Watts, Simon Philips, Virgil Donati and Bobby McFerrin. He has also been an integral voice in master drummer Dave Weckl’s Band for over nine years, and is represented on all of the band’s recordings.
Karla, who resides on the west coast, performs regularly at top jazz venues and festivals. She weaves standards and soul, backed by celebrated musicians whose credits include tours with headlining artists such as Mel Tormé, Tom Jones and Joe Cocker. Writes Jazz Scene magazine, “Always respectful of her American Songbook choices, Harris has superb intonation and a somewhat contemporary, yet appealing approach to the songs.” Of her live performances, Clubscene writes, “Karla Harris engages the audience and makes us happy to be sharing the evening with her,” and the Jazz Society of Oregon notes, “Karla tends to take the stage by storm and doesn’t let go till it’s all over.”
Tom and Karla first performed together in 2004. Their musical rapport soon moved from the stage to the studio, where the two recorded the CD “Twice As Nice.” A joint project released to sterling reviews, it highlights the music of seven Great American songbook composers and features celebrated guest musicians such as Ray Kennedy, longtime pianist for John Pizzarelli.
Together, Tom Kennedy and Karla Harris deliver performances with multi-textured moods, always true to the composers’ intent. Joined by top musicians on piano and drums, these artists bring a special show with a lift that lingers long after the last note is played.
Together, Tom Kennedy and Karla Harris deliver performances with multi-textured moods, always true to the composers’ intent. Joined by top musicians on piano and drums, these artists bring a special show with a lift that lingers long after the last note is played.
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