New Orleans-based vocalist Anna Laura Quinn is rapidly gaining notice for her particular blend of contemporary jazz, well-loved tunes from the American Songbook, French and Brazilian music, and more, all delivered with style, emotional power, and a joie de vivre that recalls the charm and mystique of a bygone era. After receiving her Masters of Jazz Studies (M.M.) from University of New Orleans in 2021, she released her first full length album Open the Door in February 2022. The record features nine of her own arrangements, which Jazz Times critic Andrew Gilbert praises for "artfully thread[ing] the jazz needle” and “establishing her own winsome identity as a savvy vocalist and arranger with an appealing sound, unfailing taste, and expansive palette of influences." Anna is propelled by her unwavering dedication to music, visual art, and collaboration. She brings a creative spirit to her craft as a vocalist, leaning into the improvisational essence of the jazz idiom and singing with sincerity, humor, and imagination.
Over the course of his career, New Orleans-based guitarist Ed Barrett has successfully blended several genres into his own concept of contemporary jazz guitar playing. His approach reflects a lifelong love affair with music, which was initiated when he saw a live performance by blues guitar giant Stevie Ray Vaughan as a teenager. Now a professional musician for over thirty years, versatility and understatement are linchpins of his musical world, whether playing in a small ensemble jazz format or with any number of New Orleans’ blues and funk driven outfits. His unique take on jazz guitar reflects his wide-ranging influences and a typical set with his trio will cover Bach chorales; the music of Bill Frisell, George Benson, Jimi Hendrix, Jimmy Smith, and Hugh Masakela; songbook standards in the vein of Bill Evans, Paul Desmond, and his most profound influence, guitarist Ed Bickert. His extensive repertoire and soulful mastery of the guitar are certain to satisfy even the most discerning of audiences. Ed’s guitar stylings are prominently featured on Anna Laura Quinn’s 2022 release Open the Door.
