Album Notes

The 8 Legged Monster was born in 2007 in an effort to reintroduce an element to jazz that has been lacking in recent years: the excitement of densely arranged small group big-band music. With a nod to tradition 8LM brings new life to the genre through musical exploration. Since its inception, 8LM has been turning heads in the Bay Area's Jazz community. Founder Mike Irwin's arrangements offer the classic sound of early Bebop, yet with an entirely new attitude and approach to harmony. The Monster has such a distinct sound because they encompass all the musical styles that the jazz lineage has passed through, from swing to free-jazz, yet they bring to it an original, fresh sound. Already a fast favorite amongst the SF jazz community of musicians, they're one of the most entertaining and fun new bands to see.

The Band Members are: Mike Irwin Johnson (guitar/arr.), Mike Olmos (trumpet), Rob Barics (clarinet), Gabe Eaton (alto sax), Noel Jewkes (tenor sax), Danny Grewen (trombone), Fil Lorenz (baritone sax), Smith Dobson (drums) & Seth Ford-Young (bass).