Album Notes

IN THE TRADITION is drummer Mike Melito\'s forth CD as a leader. The drummer has worked with some of the greatest names in jazz. Mike has played with such legends as Benny Golson, James Moody, Barry Harris,JR Monterose to name a few. He has also played and recorded with such names as Vincent Herring, Eric Alexander, Grant Stewart, Dennis Irwin, Danilo Perez,Cyrus Chestnut,John Swana, David Hazeltine, Peter Bernstein, Joe Magnarelli, Joe Locke,Pat Labarbera, Walt Weiskopf, Ralph Lalama,Joe Romano, Harry Allen, Phil Flanigan and many more. He has appeared on several CDs as a sideman as well. His playing on his gigs and recordings has generated much critical acclaim. Chris Hovan of Downbeat writes \" As far as interpreting the mainstream, Melito does it just as well as anyone else out there.\" All About Jazz writer Robert Iannapollo writes in review of Melito\'s playing with Benny Golson\'s Quartet \" He propelled the music with finesse, and Golson featured him liberally, seemingly enjoying his playing.\" Dave Miele of Jazz Improv magazine writes on Melito\'s playing on his last CD THE NEXT STEP, \" You\'ll find an excellent contemporary drummer with clearly defined roots that in no way prevent him from attaining an individual sound on the instrument.\"
The players on In The Tradition are some of the finest on the scene today. Saxophonist Grant Stewart has appeared on many CD\'s as a sideman and leader. His playing credits include the groups of Jimmy Cobb, Larry Goldings, Ryan Kisor and many others.
Trumpeter John Swana has several CDs out under his own name on the Criss Cross label. He has appeared and recorded with Chris Potter, Eric Alexander, Christian McBride, Kenny Barron, Mickey Roker, Peter Bernstein and several others.
Pianist Paul Hofmann playing credits include Vincent Herring, Karrin Allison, Don Menza, Pat Labarbera to name a few. He currently is on staff at The Eastman School Of Music in Rochester and owns MHR records.
Guitarist Bob Sneider has appeared with Nat Adderley, Stanley Turrentine, Roy McCurdy and many more. Bob is also a professor of jazz guitar at The Eastman School Of Music.
Bassist Neal Miner is currently touring with vocalist Jane Monheit. He has appeared in many of the major NYC jazz clubs with names such as Ryan Kisor, Joe Magnarelli,Eric Alexander, Dena Derose, Annie Ross to name a few.