Album Notes

A native of Las Vegas, NV and a graduate of Grambling State University, he is a multi-faceted performer. At Grambling, he studied French Horn under Conrad Hutchinson and trumpet under Dr. Joseph Miller. He also performed with Frank Foster, who was then directing the Count Basie Orchestra. He later moved to New York state where he organized his first quintet and became well recognized in the local areas’ jam sessions and clubs. It was there he met Bill Saxton and Hugh Brodie who were instrumental in his development. Michael then relocated to the DC area where he and his quintet perform regularly. He also hosts jam sessions at DC’s HR-57 (Center for the Preservation of Jazz and Blues). In 1996, Michael was a scholarship recipient in the Fish Middleton Jazz Scholarship Contest at the East Coast Jazz Festival. To date, he has played with a number of notable musicians such as Keter Betts, Betty Carter, Jimmy Heath, Larry Willis, Shirley Scott, Slide Hampton, Buck Hill, Webster Young, Gary Bartz, Joe Williams, and others. Michael currently records for JazHead Entertainment with his Quintet. The latest CD is called "It Is What It Is" by the Michael Thomas Quintet which is the follow-up to "The Awakening" and "The Messenger" also on the JazHead label.

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The Michael Thomas Quintet is a powerful and energetic group that is deeply rooted in the rich tradition of jazz. With eight years together, the quintet has the unique capability to capture an audience and take them on an excursion to where "Hard-bop and Blues" swing joyfully, prayerfully, and soulfully. The group consists of members that know jazz, respect jazz, and love jazz. There is nothing "laid back" about this group.