Album Notes

Drawing from traditional jazz, classic rhythm & blues, and contemporary smooth pop, "the Uptown sound" is a rare and exhilarating blend of musical excellence, soulful rhythm, and high-energy performance.

Both sophisticated and fun, Uptown is known for their distinctive interpretations of classic songs by artists such as Norah Jones, Al Green, Diana Krall, Van Morrison and Aretha Franklin.

Led by vocalist Monica Barden, pianist Mike Barden, and saxophonist Bill Jordan, Uptown has built their reputation as one of Wisconsin's premiere ensembles at fine establishments, corporate events, and private receptions all across the state.

Since its beginning in 2003, Uptown has been an ongoing musical collaboration and friendship between Monica Barden, Mike Barden, and Bill Jordan. Mike and Monica are married, and live in Waupaca with their two children; Bill lives in Stevens Point with his wife Gina and their three children.

Before 2003, Mike and Monica had worked together musically--as had Mike and Bill--but not the three together. Then, a jazz duo between Mike and Bill began a conversation about starting a group with all three that could incorporate Mike and Bill's jazz background, Monica's R&B influences, and the appreciation all three had for jazz-influenced pop music. An idea was developed, and a band was born.

Uptown started their performing career playing at the Casa Loma in Marshfield, but rapidly expanded to include other venues such as the Deja Vu and the Seasons in Appleton, the City Grill in Wausau, the Clark Place in Stevens Point and the Starlight Lounge in LaCrosse.

As Uptown's set list became more established, they felt they were ready to record their debut CD, Coverage, made up of the band's "cover" versions of a variety of songs, ranging from pop to R&B to jazz. Coverage was released in 2005, was well-received by fans, and continues to sell in digital format all around the world through distributors such as iTunes.

After the release of Coverage, Uptown continued to develop its sound and its reputation as a quality ensemble, performing at corporate events, private parties, Stevens Point's Riverfront Rendezvous and Sentryworld's Jazz on the Patio, Wausau's Festival of the Arts, as well as a standing-ovation performance at the exclusive Fox Note jazz club.

Uptown continues to grow as an ensemble, meeting and exceeding the expectations of their fans. The latest live shows reveal a stronger and more developed ensemble, and an even more distinctive "Uptown sound". Also, another CD is in the works, so stay posted!