Matt Vandal Matt Vandal is a remarkable guitarist. His solo fingerstyle sound will remind you of Leo Kottke and Chet Atkins, both of whom are clear influences on his style. Then his fusion trio will ignite your ears with his enthralling and melodious guitar solos. You will hear his many influences in his playing. Including Eric Johnson, Steve Morse, Pat Matheny, and Bireli Lagrene; among many others.
Matt was born in Minnesota, lived in Wisconsin, Florida, Alabama, and Georgia before moving to Arizona 7 years ago. After completing his bachelor’s degree in psychology, he decided to “put it to good use and play music full time”. Matt has been playing guitar since the age of seven. “I grew up in a VERY musical home. My Dad played in bands while attending college and my Mom is a classically trained pianist. Two of my brothers are guitar players and another brother played bass. My family has always been connected in one way or another to that beautiful sonic universe that is music.” states Matt.
He has played as many styles of music as he can get his hands on. He was a member of the Pensacola Guitar Ensemble (a classical guitar quartet) is currently teaching guitar, and plays out with the Vandal Hancock Duo and Matt Vandal Group with is a fusion quartet. His versatility can be heard when he plays whatever style he chooses at any given time. He is a dynamic performer of a rich and diverse musical legacy. Matt's live repertoire contains original music as well as classical pieces, jazz, fusion, blues, and more. While you will find his techniques impressive, you will find his sound to be remarkably vibrant and harmonious.
Jeff Curnutt Jeff Curnutt has been playing drums and percussion for over 40 years. He studied music business at Belmont University and studied and performed in several ensembles at the University of North Texas. In the early 90s he toured and performed with Hey Bra recording artist Flat Mass. Jeff has a fascination with rhythm and time, and constantly explores ways to express these in interesting ways. He has many influences, but commonly cites innovators such as Max Roach, Tony Williams, Elvin Jones, Brian Blade, Steve Gadd, Bill Bruford, Bill Stewart, Marcus Gilmore, Eric Harland, and Tyshawn Sorey as some of his favorites.