Dave Slonaker Big Band

The Dave Slonaker Big Band is a powerhouse ensemble led by composer, arranger, and trombonist Dave Slonaker, who's been making waves in the modern jazz scene with his fresh take on big band music. Based out of California, Slonaker draws from a rich background in film and TV scoring—think work on shows like "The Simpsons" and films with folks like John Williams—to craft intricate, cinematic arrangements that blend swing, fusion, and contemporary vibes. Their debut album "Intrada" dropped in 2013 and snagged a Grammy nomination for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album, showcasing Slonaker's knack for dynamic compositions that keep things exciting and accessible.

Fast forward to their 2021 release "Convergency," which builds on that momentum with tracks like "Shifty Paradigms" and "Bye Bye Blues," highlighting the band's tight-knit crew of top-tier musicians from the LA jazz world. Whether it's through Slonaker's original tunes or clever reimaginings, the group delivers high-energy performances that appeal to both jazz purists and newcomers, proving big band isn't just a relic of the past—it's evolving and thriving under his direction.

Genres