Does BRJ take on a lot projects for one guy? Well, he just can’t help it. Here’s a list of his bands, from solo to 7-piece and most configurations in between:
BRJ & the Jump City Diplomats in France
This is a brand new project – a fabulous 7-piece band, including Jake and his sax player, Alison Young and 5 talented musicians from France. Their first show was a smash during Jake’s 2011 tour of France, and it will be exciting to watch things unfold. Watch this space for more info, and to book Jake in Europe, contact:
BRJ & the Jump City Crusaders in Canada
The Crusaders are the Canadian counterpart to the French band. Jake missed having the trombone sound up on stage with the gang. That’s why there’s now a 7 piece Big Rude Jake band on each side of the Atlantic.
The BR2
The BR2 is the Big Rude Duet and features Jake with another talented player sitting in, playing smoking renditions of all-original songs in intimate settings.
With BR2, Jake has partnered with such talented side-players as saxophonist Alison Young and trumpet players Howard Moore of the Vipers and legendary Toronto bandleader, Michael Johnson.
You can find some great BR2 footage: BRJ on YouTube
Solo
Solo acoustic guitar in the tradition of ragtime finger picking heroes like Leon Redbone and Jake’s teacher and mentor, Mose Scarlett.
He presents his original songs in this bare-bones context at lots of House Concerts, folk clubs, opening for his other bands, and making special appearances at private parties and social events.
And of course, BRJ plays classics regularly for seniors in long term care facilities. He’s done it for a long time now, and knows that it’s important, satisfying work. Check out Aquavitae for more about that.
BR4
The BR4, or the Big Rude Quartet, features Jake on acoustic guitar, plus a sax, bass and drums. This band is on the road a lot as it is one of the best ways to dig the Big Rude sound. Featuring Alison Young on Sax, Wes Neal on Bass and Cleave Anderson, formerly of Blue Rodeo, on drums.
