John Bacon Quintet

JBQ is a modern jazz group primarily playing original compositions that blend Hard Bop and modern excursions.

Led by Buffalo-based drummer, composer, and educator John Bacon Jr., this quintet brings together some of Western New York’s most compelling improvisers for an evening of original music and adventurous jazz. Bacon’s compositions balance structure and spontaneity , rhythmically charged, harmonically rich, and deeply rooted in the modern jazz tradition while remaining open to risk and exploration. As both a bandleader and collaborator, he creates space for dialogue: between players, between composition and improvisation, between pulse and breath.

Expect music that is thoughtful yet alive in the moment , dynamic interplay, bold solos, and the kind of listening that turns a performance into a shared experience. An evening of serious musicianship, creative fire, and the unmistakable spirit of Buffalo jazz.

Lindsey Holland – vocals

Griff Kazmierczak – trumpet

Elliot Scozzaro, – sax

Harry Graser – piano

Ed Croft – bass

John Bacon – drums

Photo by: Jack Zuff