Born: March 16, 1963 Primary Instrument: Guitar
The David Joel Quartet is an original contemporary jazz-fusion group steeped in the jazz tradition but with many other musical influences as well. The group's compositions range in style from straight ahead jazz, rock, fusion, funk, and gospel which the group weaves into a unique and aesthetic style all it’s own. Composer/guitarist David Joel has performed throughout the east coast, in Europe and Japan, and is joined by some of Philadelphia’s finest jazz musicians: John Stenger - keys, Paul Gehman - bass and Dan Monaghan drums.
The group is an exciting, progressive, electric jazz ensemble employing the traditions of jazz melody, harmony and form, in a contemporary format. Its influences of straight- ahead jazz, bossa nova and samba, rock, blues, fusion, and other disparate 20th century music bring a fresh and distinct flavor to its sonic palette. The majority of compositions performed are composed by David. The group has taken different forms since its beginnings in 1988 and has performed in Boston, Washington, D.C. and In Philadelphia with various repertoire and contributing players over the years. Its members now include: David Joel (guitar), Paul Gehman (bass), John Stenger (keyboards) and Daniel Monaghan (drums). Some tri-state area clubs and venues where the group has performed include: Chris’ Jazz Cafe, Ortliebs Jazzhaus, The World Cafe Live, Fergie’s Pub , The Temperance House, John and Peter’s, etc. A live disk, “Live At Chris’,” was recorded at Chris’ Jazz Cafe in Philadelphia in 2003. Plans for 2006 include a new studio recording. The group performs regularly throughout the Philadelphia and tri-state area.
