Formed in 2007 by trumpeter/composer James Barela, BLu7 is a fresh new voice in the world of modern jazz. Their music combines elements of modern jazz with world music and contemporary beats in organic and unforced manner accessible to all who listen. Evidence of this can be heard on their debut CD, “Cultural Instigator” released in June of 2008. This project features eight original tunes fusing elements of jazz, flamenco, bossa-nova, r&b, industrial, hip-hop, and free jazz. Reviews have been excellent and it is clear BLu7’s star is on the rise. The second track on the CD, “Kelly”, has been one of the most downloaded tunes on allaboutjazz.com. “Matador”, the first track, is being featured on a jazz compilation CD produced by KUNV 91.5 fm in Las Vegas. Both tunes as well as the others are receiving airplay on many radio, satellite radio, and internet radio stations around the world.
The members of BLu7 are James Barela (trumpet, flugelhorn, EVI), EJ Delgado (guitar), Rachel Delgado (piano, rhodes, synth), Mitchell Anthony (drums) and Justin Vogel (bass). Each musician brings with them decades of experience and the creative edge to make such an ambitious project successful.
BLu7 have been featured artists on shows in Australia, New Zealand, Taiwan, Canada, U.K., United States, Turkey, Indonesia, Greece, and Italy. Their music is played worldwide.
Featured on the BBC, NPR, and Taiwan National Radio.
