Kevin Tkacz

Born in Indiana and raised for the most part near Lexington, Kentucky, bassist Kevin Tkacz (pronounced “tax”) came into his own as a jazz artist in the exploratory urban environment of Chicago. A Brooklyn resident since 2005, he has made a mark on the cutting edge of the New York jazz scene, working with the likes of Matana Roberts, Ralph Alessi, Angelica Sanchez, Russ Lossing, Gerald Cleaver, Kris Davis, Eri Yamamoto and more.

Tkacz, 37, began his musical life on trumpet and then guitar before picking up the electric bass, switching to upright during his college years (at North Texas, University of Kentucky and DePaul). He cites Marc Johnson, Gary Peacock, Wilbur Ware, Ed Schuller and Anthony Cox as key role models on his instrument.

In parallel to his invaluable sideman experience, Tkacz has nourished an inquisitive, compelling voice as a leader and composer. He now makes his debut with It’s Not What You Think, an impressive trio session featuring pianist Bill Carrothers and drummer Michael Sarin.

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