James M Gregg

Biography

In a tradition stretching from Miles Davis through Jon Hassell, Randy Brecker and contemporary artists such as Christian Scott, Cuong Vu and Dave Douglas, James M. Gregg extends the tonal palette of his trumpet and extends the language of jazz with an interesting and inventive sound. Focusing on original compositions, he blends the sonic qualities of rock with traces of Latin and Eastern European music and presents them with the freedom and creativity of jazz improvisation.

James' debut album "Another Bridge Born" is scheduled for release in June 2011, featuring the talents of local jazz icon Andrew Oliver with guitarist Neil Mattson, bassist Sam Howard and drummer Kevin VanGeem. The album is produced by Portland indie-rock impresario Chris Robley and engineered by Rob Stroup at 8 Ball Studios.

An in-demand trumpeter on the Portland OR music scene, James has made forays into the rock and funk scene as a member of the popular latin-funk band Rubberneck and lounge-pop group Jesus Presley. He has played with artists such as The Decemberists, Devin Phillips, Shelly Rudolph, Chris Robley, and others. Currently James doubles as the MC and director of the 20-piece Bureau of Standards Big Band, focusing on the big band hits of Frank Sinatra, Cab Calloway, Ella Fitzgerald, Michael Buble and Natalie Cole. Previously, Gregg was a music instructor at Northern Arizona University and Coconino Community College in Flagstaff, Arizona, where he worked alongside Dr. Pete Vivona (Kai Winding Septette) and Joel DiBartolo (Tonight Show Orchestra).