We had the great fortune of stumbling onto Jake Schepps, first class banjoist and composer, and submit for your reading entertainment, a review of his latest projet with mandolinist Matt Flinner, "Ten Thousand Leaves."

From his website: "With engaging, dynamic material that reflects the Colorado aesthetic of roots music, the band focuses on creative composition, melodic ideas and tasteful solos. The Expedition Quartet remains true to the artistic values of stringband, yet draws on certain jazz sensibilities, such as improvisation and more extended harmonies. The group includes Ryan Drickey on violin, Greg Schochet on guitar and mandolin, and Eric Thorin on bass. More information is here. Jake also plays with the 'chamber-grass' ensemble called the Strings of Tao featuring an eclectic mix of original compositions, jazz, Brazilian choro and traditional fiddle tunes.

"Over the years, Jake has performed on stage with Leftover Salmon, Yonder Mountain String Band , Matt Flinner Trio, Runaway Truck Ramp, Abigail Washburn, Jangeun Bae, Brian Prunka, the Classical Mandolin Society's Orchestra with Don Stiernberg, Tony Furtado, Boulder Acoustic Society and many more."

Of course we were thrilled to hear anything Matt Flinner touched (he produced the project and offers his mandolin talents on many of the cuts), but Jake has a good ear for a tune, as well as a masterful sense of composition. The ensemble plays well together in a tasteful and thorough compilation of original material.

Read review: Ten Thousand Leaves

Artist website: Jake Schepps

Posted by Ted at August 10, 2007 6:14 AM