Michael Blake: Biography

"Panoramic imagination"

The New York Times

Born: May 19, 1964 in Montreal, Canada

Saxophonist/composer Michael Blake has managed to embrace jazz history while challenging it head on. Honing his skills in John Lurie's iconic downtown band the Lounge Lizards, his presence as a jazz artist has earned him accolades in countless jazz publications - including jazz artist of the year in Downbeat's Rising Star category. His first album was produced by the legendary Teo Macero and hailed as a masterpiece. He has since produced another 10 CDs as a leader. Michael is based in Brooklyn but also keeps a foot in his hometown of Vancouver, Canada where he records for Songlines Records. He has written for TV and film and can be heard on the popular kids show theme 'The Backyardigans'. Michael's recent TV appearances include Saturday Night Live and Conan O'Brien with Ray Lamontagne. Currently Michael is actively performing with his trio, bassist Ben Allison and flautist Nicole Mitchell.

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