SPH8 - Double Album Release Concert

Doors open at 7pm | Music at 7:30pm (One 90-minut set)

Experience the electrifying fusion of jazz innovation and elemental inspiration as saxophonist, composer, and bandleader Stephen Philip Harvey takes the stage with his acclaimed ensemble, the Stephen Philip Harvey Octet (SPH8). Join us for an unforgettable evening of live music, as we celebrate the release of their latest albums, Elemental (Live) and Live at Radio Artifact.

Recorded amidst the vibrant energy of a live performance at Radio Artifact in Cincinnati, the SPH8 delivers a transcendent musical journey inspired by the elements of water, air, earth, and fire. With dynamic arrangements of tunes by jazz legends Wayne Shorter and Tim Green, alongside Harvey's own original compositions, this concert promises to be an immersive experience like no other.

From the driving vamps to the modern harmonies and myriad textures, Harvey and his ensemble weave together a rich tapestry of sound that transcends genres, seamlessly blending jazz with elements of classical, pop, funk, hip-hop, rock, and Gospel. It's a sonic exploration that reflects Harvey's diverse musical influences and his boundless creative spirit.

Join us as we delve into the boundless realms of musical expression with the SPH8, a collective of eight exceptionally talented musicians from the Mid-Atlantic and Midwest regions of the United States. With their unmatched virtuosity and passion for pushing the boundaries of jazz, SPH8 promises to deliver an evening of music that will leave you spellbound.

Don't miss your chance to experience the magic of the Stephen Philip Harvey Octet live in concert, as they bring the exhilarating sounds of Elemental (Live) and Live at Radio Artifact to life on stage. Mark your calendars for a night of unforgettable music and get ready to be transported on a musical journey unlike any other.

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Personnel: Stephen Philip Harvey, tenor sax; Thomas Schinabeck, alto sax; Tommy Lehman, trumpet; Reggie Watkins, trombone; Dan Bruce, guitar; Ben Tweedt, piano; Vinny Vivacqua, bass; Dustin May, drums

“Sophisticated accessibility! When I listen to Stephen Harvey’s music, that’s what hear. Thoughtful construction of complex structures and orchestrations that take the listener on a beautiful sonic ride without speaking over their heads. A beautiful pairing of the complex and the elementary.”

- Trumpeter/Composer/Bandleader/Educator Sean Jones

"Harvey’s arrangements emphasize riffs and melodies over improvisation, though he certainly leaves room for his crew to express themselves when called upon. But his focus on tunes keeps the songs effervescent and accessible”

- Michael Toland, The Big Takeover

"There's a fine indiscipline to Harvey's big band writing. Ominous horror-film riffs sit comfortably alongside soaring album-rock guitar solos, urgent, cop-show horn fanfares and creamy unison sax-section passages straight out of the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra's book. It's a fridge-raid omelette of sounds held together by the audaciousness of Harvey's conception and the joy with which his players bring it to life.”

- John Chacona, All About Jazz