Alex Harding & Lucian Ban - "DARK BLUE" Toronto Release Concert

Detroit-born baritone saxophonist Alex Harding and Transylvanian expat, New York City–based pianist Lucian Ban are longtime collaborators and leading voices in contemporary jazz. Over more than two decades, they have founded multiple projects together, released acclaimed recordings on American and European labels, and performed extensively across the U.S. and Europe. DARK BLUE (Sunnyside Records) is a celebration of their musical brotherhood—a duo exploration blending original compositions and improvisations shaped by jazz, blues, and European chamber music. From avant-blues and spontaneous improvisations to lyrical ballads and Sun Ra–inspired atmospheres (Harding is a frequent collaborator with the Arkestra), DARK BLUE captures two master musicians in deep, intuitive dialogue. As legendary tuba player Howard Johnson writes in the album’s liner notes: “Lucian and Alex have been honing their duo craft for some years. Now they have become one voice when they want to and still manage to complement each other.” Lucian Ban – Piano Alex Harding – Baritone Saxophone & Percussion Also Featuring Tributes to Pianists Ahmad Jamal (April 3) and Bill Evans (April 4) with Featured Guest Musicians: :: Mark Hundevad -- Drums and Vibes :: Sam Heineman -- Drums and Piano :: Jordana Talksy -- Voice and Vocals : Shawn Nykwist -- Saxophone :: James Thomson -- Bass Doors: 7:00 PM / Concert: 8:00 PM Early Bird Tickets: $30 (until March 15) / Advance Tickets: $40 / Door: $50 Both shows advance: $50 until March 15, $60 after March 15 Location: 918 Bathurst Centre for Culture, Arts, Media and Education