The Phil Hey Quartet was originally assembled around the year 2000
when Artists' Quarter owner (and fellow drummer) Kenny Horst
suggested to Hey that four favorite jazz veterans perform a "one off"
gig. Needing to print the AQ's monthly calendar, Horst listed the
band as the Phil Hey Quartet. Finding that they shared a chemistry
and love for the hard bop material, the PHQ dug in with monthly AQ
gigs and regular rehearsals to hone their unique sound. Performing
a songbook usually driven by a horn player, the PHQ features piano
(Phil Aaron) and vibes (Dave Hagedorn) on the lead lines with the equally
expressive rhythm section of Tom Lewis (bass) and Phil Hey
(drums). Whether by virtue of the band's "assigned" name or
otherwise, Hey took on the role of leader. Phil is quick to point
out, however, that "this is a real band. Everyone in the group is
a band leader in his own right and we have really come together as
an ensemble."
The Phil Hey Quartet (PHQ) released their new CD Subduction:
Live at the Artists' Quarter with shows on October 14 and 15, 2005
at the Artists' Quarter. The CD was recorded live in May 2005 at
the AQ, and features hard-bop jazz instrumentals from a wealth of
sources including Charles Mingus, Ornette Coleman, Irving Berlin
and Phil Hey's original "Subduction." No all star excursion, the
PHQ is a true, seasoned ensemble that has been exploring a common
musical vision for the past five years. With appearances on over 60 recordings and
countless live performances with the top names in jazz, Phil Hey
is no stranger to Twin Cities music fans. Subduction marks the
first release for Phil Hey as band leader.
The Artists' Quarter is
located at 7th Place and St. Peter St. in the Historic Hamm
Building in Downtown St. Paul, telephone (651) 292-1359, website at www.artistsquarter.com.
Click on the "Play" button to
hear Subduction by the Phil Hey Quartet,
from the album Subduction:
Live at the Artists' Quarter.
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