TuneTown

An enterprising saxophone-bass-drums ensemble from Toronto known as TuneTown blends post-bop, funk, and avant-garde jazz elements in their performances of both original compositions and inventive interpretations of classic tunes. Their initial recognition came through energetic live shows, preceding the 2019 launch of their first album, There from Here.

The group came together in 2015 and showcases the skills of three acclaimed, Juno-nominated musicians residing in Toronto: Kelly Jefferson on tenor saxophone, Artie Roth on bass, and Ernesto Cervini on drums. Beyond their collaborative efforts, each member has established a strong presence within the global jazz community. Jefferson earned degrees from McGill University in Montreal and the Manhattan School of Music in New York, after which he collaborated with artists including Brian Blade, Phil Woods, Joey DeFrancesco, and the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra. Roth, having studied at York University in Toronto, frequently directs his own ensembles while also contributing to the Rich Underhill Group and the Bob Brough Quartet. Cervini has produced solo recordings and participated in Myriad3, earning praise for his drumming style reminiscent of Art Blakey and Billy Higgins. The year 2019 saw the issuance of TuneTown's inaugural full-length record, There from Here.