Hutchinson Andrew Trio

Like the vast prairie landscape that inspires it, the uniquely western Canadian jazz of the Hutchinson Andrew Trio unfolds to reveal rich textures, beauty, power and drama. Open yourself to it, and you’ll be rewarded. 
  
Formed in 2005 by bassist Kodi Hutchinson and pianist-composer Chris Andrew, the trio — which includes drummer Dave Laing — is a prominent force on the Canadian and North American jazz scene, earning numerous Western Canadian Music Award nominations and winning the prestigious TD Grand Jazz Award at the 34th Annual Montreal International Jazz Festival
  
The Senator (2023), their latest album, serves as a tribute to the late Honourable Tommy Banks, a towering figure in Canadian jazz and the performing arts community. Tommy Banks, whose illustrious career spanned over six decades, was not only a world-class musician but also a conductor, arranger, composer, TV personality, actor, producer, and politician. He made significant contributions to various facets of the entertainment industry in Canada and served as a member of the Canadian Senate for nearly twelve years.

Supported by the CKUA radio foundation, the album serves as a tribute to Banks's legacy, showcasing his influence not only as a musician but also as a community leader and politician.

Featuring esteemed artists like trumpeter Al Muirhead, saxophonist PJ Perry, and standout vocalist Mallory Chipman (Banks's granddaughter), "The Senator" represents a collaboration of top-tier talent. With a blend of swinging group dynamics and standout solos, the album demonstrates the ensemble's versatility and musical prowess.

Released globally on Chronograph Records in late 2023, "The Senator" is not just an album; it's a testament to the enduring impact of Tommy Banks and a celebration of Canadian jazz heritage.

The Hutchinson Andrew Trio's journey through their albums showcases a remarkable progression and artistic maturation, solidifying their status as a leading force in Canadian jazz.

Their earlier albums, Lost But Not Forgotten (2005) and Music Box (2008), undoubtedly laid the foundation for their success, introducing audiences to their distinctive sound and virtuosic performances. However, it was with their third release, Prairie Modern (2013), that they truly came into their own. Praised by Down Beat magazine for its exceptional quality, the album not only showcased the trio's outstanding musicianship but also demonstrated their unique musical vision. The collaboration with Donny McCaslin (David Bowie / Maria Schneider) added another layer of depth and complexity to their sound, further elevating their artistic expression.

With Hollow Trees (2017), the trio continued to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories. The infusion of classical elements through the collaboration with the Lily String Quartet showcased their willingness to experiment and innovate while maintaining the essence of their jazz roots. This album further solidified their reputation as innovators in the genre and garnered them continued recognition, including four nominations for Western Canadian Awards.

Overall, the Hutchinson Andrew Trio's consistent evolution and commitment to pushing artistic boundaries have cemented their status as a formidable presence in the jazz scene. Their journey from their early releases to their latest works is a testament to their creativity, versatility, and enduring impact on Canadian jazz music.

  • Chris Andrew, from Edmonton is a cornerstone of Alberta's music scene. Renowned for his versatility, he is the Section Head for Piano at Grant MacEwan University, where he shapes the next generation of musical talent. With accolades including a CBC Galaxie Rising Star Award, Chris continues to captivate audiences with his virtuosic talent and unwavering passion for music.
  • Kodi Hutchinson, hailed as one of Western Canada’s most versatile and sought-after musicians, brings a dynamic presence to the double bass, seamlessly intertwining with Dave Laing's athletic percussion and complementing Andrew’s nimble piano in HAT. Anchored in Calgary, AB, he also serves as a bass instructor at the newly minted University of Calgary's jazz program.
  • Dave Laing, hailing from a musical family in Ontario, Canada, honed his craft at McGill University. Rising through the ranks of the music scene, he made his mark in Montreal and Toronto, collaborating with jazz legends and local luminaries alike. Now, as Assistant Professor of Music and Section Head of Drums & Percussion at MacEwan University in Edmonton, Alberta, he continues to inspire the next generation of musicians while maintaining a prolific performance career that spans the globe.

What people are saying: 

Included as part of renowned jazz reviewer Peter Hum’s list of top Canadian Jazz Albums of 2023. Named one of the top Jazz Tribute albums of 2023!

“The quintet is very tight and very musical varying their approach between swinging group play and excellent soloing. This traditional jazz [album] sparkles with great touches. This is a joyous and upbeat [album] all in tribute to Tommy Banks." Ed Sapiega – Jazz Views

“The Senator is a delightful undertaking that pays tribute to Banks’ music legacy and reminds us of this important musician. It was recorded live over two nights at the Yardbird Suite in Edmonton, on what would have been Banks’ 85th birthday, and that adds to the sense of celebration.” Ted Parkinson – The Whole Note

4 of 5 Stars for Hollow Trees "Borderlines between the trio and the quartet often fade completely in a genre-crossing dynamic that pushes and pulls the listener with an elegant range of moods, from prairie pastorale to more exotic wind-swept musical horizons." Roger Levesque - Edmonton Journal 

"Prairie Modern is a terrific listen, with great musicianship throughout…The Hutchinson Andrew Trio offers a distinct musical vision from one of the many great music scenes in Canada.”  Frank Alkyer – Downbeat Magazine 

"[Prairie Modern] transfixes. Surpassing beauty. Absolutely absorbing. Makes me sit still and just listen."  Lark Clark, Host – Ballads & Blue Notes – CKUA Radio 

"...they're riding the leading edge of Canadian jazz ensembles, and on par with the best from around the world in playing chops, tight intuitive ensemble and memorable tunes."  Lyle Rebbeck - Medicine Hat Jazz Festival 

"The Hutchinson Andrew Trio [engages] in a freewheeling, expansive, and spirited musical dialogue. Their latest document, Prairie Modern, raises the stakes considerably and the results richly reward those who take the time to eavesdrop." David Ward, Former Producer – Tonic - CBC Radio 1 

"Thought provoking and evocative, Hutchinson Andrew Trio's latest [Prairie Modern] grips and doesn't let go."  Pierre-Jean Lavigne – Galaxie Digital Radio, Producer – Jazz Stations 

"As cohesive a unit as you'll find on Prairie Modern. A remarkable journey through a very thoughtful all original set of music. Congrats on a stellar release!" Cory Weeds - Cellar Café & Cellar Live Records 

"This is jazz that evokes wide-open spaces and a gentle but vital energy, created with a smart, contemporary approach... Prairie Modern is a transcendent tribute to one's origins from exceptional players."  Roger Levesque - Edmonton Journal 

"There has been lots of hum after your show…all positive. I think my favorite story so far is about a gentleman who said he wasn’t [initially] a jazz fan but bought your CD because he thought you guys are 'rising stars'. You were the highlight of our season." 
Dianne Irvine – Presenter - Sundre Arts Centre, AB