This album pays tribute to the jazz legend who was both a world-class musician and a champion of the performing arts in his community. The musicians carrying out this task represent some of the finest talent in Canadian jazz, but perhaps more significantly comprise a group of individuals who were influenced greatly and personally by The Senator’s mentorship in what it means to be a musician and leader.

The Honourable Tommy Banks was known as a pianist, conductor, arranger, composer, TV personality, actor, producer and politician (1936-2018). Tommy had an unparalleled, multi-faceted career spanning more than 60 years in virtually every aspect of the entertainment industry in Canada. A professional jazz pianist at age 14, he went on to lead his own bands, conduct symphony orchestras around the world, direct musical ceremonies at international events, host his own long-running television show, and act in film and television. He also served nearly 12 years in the Canadian Senate.

Tommy was chair (1978–86) of the Alberta Foundation for the Performing Arts and chair (1983–87) of the music program at Grant MacEwan College, Edmonton. He was a member (1989–95) and a policy consultant (1996– 98) of the Canada Council, and the chairman of the Edmonton Concert Hall Foundation (1989–91). In 1999, Edmonton named a street Tommy Banks Way in his honour. In 2010, he received SOCAN’s special achievement award for his contributions to Canada’s music industry and musical heritage.

Supported by the CKUA radio foundation, this album pays tribute to Tommy’s legacy as an artist, but also to the important marks The Senator left on Alberta and Canada as a community leader, politician, and champion of the performing arts.

Hutchinson Andrew Trio: Chris Andrew – Piano Kodi Hutchinson – Bass Dave Laing – Drums

Special Guests: PJ Perry – Saxophone (3,5-7) Al Muirhead – Trumpet (3-7) Mallory Chipman – Vocals (2,4,5)

Hollow Trees was written specifically for the seven-piece configuration of the HAT and the Lily String Quartet. Its music features powerful, moving compositions by HAT pianist Chris Andrew that combine the beauty of classical chamber music with the drive and interplay of jazz. It’s music that rewards the committed listener. Shifting textures, melodies, rhythm and tonality reveal themselves constantly throughout each track, telling a story that is best experienced from beginning to end.

A distinct voice emanating from Western Canada, the Hutchinson Andrew Trio's third album 'Prairie Modern' consists of 13 original tracks that are a reflection of the vast array of musical and personal influences growing up in Canada's Prairie's. The album features 6 tracks with Grammy-nominated saxophonist Donny McCaslin and 3 tracks with Brazilian percussion star Rogerio Boccato. The music represents the harmony, beauty, energy and excitement of the modern Canadian West.

HAT's music can be categorized as contemporary acoustic jazz. They bring their unique Prairie perspective to music mixing elements such as contemporary swing, latin, oddmeter and acoustic groove. Kodi and Chris list artists such as Robert Glasper, Aaron Parks, and Brad Mehldau as some of their influences. Their music is representative of where they come from; reflecting the serenity and beauty of the Prairies and Rocky Mountains, alongside the excitement of the vibrant and growing young cities of the Canadian West.

Featuring one of Canada's top jazz exports; saxophonist Ralph Bowen, the Hutchinson Andrew Trio's sophomore album "Music Box" climbed the jazz charts across Canada, including CKUA, and the Universities of Ottawa, Victoria and Guelph. In the album's forward, Tommy Banks says "It is clear, in the comfort and fluidity of what they're doing here, that they are musically wise and creative beyond their respective years." The beautiful melodies, mixed with the improvisational skills expressed in this album, are a pleasure to listen to for both veteran and new jazz listeners.

The Hutchinson Andrew Trio's debut album is a very "accessible" jazz album and has garnered much acclaim, including a 2006 Western Canadian Music Award nomination for Best Jazz Recording. Produced by Aaron Young, Kodi Hutchinson and Chris Andrew, "Lost but not forgotten" is a landmark that will be enjoyed for years to come - defiantly not to be forgotten.