REX RICHARDSON, SEAN JONES, DAVE BALLOU

KEYSTONE TRUMPET PROJECT LIVE AT THE KEYSTONE KORNER

Summit Records

Rex Richardson, trumpet/composer; Sean Jones, trumpet; Dave Ballou, trumpet/composer; Richard Johnson, piano; Blake Meister, bass; Eric Kennedy, drums.

This album had its origins in 2023, when Sean Jones and Rex Richardson performed together in Western Michigan.  Each trumpeter walked away with an idea of teaming up again in the future.

Rex knew that Sean Jones (a Detroiter who had relocated to Baltimore, MD) was in the same city where a good friend of his lived. Horn player, Dave Ballou, also a resident of Baltimore, joined their dream team after the three trumpeters all expressed interest in performing together.

Soon after, they reached out to Todd Barkan, veteran impresario and owner of the Keystone Korner Baltimore (originally from the Keystone Korner San Francisco). Barkan was interested!  They set up a date to perform at his club in June of 2024 where this dream project came alive. A year later, they returned to perform and record an album.

They open with the Rex Richardson composition, “Seize Every Day.”  It enters as a slow swing with a catchy melody.  Each trumpeter takes an opportunity to solo and each introduces their individual tone and talent.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9rJphML5H4&list=RDT9rJphML5H4&start_radio=1

Dave Ballou has written track #2 titled “Old School.” The introduction by pianist Richard Johnson and bassist Blake Meister sets the tone for this slow bluesy tune.  The harmonics of the three trumpets is lovely and nostalgic. Something about this arrangement reminds me of the 1930s, Minnie the Moocher days.

They cover the Hank Mobley tune, “Up, Over, and Out” that picks up the tempo and strongly swings across my listening room. The trumpet solos are dynamic and full of excitement and passion.  I didn’t feel that so much from the rhythm section, with the exception of Eric Kennedy’s flamboyant drums that inspired each soloist. During this high energy presentation, Blake Meister was brightly featured on bass.

Richardson’s tune “Peanuts N’ Ice Cream” is a delicious slow swing tune. This quickly becomes one of my favorite tunes on this album.  Richard Johnson offers an impressive piano solo during this arrangement, as does drummer, Eric Kennedy.

This is a fresh, exciting approach to spotlighting three extraordinary trumpeters. They fit together like ice cream and cake; cool, sweet and delightfully celebratory.

Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil

BUY NOW

Buy Us a Cup of Coffee!

Join the movement in supporting Making a Scene, the premier independent resource for both emerging musicians and the dedicated fans who champion them.

We showcase this vibrant community that celebrates the raw talent and creative spirit driving the music industry forward. From insightful articles and in-depth interviews to exclusive content and insider tips, Making a Scene empowers artists to thrive and fans to discover their next favorite sound.

Together, let’s amplify the voices of independent musicians and forge unforgettable connections through the power of music

You can donate directly through Paypal!

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Order the New Book From Making a Scene

Breaking Chains – Navigating the Decentralized Music Industry

Breaking Chains is a groundbreaking guide for independent musicians ready to take control of their careers in the rapidly evolving world of decentralized music. From blockchain-powered royalties to NFTs, DAOs, and smart contracts, this book breaks down complex Web3 concepts into practical strategies that help artists earn more, connect directly with fans, and retain creative freedom. With real-world examples, platform recommendations, and step-by-step guidance, it empowers musicians to bypass traditional gatekeepers and build sustainable careers on their own terms.

More than just a tech manual, Breaking Chains explores the bigger picture—how decentralization can rebuild the music industry’s middle class, strengthen local economies, and transform fans into stakeholders in an artist’s journey. Whether you’re an emerging musician, a veteran indie artist, or a curious fan of the next music revolution, this book is your roadmap to the future of fair, transparent, and community-driven music.

Get your Limited Edition Signed and Numbered (Only 50 copies Available)  Free Shipping Included