To Know Leon Jordan Jr. is to appreciate great depth in creativity and pursuit mastery of the trumpet. His latest recording effort reflects a vast array of styles that exceed the boundaries of traditional and contemporary jazz. This assembled a cast of amazing musicians to tell the story that is the brainchild of Leon’s wonderfully innovative mind. Following the release of the self titled Debut CD,” Leon Jordan Jr. “in 2005, Leon is in a drastically different place in his life. Since graduating from University of the Arts in June 2009, Leon has been steadily composing, recording and touring with Music Soul Child, Kindrid, the family soul, performances with “The Roots” of the Jimmy Fallon Show on NBC, John Ledgend and 2010 Masa Tour. And diligently promoting his current release, “ Breakout” , September, 2009.
The Philadelphia experience continues to profoundly influence the current direction of Leon Jordan’s music. His latest Endeavour is immediately more urban and in your face than previous recordings, reflecting a conflicting world view. It’s sophisticated and down and dirty. It’s pure raw, and unapologetic, yet refined and thoughtful. The pure genius of “little brother” and drummer, Jovon Jordan probably best understands Leon as a composer and clearly demonstrates the textures and dynamics needed to bring these songs to life. If there were a perfect feel or groove to be found, Gerald Veasley would own it. He’s amazing on this record. Being on stage or even in the same room with saxophonist Greg Riley is to experience a master at work. He quietly goes about his business very matter of fact. Greg is methodic and unassuming until the notes begin to flow from the bell of his sax. He seems to never run out of brilliant ideas. Mike Boone swings as hard as anyone on the planet and his contribution to this record is immeasurable. The natural chemistry that exists between Joshua Richman and Leon could never be manufactured or duplicated. He is an outstanding pianist and greatly underrated gift to the world. Kirt Rosenwinkle has a style and sound that is so uniquely identifiable, that he was the perfect choice for this project. A chance meeting that proved to be destiny and changed the course of the record. Luke O’riley, simply said, pure heart and soul.
Leon Jordan Jr. began playing trumpet by chance at the age of ten in elementary school. By high school Leon was performing professionally and received praise from prominent musicians and media. He was awarded top honors all through high school, receiving more than fifty trophies and medals for section awards, solo awards, state and regional competitions and was awarded the prestigious Marian Anderson award in 2004. Awarded a full scholarship to the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, and graduated in June 2009. Leon’s extensive experience at such a young age and rare talent has afforded him the opportunity to share the stage with such luminaries as Clark Terry, Grover Washington Jr. John Blake, Kenny Garrett, Nicholas Payton, Benny Golson, Charles Fambrough, Terell Stafford, Marcus Bellgrave, Tim Warfield, Gerald Veasley, Bootsie Barnes and drumming legend George “Butch” Ballard just to name a few. Most recent recordings and performances with “The Roots” of the Jimmy Fallon Show on NBC, John Ledgend and 2010 Masa Tour.
Leon’s quintet has performed at the 2007 Berks Jazz Festival, the 2006 Clifford Brown Jazz Festival, at the Cape May Jazz Festival. Leon was a featured performer at the Duke Ellington Sacred Concert as part of the Clifford Brown Festival. His quintet also performs regularly in the Philadelphia region and beyond. Leon’s versatility is also demonstrated in his work as a staple in the Orrin Evans Big Band as well as the Renaissance Orchestra. At the age of twenty- two, Leon Jordan Jr., with more than two dozen published compositions to his credit, continues to be one of the most sought after trumpeters and composers. His brilliant sound and virtuosity continue to propel him to new heights.
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