Adam brings his unique sound back to the North

Born and raised in Sault Ste. Marie, seven-string jazz guitarist Adam Smale cut his teeth performing mostly country in and around the Sault area before he even played a note of jazz. 

After living in Toronto for 20 years, Smale moved to Michigan for two years, earning a master's degree in jazz performance.

He then promptly hiked his way to New York City and has been immersing himself in New York's jazz scene for nearly seven years. 

Since living in New York, Smale has been signed to Ropeadope Records (Snarky Puppy, Martin Medeski & Wood), and released, Out of the Blue, a recording which has garnered attention on radio and with music critics around the world. 

Northern Ontario’s prodigal son makes his way to Sudbury on Feb. 10 for a performance here. Smale will be strutting his stuff in a trio setting he calls, TYRAMID. 

He returns to the Sault Feb. 12 for a performance at Algoma's Water Tower Inn. Earlier in the day, he'll do a masterclass with Algoma University jazz guitar students.

February 13, Smale is scheduled to perform at LopLops and hold a workshop at Case's Music.

The trio is one of Smale's favorite formats. 

“Jazz is the ultimate democracy,” Smale said.

“Each musician has equal say in the musical conversation, sparking creativity, egging each other on, building intensity, and creates an exciting experience for the listener.” 

Smale's’s music manages to be both respectful to jazz's illustrious past while pushing the boundaries of modern jazz into the 21st century by bringing influences from other styles of music often creating an intriguing and unique sound. 

While in town performing, the guitarist will also be here in a teaching capacity, conducting a master class for the jazz students at Laurentian University. 

The performance takes place at Oscar's Grill from 8 to 11 p.m. The Laurentian University jazz combo opens with a short set.

- NorthernLife.ca