Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio

Carrying on the infectious deep-pocket R&B of Booker T. and the greasy, funky, soul-jazz organ tradition of Charles Earland and Jimmy McGriff, Seattle-based organ king Delvon Lamarr brings his whip-crack trio for an evening of dance-inspiring party jams. Beginning his musical life as a drummer, Lamarr was inspired to pick up the Hammond at age 22 by the legends of the instrument and Seattle icon Joe Doria. The organist decided on the classic trio format, bringing together the explosive guitarist Jimmy James and drummer David McGraw, and their chemistry was undeniable. They began a weekly residency at Seattle’s Royal Room that tightened their sound, and self-produced their debut album, Close But No Cigar, before setting out as a tireless touring unit, circling the Pacific Northwest and beyond. After signing with a major touring agent and inking a deal with Colemine Records, Lamarr recruited hard-driving drummer Michael Duffy and the band’s profile has exploded, leading to headlining dates and clubs and festivals around the world.

Opening the show is the rising young keyboard virtuoso Matthew Whitaker, performing music from his new album Now Hear This. In their review, DownBeat said, “with plenty of buzz already behind him, 18-year-old Matthew Whitaker lives up to expectations on Now Hear This.”