New Jazz Underground

“It absolutely cooks here.” – NPR

American rising star collective New Jazz Underground merges traditional jazz with the modern influence of swing, hip-hop, house/afro-beat, and Afro-Cuban music. Millions of listeners were introduced to their undeniably fresh sound through viral videos, featuring the band’s exuberant chemistry, effortless musicality, and raw ambition. After meeting as students at The Juilliard School, core members Sebastian Rios (bassist/composer) and TJ Reddick (drummer) began playing in the parks of NYC during lock-down in 2020 and frequently collaborating with pianist Emmet Cohen. Releases such as MF Doom Suite, Harlem to Havana, and cook/swing/work/relax demonstrate their reverence towards jazz icons, yet establish their own voice and new sounds that transcend genres. Reddick and Rios have played as sidemen for Jon Batiste, Sullivan Fortner, and ELEW, among many more, and Rios is a long-time student of legendary bassist Ron Carter. NJU’s album Dying of Thirst just released in 2025. Dynamic and powerful performers, New Jazz Underground is re-energizing contemporary music from the inside out, blazing a path for young jazz musicians in the modern music landscape. Noah Halpern trumpet, Axel Tosca piano