Thomas Taylor - The Seeker (Live) (2018)

This album is a recorded document of two magical nights of playing jazz, “American Classical Music” to his hometown of Elizabeth City, NC on March 15 & 16, 2018. Thomas wanted to bring the “life force” of a Big City Night Club to a small town. He did this by bringing some of the country’s best and brightest emerging young musicians to perform to his hometown. Brandon Lee on Trumpet, Annalise Stalls on Saxophones, Charles "Chuckey" Robinson on Piano, William Ledbetter round out the core quintet while a few guest artists complete the band. Dennis Figgs on Piano, Prometheus Jenkins on Tenor Saxophone, Jacinta Dillard on Vocals, and Tymain Robbins is the MC.

This recording successfully captures the essence of the live concert experience. Every song within the album is asking you to Seek more than a superficial musical experience. He depicted a deeper musical, spiritual, and emotional connection to a higher power. The audience members are still relishing the concert and the energy brought to the town over the two days.

This recording showcases Thomas’ composition and arranging abilities. All original compositions possess the love, and history of his hometown and home state. Thomas quotes- “This part of the country has a unique pace, smell, view, and energy when you are there. Eastern North Carolina will always have a special place for me. As the saying goes, “You can take the man out of the country, but you can’t take the “country” out of the man”.

Thomas is a constantly evolving student of all music but is transfixed by jazz and the drumming forefathers who blazed the path for everyone to follow. Paying close attention to the songs might allow you to hear a little Art Blakey, or Max Roach, or Dennis Chambers. Thomas’ commitment to supporting the music, melody, and making everything swing has molded his own musical and percussive voice.