Mike Clement - Polka Dots and Ray Bans (2026) [Hi-Res]

I like to imagine that when I play guitar, the listener can not only feel, but may be touched by the deep inspiration and passion I am attempting to wield by laying it all on the table every time I perform.
For this project, I wanted to harness that power and create and share something genre-transcendent, in the way that I’ve learned “jazz” can be, from having the great fortune of existing as part of the vibrant New Orleans music community.

In order to accomplish this, I wrote a whole collection of inspired original compositions with contrasting vibes that are not only beboppin’, but echo the Great American Songbook while simultaneously calling upon tasteful elements of many genres—all of which serve as improvisational vehicles for myself and my band to hopefully reach that place of deep inspiration and passion (not to mention execution while the little red light is on).
Sometimes we’re swinging hard, or maybe we’re getting funky, and other times it’s sultry or smooth and sensual—just like you might hear on any given day at a club here in the Big Easy!

To perform this music, I put together a cast of some of the most soulful, virtuosic, and creative musicians and friends I’ve had the great pleasure of sharing the stage with, as well as having been blessed by so much inspiration from, here in New Orleans.

A little bit about the band:
Leroy Jones is not only a crucial figure in the lineage of New Orleans trumpet, as well as a virtuosic, unique player, but he’s also been an outstanding musical mentor to me. I’ve learned so much being in his band and performing at Preservation Hall every Sunday.

Miles Berry is a laser-focused, brilliant, up-and-coming tenor saxophonist who’s become an integral part of the New Orleans modern jazz scene. I’ve had the pleasure of working with him extensively on all types of projects, including his album Lost for You, which featured great local artists, including the legendary Nicholas Payton. It was a no-brainer to give him a nice feature on this record.

Connor Stewart I’ve known since he was a kid, and he has blossomed into an absolute monster alto saxophonist who oozes bebopping fun with every breath. I end up on a lot of random gigs out in the wild here with Connor, and I never get tired of hearing him play. A superb bandleader in his own right, Connor has released many great recordings, and I’ve been lucky to participate in a number of those.

Julian Lee, impressive résumé notwithstanding, is a standout and mature tenor saxophonist who emanates wisdom beyond his years through his deep, laid-back, and bluesy style. I always relish the opportunity to perform with someone so inspired, soulful, and musical.
Gerald Watkins Jr. is one of the hardest-swinging, most dynamic, and thoughtful drummers I’ve been lucky to play with. Every time I’m on a gig with Gerald, I’m so grateful, because not only do I admire his concept and commitment to the history of this music, but I’m always astounded by his ability to make everything sound and feel so good.

Tris Duncan is one bad dude. As the main organist I’ve gotten to call for my local gigs, we’ve played together a lot, and I deeply appreciate his fire and soulfulness. When we first started working together, we bonded over our reverence for certain organ trio records, such as Wonderful! by the Deep Blue Organ Trio. His commitment and contributions to this project have been immeasurable—from the espresso-fueled rehearsals he hosted to making it just in time for the recording session after an overnight flight with no sleep. (He still showed up and crushed it!)

Mike Clement - Guitar
Tris Duncan - Hammond B3 Organ
Gerald Watkins Jr. - Drums
Julian Lee - Tenor Saxophone track 2
Miles Berry - Tenor Saxophone track 5
Connor Stewart - Alto Saxophone track 8
Leroy Jones - Trumpet track 9