The James Raymond Trio

Join us at Unit B for an unforgettable evening with the James Raymond Trio , featuring acclaimed pianist James Raymond , bassist Jon Gagan , and drummer Arnaldo Acosta . Blending the rhythmic energy of Latin jazz with fresh, imaginative interpretations of modern pop and rock favorites, the trio creates a sound that is both sophisticated and accessible. Expect inventive arrangements, inspired improvisation, and dynamic interplay as they transform familiar songs into vibrant new musical experiences while showcasing the artistry of contemporary jazz. James Raymond As an adopted child, James’ Raymond’s parents were keen to pick up on his musical gift early on. He began studying piano at the age of six and by his early teens, he was performing with R&B, rock, and jazz bands. In 1995, James learned what to attribute some of his talent to when he learned that his birth father was two-time rock and roll hall of famer, David Crosby.  The two went on to form a 30-year collaboration, first with the group CPR, then years of touring with Crosby, Stills & Nash, writing and recording for Crosby-Nash. James then went on to co-write and produce Crosby’s last three critically acclaimed solo albums. The most recent release, For Free , features co-writing with two of James’ lifelong musical heroes — Michael McDonald and Donald Fagan. After the passing of Crosby in January of 2023, James was inspired to begin a solo record as a tribute to David's love of the pairing of piano and acoustic guitar. It has since become a sweeping instrumental project featuring some of James and David’s favorite musicians. James decamped from Los Angeles to Santa Fe, New Mexico, in 2023 and has immensely enjoyed joining the music scene there, collaborating with local musicians Jono Manson, Jon Gagan, Robbie Rothschild, KT Tunstall and others, as well as working with National Dance Institute-NM. Arnaldo Acosta Arnaldo Acosta is a Drummer & Percussionist based in Albuquerque NM. The Domincan-native is one of the region's most versatile and in-demand creators of rhythm having performed with Sparx, Lorenzo Antonio, Cafe Mocha, Doug Lawrence, Frank Leto, and Cafe Mocha, among others. He has also toured with international stars such as Guitarist Al Di Meola, Pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba, and Bassist Mark Egan (formerly of the Pat Metheny Group). Jon Gagan Known for his 30+ year association with renowned guitarist Ottmar Liebert, playing bass on over 30 Liebert albums, including RIAA certified gold and platinum and Grammy-nominated titles. Jon has also written numerous string and horn arrangements and scored a full-length string orchestra concert for Liebert.Gagan has performed with Milt Jackson, Eddie Harris, Dave Grusin, Christopher Cross, Big Al Anderson, Nat Adderley, Emily Remler and Warren Vaché, among many others. A prolific composer, Jon has also released a series of solo albums on Liebert's SSRI label, Transit 1-3.Among other side projects are "What The What" (2015) "Electric" (2018), and Still Life (2024). Recent recording work includes bass tracks featured on "Santa Fe Style" by Spanish virtuoso guitarist/singer Juan Jose Alba and "Alone" by the sister duo Carly and Martina. Dinner and cocktails starting at 5:30 pm. Showtime is 7:00 pm. Reservations highly recommended.