Thomas Morgan: A Celebrated Jazz Bassist
Thomas Morgan, born on August 14, 1981, in Hayward, California, is a highly regarded American jazz bassist. He is celebrated for his sensitive musicality, unique approach to the double bass, and broad collaborative work. Morgan's artistic depth and musical brilliance have been showcased in several oeuvres over the years, making him a sought-after presence in contemporary jazz.
Notable Works and Collaborations
One of Morgan's standout performances is "Once Around the Room: A Tribute to Paul Motian." This piece, primarily credited to Joe Lovano and Jakob Bro with Morgan as a featured member, showcases his knack for storytelling through music. Another notable work is the live rendition of "Epistrophy" at The Village Vanguard, New York, in 2016. This performance, featuring Bill Frisell and Thomas Morgan, is a testament to Morgan's extraordinary improvisational skills.
"Bay Of Rainbows," recorded live at The Jazz Standard in New York in 2017, resonates with fervent energy and raw emotion. This album is officially credited to Jakob Bro, with Thomas Morgan and Joey Baron as the trio ensemble. Another highlight, "Returnings," showcases Morgan's collaboration with Jakob Bro and Jon Christensen, creating a harmonious fusion of their distinct musical personas.
In the alluring soundscape of "Small Town," Morgan teams up with Bill Frisell to create a poignant piece that strikes a chord with every listener. The trio of Jakob Bro, Thomas Morgan, and Joey Baron resonate harmony and synergy in "Streams," their collective effort that turns into a captivating sonic exploration. "Gefion" features a rich collaboration between Morgan, Bro, and Christensen, integrating textured melodious rhythm with elegant spontaneity.
Artistic Approach and Legacy
Morgan is acclaimed for his improvisational depth and subtle interplay, making his presence transformative in both live and recorded settings. He is a regular collaborator with leading jazz artists such as Bill Frisell, Jakob Bro, Joey Baron, and Joe Lovano, among others. Morgan’s partnership with Bill Frisell is notably featured on the ECM album "Small Town," recorded live at the Village Vanguard.
Explore these fascinating works by Thomas Morgan on STAGE+ and experience his musical genius firsthand. Immerse yourself in the riveting performances, dynamic collaborations, and the unerring artistry of this remarkable bassist.