In 2019, when young jazz musicians are both better-trained and more open-minded than they’ve ever been, plenty of small groups are doing inspired work by melding disparate influences. But Magnificent Madness, the new Ropeadope Sur release from the Adam Meckler Orchestra, is something different, something greater: a thrillingly contemporary update of the jazz big band that both embodies Meckler’s musical generation and showcases his singular vision (not to mention his masterfully expressive trumpet playing). Fun yet moving, hard-grooving yet also poignant, Magnificent Madness highlights the working musicians on the thriving Twin Cities scene while featuring special guests like the multi-instrumentalist and singer/emcee Harjinder; J.D. Steele, part of the Minnesota-based royal vocal family the Steeles; the emcee and Berklee educator Toki Wright; the nonpareil trumpet soloist Rex Richardson; and Cameron Kinghorn, the lead vocalist in the rising neo-soul band Nooky Jones, which he cofounded with Meckler and drummer Reid Kennedy. In the end, Meckler’s concept invites new listeners into the big-band tradition as he redefines that legacy on his own terms. 

A trumpet player, composer, and educator living in Upper Peninsula Michigan where he is the Director of Jazz Studies at Michigan Technological University, Meckler is an Edwards Instrument Co. Performing Artist and Clinician. He leads The Adam Meckler Orchestra (AMO), an 18 piece big band that plays his original compositions. The AMO's debut album 'When the Clouds Look Like This' was listed among 2014's Best Jazz Releases by iTunes. Adam tours and records with The Hornheads (Prince), Youngblood Brass Band, and Nooky Jones. His latest release with The Adam Meckler Orchestra, Magnificent Madness, is available via Ropeadope Records, and on all streaming platforms now.