Jon McBride’s Big Easy traverses the roots of funk music–early jazz, blues, gospel, and Caribbean styles–playing songs that have entertained audiences for generations. Their skillful musicianship is rooted in jazz and blues traditions but draws on varied experience and eclectic taste, yielding a unique and modern approach to these storied melodies. Captivating group interaction and melodic improvisation leave listeners and dancers of all ages hungry for more. Laissez les bons temps rouler!

The core quartet showcases deep musical connections. Jon and pianist Ted Perry have been friends and collaborators since they were teenagers. Ted's warm, soulful touch and emphasis on lyrical melodies bring a unique storytelling element to the band's sound. Jon met drummer (and multi-instrumentalist) Dwight Ritcher soon after they both moved to Vermont. Their friendship and shared musical vision have grown, playing together in Burlington’s vibrant music scene. Dwight’s jubilant and adventurous musical personality fuels the interplay and dynamics that bring this music to life. Bassist J.D. Haenni showed up at a Big Easy Tuesday saying he’d just moved from New Orleans and asking if he could sit in. His vast experience and deep pocket instantly cemented him as the perfect anchor for the band’s musical vision.

The sound of this core-tet expands seamlessly with some of Vermont’s most accomplished vocalists and instrumentalists–many of whom regularly stop by The 126 on Tuesday nights to soak in some Big Easy and join the fun. Jon McBride’s Big Easy excites fans across many genres–bringing raw talent and irresistible swing to contemporary roots music.