Eddie Allen, PUSH, Steve Turre

Biography

Eddie Allen, a versatile New York-based trumpeter, composer, arranger, and author, began his musical education studying music, theory, and arranging at the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music in Milwaukee and the University of Wisconsin in Green Bay. He later moved to the East Coast and earned a Bachelor of Music degree from William Paterson University in New Jersey, honing his skills before establishing himself on the New York jazz scene[5][6][7]. Known for his signature tone blending Lee Morgan's fiery intensity with soulful exploration, Allen has become a sought-after sideman, performing and recording with jazz luminaries including Art Blakey, Dizzy Gillespie, Randy Weston, Joe Henderson, and Steve Turre[1][5][6][7].

Allen's career as a leader centers on his ensemble PUSH, delivering vibrant, rhythm-driven modern jazz rooted in post-bop with fusion openness, Latin grooves, reggae pulses, and urban textures. His ninth album as PUSH leader, The Rhythm (released 2024 on Origin Records), features originals like the African-flavored title track in 6/8 time, showcasing his arranging prowess with bandmates Jonathan Beshay (tenor sax), Misha Tsiganov (keyboards), Tyler Bullock II (piano), Kenny Davis (bass), EJ Strickland (drums), and special guest Steve Turre on trombone[1][2]. Critics praise PUSH's swinging, upbeat energy and Allen's commanding improvisation[1].

Allen's legacy lies in his adaptability across big bands, small groups, and diverse styles, contributing to New York's jazz ecosystem as an exploratory improviser with a warm tone. He continues to compose and lead PUSH, pushing rhythmic boundaries while honoring jazz traditions[1][8].

Fun Facts

• Eddie Allen's tone is often described as a mix of Lee Morgan's fire and soulful exploration, drawing listeners into his 'crackle'-filled compositions[1].
• PUSH's The Rhythm was recorded at Sound On Sound Studios in Montclair, NJ, on November 6-7, 2023, featuring 13 tracks including 10 Allen originals with rhythms blending African flair, Latin grooves, and urban textures[1].
• Allen has composed for artists like Louis Hayes, Lester Bowie, Jack McDuff, Etta Jones, and Houston Person, expanding beyond performance[7].
• His ninth PUSH album emphasizes rhythm as a 'unifying force' transcending genre, age, and background[1].

Musical Connections

Key Collaborators

• Art Blakey - sideman with Jazz Messengers (various performances and recordings) [1980s]
• Dizzy Gillespie - sideman in ensembles (live performances) [post-NY arrival]
• Randy Weston - sideman (recordings and tours) [post-NY arrival]
• Joe Henderson - sideman (various projects) [post-NY arrival]
• Steve Turre - frequent collaborator and special guest (PUSH's The Rhythm (2024), other NY scene work) [ongoing]
• Jonathan Beshay - PUSH band member (The Rhythm (2024)) [2023-2024]
• Misha Tsiganov - PUSH band member (The Rhythm (2024)) [2023-2024]
• Tyler Bullock II - PUSH band member (The Rhythm (2024)) [2023-2024]
• Kenny Davis - PUSH band member (The Rhythm (2024)) [2023-2024]
• EJ Strickland - PUSH band member (The Rhythm (2024)) [2023-2024]

External Links

• Spotify