Hudson

Biography

Hudson is a jazz supergroup formed by four of the most acclaimed musicians in contemporary jazz: drummer Jack DeJohnette, bassist Larry Grenadier, keyboardist John Medeski, and guitarist John Scofield. The group takes its name and inspiration from the Hudson River Valley in New York, where all four members reside. Their collaboration was sparked at the Woodstock Jazz Festival in 2014, where their immediate chemistry led to the formation of the band. Each member brings decades of experience and a distinctive voice to the ensemble, resulting in a dynamic blend of jazz, rock, soul, and improvisational music.

The group released their self-titled debut album, 'Hudson,' in 2017, featuring original compositions and reinterpretations of classics by artists such as Bob Dylan, The Band, Joni Mitchell, and Jimi Hendrix. Their music reflects both the rich musical heritage of the Hudson Valley and the universal character of jazz, marked by adventurous improvisation and deep grooves. Hudson is celebrated for its egalitarian spirit, with each member contributing equally to the group's creative direction, and for its ability to make familiar material feel fresh and vital through collective interplay.

Individually, DeJohnette, Grenadier, Medeski, and Scofield have shaped the landscape of modern jazz through their work with a wide array of legendary artists and bands. Together, Hudson stands as a testament to the collaborative and boundary-pushing ethos of jazz, earning critical acclaim for their innovative approach and virtuosic musicianship.

Fun Facts

• All four members of Hudson live in or near the Hudson Valley, which directly inspired the group's name and musical concept.
• The group first played together at the Woodstock Jazz Festival in 2014, and their chemistry was so strong they decided to form a band.
• Jack DeJohnette turned 75 the year Hudson's debut album was released, marking a milestone in his storied career.
• Hudson's repertoire includes creative reinterpretations of songs by Bob Dylan, The Band, Joni Mitchell, and Jimi Hendrix, reflecting the region's musical legacy.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Paul Butterfield Blues Band - DeJohnette was drawn to the Hudson Valley in the early 1970s by members of this band, influencing his move and musical direction. (DeJohnette's early solo work and collaborations in the Valley) [1970s]

Key Collaborators

• Herbie Hancock - DeJohnette and Scofield played together in Hancock's New Standards ensemble. (New Standards ensemble performances) [1990s]
• Medeski Martin & Wood - Scofield has recorded four albums with Medeski's trio, blending jazz and jam band styles. (Out Louder, Juice, MSMW Live, In Case the World Changes Its Mind) [2000s–2010s]
• Trio Beyond - DeJohnette and Scofield co-led this group, further cementing their collaborative relationship. (Saudades) [2000s]

Artists Influenced

• Younger jazz improvisers and jam band musicians - Hudson's members, through their individual and collective work, have inspired a new generation of genre-blending jazz artists. (Contemporary jazz and jam band recordings influenced by Hudson's approach) [2010s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. So Tender (Standards, Vol. 2)
2. Guess I'll Hang Out My Tears To Dry (My Foolish Heart)
3. One For Majid - Live (After The Fall (Live))
4. Sleepin' Bee - Live (Yesterdays)
5. Opening Day (Blue Maqams)
6. Timeless (Timeless)
7. You've Changed - Live (Yesterdays)
8. All The Things You Are (Setting Standards - The New York Sessions)
9. My Foolish Heart (My Foolish Heart)
10. Blue Maqams (Blue Maqams)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia