Huntertones

Biography

Huntertones is a dynamic American jazz-funk group known for their high-energy, horn-driven sound and genre-blending compositions. The band was formed in 2010 at Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, by saxophonist Dan White, trombonist Chris Ott, and trumpeter/sousaphone player Jon Lampley. Originally named the Dan White Sextet, the group began by performing house shows on Hunter Avenue, which later inspired their current name. Their early years were marked by a collaborative spirit and a deep engagement with jazz tradition, particularly through their experience playing the music of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers in college ensemble classes[2][3][4][9].

After relocating to Brooklyn, New York, in 2014, Huntertones expanded their lineup and musical horizons, embracing influences from funk, soul, hip hop, gospel, and rock. Their discography includes both studio and live albums, such as 'Passport' (2018), which reflects the impact of their international travels through the U.S. State Department’s American Music Abroad program. The band has performed in over 25 countries, sharing the stage with acclaimed artists and appearing at major festivals. Their music is celebrated for its technical virtuosity, infectious energy, and commitment to community, both within the band and with audiences worldwide[2][3][4][6].

Huntertones' legacy lies in their fearless approach to genre, their collaborative ethos, and their role as cultural ambassadors for American music. Their live performances are renowned for their celebratory atmosphere and ability to connect across language and cultural barriers. As individual members pursue successful careers in New York, including television and touring work, Huntertones continues to evolve, inspiring new generations of musicians with their innovative sound and dedication to musical excellence[3][4][6].

Fun Facts

• The band's name 'Huntertones' comes from Hunter Avenue in Columbus, Ohio, where they played their first house shows as college students[3][9].
• Jon Lampley, the band's trumpeter and sousaphonist, regularly performs with the house band on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert[3][4].
• Huntertones has performed in over 25 countries, including residencies in Zimbabwe and Togo that inspired original compositions[4][6].
• Members of Huntertones have played a funk festival in a Spanish bullring from 4 a.m. until sunrise, showcasing their global appeal and adventurous spirit[4].

Members

• Adam DeAscentis - bass

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers - Inspired by playing Blakey's repertoire in college ensemble classes, shaping their early jazz sensibilities (Art Blakey Combo performances at Ohio State University) [2010-2014]

Key Collaborators

• Dan White - Founding member, saxophonist, composer (All Huntertones and Dan White Sextet albums) [2010–present]
• Chris Ott - Founding member, trombonist, beatboxer (All Huntertones and Dan White Sextet albums) [2010–present]
• Jon Lampley - Founding member, trumpeter, sousaphonist (All Huntertones albums, performances with O.A.R. and The Late Show with Stephen Colbert) [2010–present]
• Joshua Hill - Electric guitarist, contributed to 'Passport' and other recordings ('Passport' (2018)) [2018–present]
• Adam DeAscentis - Electric bassist, current band member (Recent Huntertones albums) [2018–present]
• John Hubbell - Drummer, current band member (Recent Huntertones albums) [2018–present]
• Justin Stanton - Guest keyboardist (Snarky Puppy) ('Passport' (2018)) [2018]
• Keita Ogawa - Guest percussionist ('Passport' (2018)) [2018]
• Kurt Elling and Charlie Hunter (SuperBlue) - Huntertones horn section featured in SuperBlue group (Live performances, Newport Jazz Festival) [2023–present]

Artists Influenced

• Emerging jazz-funk musicians - Inspired by Huntertones' genre-blending approach and collaborative ethos (Cited by student ensembles and young bands) [2018–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Wonder Boy - Audiotree Live Version (Huntertones on Audiotree Live)
2. For Roy 2.0 (For Roy 2.0)
3. Sad Songs (feat. Allen Stone, Clyde Lawrence, Huntertones) (Sad Songs)
4. Wichita Lineman (Wichita Lineman)
5. Silent Night (A Joyful Noise, Pt. 2)
6. For Roy (For Roy)
7. You Gotta Be (You Gotta Be)
8. Sharp Dressed Man (SuperBlue: Guilty Pleasures Vol.2)
9. Goin’ to Chicago (Goin’ to Chicago)
10. Turn To Stone

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia
• MusicBrainz

Tags: #jazz