Nolatet

Biography

Nolatet is a New Orleans-based jazz quartet formed by four acclaimed musicians: vibraphonist Mike Dillon, pianist Brian Haas, bassist James Singleton, and drummer Johnny Vidacovich. The group’s roots run deep in the Crescent City’s musical tradition, with Singleton and Vidacovich having anchored New Orleans’ rhythm sections since the late 1970s, backing legends such as Dizzy Gillespie, Professor Longhair, and James Booker. Dillon and Haas, meanwhile, have been prominent figures in the national jazz and improvisational music scenes, leading and collaborating with groups like Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey, Garage A Trois, and Dead Kenny Gs. Their paths crossed frequently over decades of touring and performing, culminating in the spontaneous formation of Nolatet after a series of inspired jam sessions and festival appearances.

Nolatet’s music is characterized by fearless improvisation, dynamic interplay, and a willingness to push the boundaries of jazz. Their debut album, 'Dogs' (2016), was recorded in a single day at Esplanade Studios, capturing the raw energy and chemistry of the ensemble with minimal rehearsal and no overdubs. The band’s sophomore release, 'No Revenge Necessary,' further showcased their adventurous spirit, blending funk, swing, and avant-garde elements into a sound that is both rooted in New Orleans tradition and strikingly modern. Each member brings a distinct voice and decades of experience, resulting in a group dynamic that is both playful and profound, irreverent yet deeply respectful of jazz’s legacy.

Nolatet has quickly earned a reputation as one of New Orleans’ most innovative jazz collectives, celebrated for their electrifying live performances and their contributions to the ongoing evolution of the city’s music. Their work exemplifies the spirit of collaboration and reinvention that defines New Orleans jazz, and their influence continues to ripple through the local and national music scenes.

Fun Facts

• Nolatet recorded their entire debut album, 'Dogs,' in just one day, using only first or second takes and no overdubs.
• The band’s lineup spans three decades in age, with members in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and 70s, bringing a multi-generational perspective to their music.
• The group’s formation was sparked by a spontaneous set at the 2014 Telluride Jazz Festival, after which the members realized their unique chemistry.
• Each member of Nolatet is a bandleader in their own right, with extensive solo and collaborative discographies outside the group.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Professor Longhair - Vidacovich and Singleton performed as rhythm section for Professor Longhair, absorbing his unique approach to New Orleans rhythm and blues. (Live performances, session work) [1970s-1980s]
• James Booker - Vidacovich and Singleton played with Booker, learning from his innovative piano and compositional style. (Live performances) [1970s-1980s]

Key Collaborators

• Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey - Brian Haas led this group, with Dillon and Haas sharing bills and collaborating frequently. (Live performances, shared tours) [1990s-present]
• Garage A Trois - Dillon and Haas both performed with this experimental jazz group. (Live performances, albums) [2000s-present]
• Dead Kenny Gs - Dillon and Haas collaborated in this jazz-punk ensemble. (Live performances, albums) [2010s-present]

Artists Influenced

• Younger New Orleans jazz musicians - Vidacovich and Singleton are widely regarded as mentors and inspirations for a new generation of New Orleans rhythm section players. (Ongoing mentorship, workshops, live collaborations) [1990s-present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Lola (Lola)
2. Lola (Grandes Exitos)
3. TÓCATE (TÓCATE)
4. Mirar de Niña
5. Chica Pokemón (feat. Jedismusic) (Chica Pokemón (feat. Jedismusic))
6. No lo dudes más (Gote Greatest Hits)
7. MUCHO MAS (MUCHO MAS)
8. Gamberra
9. SALSA YIPETA (EL DE LA VOZ EXÓTICA)
10. Jorge Valdivia (Jorge Valdivia)

External Links

• Spotify
• MusicBrainz