SML

Biography

SML is a contemporary jazz quintet formed in Los Angeles, California, comprising five highly regarded musicians from the city’s vibrant jazz, improvised, and indie music scenes. The group consists of bassist Anna Butterss, synthesist Jeremiah Chiu, saxophonist Josh Johnson, percussionist Booker Stardrum, and guitarist Gregory Uhlmann. Each member brings a wealth of experience from collaborations with leading artists such as Jason Isbell, Phoebe Bridgers, Meshell Ndegeocello, and Perfume Genius, among others. SML debuted with their album 'Small Medium Large' in June 2024, quickly earning recognition for their innovative approach to ensemble improvisation and production, including a #15 debut on Billboard's Contemporary Jazz Chart.

The band’s creative process is rooted in spontaneous improvisation, with performances often beginning without predetermined direction. This approach fosters a deep sense of trust and musical intuition among the members, resulting in dynamic and unpredictable live sets. SML’s studio work is equally collaborative, with all five musicians contributing to composition, production, and editing. Their sound draws comparisons to artists like Herbie Hancock and Essential Logic, blending elements of jazz, electronic, and experimental music into a cohesive, forward-thinking style.

SML’s legacy is rapidly growing within the Los Angeles music community, where they are seen as central figures in a new wave of jazz and improvised music. Their influence extends through overlapping projects, including Jeff Parker’s ETA IVtet and Expansion Trio, as well as solo and ensemble ventures by each member. With their second album 'How You Been' released in November 2025, SML continues to push boundaries and inspire a new generation of musicians.

Fun Facts

• SML’s debut album 'Small Medium Large' was recorded direct to Nagra tape at ETA in Los Angeles, emphasizing their commitment to high-fidelity, live-capture sound.
• The band’s performances are entirely improvised, with no set musical direction, making each show a unique experience.
• All five members are accomplished producers, and their albums are collaboratively mixed and edited by the group.
• SML’s name playfully references the clothing size scale (Small, Medium, Large), reflecting their flexible, expansive musical approach.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Jeff Parker - Influence and collaborative inspiration within the LA jazz scene; members have played in Parker's ensembles. (ETA IVtet, Expansion Trio) [2023–2025]

Key Collaborators

• Jason Isbell - Anna Butterss performed and recorded as bassist. (Live performances, studio sessions) [2022–2024]
• Phoebe Bridgers - Anna Butterss contributed bass to recordings and live shows. (Studio recordings, tours) [2022–2024]
• Meshell Ndegeocello - Josh Johnson performed as saxophonist and collaborator. (Live performances, studio work) [2022–2024]
• Ariel Kalma - Jeremiah Chiu collaborated on electronic and ambient projects. (Studio collaborations) [2022–2024]
• Perfume Genius - Gregory Uhlmann contributed guitar to recordings and performances. (Studio recordings, tours) [2022–2024]

Artists Influenced

• Expansion Trio - SML members’ approach to improvisation and ensemble work has inspired this LA-based group. (Live performances, collaborative projects) [2024–2025]
• Anna Butterss Band - Butterss’s solo work and band projects reflect SML’s collaborative ethos. (Mighty Vertebrate (2024)) [2024]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Rubber Tree Dance (Small Medium Large)
2. Rubber Tree Dance (Small Medium Large)
3. Industry (Small Medium Large)
4. Window Sill Song (Small Medium Large)
5. Industry (Small Medium Large)
6. Soft Sand (Small Medium Large)
7. Window Sill Song (Small Medium Large)
8. Soft Sand (Small Medium Large)
9. Search Bar Hi Hat (Small Medium Large)
10. Three Over Steel (Small Medium Large)

External Links

• Spotify
• MusicBrainz