Blackberry Jam got started back in 2005 when a Bass Clarinetist named Sam gathered together a small group of friends looking for a positive outlet for some musical expression. The early lineup included Sam, Singer/Songwriter Mick Schafer, Singer/Songwriter Tony and Multi Instrumentalist/Songwriter Tom. The group was formed with the sole intention of making some nice music for a couple of hours a week. A unique and eclectically influenced blend of style developed and monthly gigs started to enter the picture. The name Blackberry Jam was chosen to represent the sweet and northwestern homegrown flavor of the music with a stress on improvisation and spontaneity.
Meanwhile, a recording project was started with sound engineer Dean Baskerville, who has worked with the likes of Everclear, Pink Martini and Sheryl Crow. Blackberry Jam are currently finishing up the recording project and expect a CD release sometime this year. The tracks Tree Top and Don't Wanna Waste are a work in progress from these recording sessions. They are just a couple of aspects of the multi faceted style of the band.In the Summer of '07, Sam moved up to his farm in central Washington and Tony had a long term injury to his hand, but Mick and Tom went on playing. Then, ace harmonica player Garrett joined the band. He added a strong Chicago Blues influence to the sound, but has a deftness and sensitivity that allows him to creatively mix with a wide stylistic range.
In 2008 we have added Aubrey on the Cello and Diana on the Bass. Aubrey recently graduated from music school and brings a refined ear and excellent skills to the group as well as a unique and creative cello sound. Diana, who is a skilled musician and songwriter and has recently taken up the bass with great enthusiasm and is bringing a new layer of depth to the band's creative process.
Mick, Garrett, Diana, Aubrey and Tom now comprise the core of the band with other friends that join them for various gigs. A whole new sound has been created in the hopes that you too might enjoy some Jam with your breakfast and any other part of your day.
Stay tuned for more recorded music and performance dates.
Click Here to sign up for our mailling list.Here's Mick Schafer playing Don't Want to Waste It.