THE HULAGOONS
7.00
Faux-Hawaiian Ensemble
JAMES BROWN/MIKUE MILLIGAN
11.00
James Brown (electric guitar/compositions) and Mike Milligan (double bass) have been performing together for over 15 years.
As veterans of the Canadian music scene these two musicians breathe a fresh approach into the art of collective improvisation.
They build on a tradition established by such jazz luminaries as Jim Hall, Bill Frisell, Pat Metheny, Scott Lafaro, Dave Holland, and many more. With this as a starting point they create a sound and style "of their own" by playing music that is positively influenced by a variety of genres.
The instrumental blend of electric guitar and double bass form a pallet of tonal possibilities that extend beyond the reach of the average jazz ensemble. Their sound travels along a wide spectrum ranging from impossibly quiet and gentle to aggressively intense.
These two musicians keep a constant focus on re-creating the music, not just playing the music the "way it was played before". This is evident in their live presentation. In so doing James and Mike bring an exciting and diverse presentation that is enjoyed by all who hear them live.
Guitarist, composer and educator James Brown has been a long time staple on the Canadian jazz scene. James’ most recent recording Song Within the Story was released in 2022 (NGP Records) and features guest tenor sax giant Mike Murley. Marrying his extensive background in classical performing and composing with jazz, James has created a unique musical space for himself.
Double bassist, educator and sound engineer Mike Milligan (nominated as Jazz Bassist of the Year at the 2008 National Jazz Awards) is a fixture on the Canadian jazz scene and has been since the mid eighties. He has performed with internationally recognized musicians such as David Liebman, Chet Baker, Joshua Redman to name a few. As a sideman and leader, Mike has toured extensively worldwide. His solo bass CD Solo Flights, has been well received by jazz fans and critics alike. Along with James Brown, Mike released a duo album entitled Six Plus Four in 2024.