Based on friendship and mutual respect, Tyler Massey Quartet (aka TMQ) evolved organically over a period of several years, coalescing around the unaffected catalogue of American indie songs written by Maryland-born guitarist Tyler Massey. Employing the impressive bass and production skills of Alex Knight, a musician TM had met at an open mic in Worcester, the two made the EP American Nightmare together in 2017, with the help of legendary drummer Morris Windsor (The Soft Boys, Robyn Hitchcock and recently with Kimberley Rew).
Before the duo’s next effort All The Pretty Lights (2019), they were permanently joined by another of TM’s long-term musical allies, the charmingly self-effacing Eric Hej on percussion. They started playing almost constantly as an acoustic trio (TMT), clocking dozens of memorable, well-received performances in the West Midlands, noted for their versatility, raw honesty and wry humour.
Happily, in 2023, the line-up was completed by another of TM’s friends from his early days in the UK (he moved here permanently in 2005), versatile soloist Ralph Jackson on alto / tenor saxophones and flute. Armed with a new sound (full drum kit, jangly Fender electric guitar, fearsome bass lines and soaring sax parts) and propelled by a handful of unforgettable new songs, they have quickly become a compelling live act. They’re currently preparing for their first headline set at The Upton Blues Festival (23rd July) and making plans to do a live-in-the-studio EP (currently titled Slowly Turning Blue) in the autumn.
Watch Tyler Massey Quartet on YouTube Tyler Massey – YouTube
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