About Us
Since the group's formation in 2011, BT ALC Big Band, led by trombonist Brian Thomas and trumpeter Alex Lee-Clark, has reshaped the depiction of the big band ensemble. By employing the traditional instrumentation of 5 saxophones, 4 trumpets, 4 trombones and rhythms section reminiscent of Duke Ellington and Count Basie while infusing funk, soul and hip hop, BT ALC Big Band has created an undeniably unique sound they dub Big Band Funk.
Experiencing the band live is always a feast for the ears and the soul, fueled by tight arrangements, virtuosic solos and a deep groove provided by their rhythm section. The BT ALC Big Band catalog of original repertoire encompassing funk, soul, hip hop, afrobeat, reggae and jazz styles, combined with a rotating cast of Boston’s heaviest hitters make each show special and equally viable at festivals, jazz clubs and theaters.
BT and Alex met at UMASS Amherst studying composition and arranging with Jeff Holmes.
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discography
Full length Albums
Superhero Dance Party (2013)
The Herd Sessions Vol. 1 (2016)
The Herd Sessions Vol. 2 (2016)
The Search For Peace (Ropeadope, 2019)
Hearing The Truth (Vintage League Music, 2023)
singles
Africa (Ropeadope, 2019)
Damn’ Right I’m Somebody (Ropeadope, 2019)
Bring Forth Change feat: Eric Benny Bloom & Nigel Hall (Vintage League Music, 2020)
The Iguana feat: Eric Krasno & Karl Denson (Vintage League Music, 2020)
What Will You Do feat: John Medeski (Vintage League Music, 2020)
Listen on Spotify | Apple Music
education
BT ALC Big Band demonstrates their commitment to education through clinics, workshops and performances with students throughout New England. Whether that’s an elementary student learning to make sense out of their new band instrument or a college student searching for their own improvisational and artistic voice, the focus is to help students build confidence and create their own music.
Performing at the MAJE State Festival Finals - Norwood, MA
