Igmar Thomas: July 2011

Igmar Thomas Bio

Musician Feature: The Revivalist

Trumpeter, composer, arranger, bandleader… IGMAR THOMAS has developed his craft since the age of 12, picking up appendages to his style from playing with legends such as Lionel Hampton, Clark Terry, Roy Hargrove, Ralph Peterson, and Terri Lynne Carrington. He graduated from Berklee College of Music in 2006 where he studied on a full scholarship, and met many of the players that would soon make up his group.

Igmar combines the sophistication of Jazz with the influences of hip hop and what sets Igmar apart from other bands is his emphasis on improvisation, a common feature of both Jazz and hip hop. Though the songs are arranged to follow a certain form, Igmar encourages the musicians to bring their own inflections and independence to each piece. "We have an unapologetic approach to improvising to [our] greatest ability every time over fused Jazz and hip hop grooves." These ingredients, structure and freestyle, represent the tug-of-war between the known and unknown, education and instinct. This is the basis for his art and the original basis for music that hasn't been seen years in a seemingly mass-produced industry. "We want to carry on the legacy of Louis Armstrong, Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Fela Kuti, 2pac, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, and Biggie."

Featuring only musicians of the highest caliber, his group will undoubtedly attain longevity in an ever-changing musical scene.

Sunday, July 3, 2011

Igmar Thomas | Europe Tour with Blitz the Ambassador