Upside offers an eclectic mix of fusion, funk, smooth, and contemporary jazz flavors in one tasty serving. If you're looking for something a bit more adventurous than the typical smooth jazz CD, this is for you.

11 MP3 Songs
JAZZ: Jazz Fusion, JAZZ: Smooth Jazz



Details:
A native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, alto saxophonist Tom Meston grew up listening to Weather Report, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, George Duke, Billy Cobham, and many other musicians that defined the "fusion" genre in the '70's. It was this music that inspired Meston to be a musician and write music.

Meston studied music with pianist David Budway while attending Duquesne University in Pittsburgh. It was around this time that he started performing his original compositions in the local jazz clubs. His band Stir-Fry played regularly around the town, making their mark as a young, energetic ensemble with fresh, original compositions. The band gained a wider audience after opening for various well-known musicians, including Pat Metheny and Kenny G.

In 1992, Meston released "If You Only Knew", an album that defined his compositional style and his voice on the alto saxophone. The recording was played regularly on WDUQ, Pittsburgh's local jazz radio station.

On his latest recording, Upside, Meston plays saxophone and keyboards, and it further illustrates his strength as a writer. The CD also features some of Pittsburgh's best musicians, and the proceeds from the recording benefit A Reason To Hope Cancer Fund, which supports the UPCI and UPMC Cancer Centers. These organizations are internationally recognized for their efforts in finding new treatments and cures for cancer.

Meston's music defies labeling. It's not smooth jazz. It's not fusion. It's not funk or R&B. It's all of that and a whole lot more. Check it out.