Charlie Ballantine – Guitar
Peter Brendler – Bass
Dan Weiss – Drums
Charlie Ballantine, recognized as one of the top 200 living guitarists by All About Jazz Magazine, is celebrated for his versatility and skill. Jazz Times Magazine praises his intricate and precise guitar work, describing it as both beautiful and complex, while Vintage Guitar Magazine notes his blend of jazz, rock, and folk.
Ballantine, who graduated from the Jacobs School of Music under David Baker, has made a name for himself with original compositions on albums like “Vonnegut” and “Cold Coffee” and by honoring jazz standards. His 2021 double album dedicated to Thelonious Monk is a testament to his reverence for jazz tradition. Jazziz Magazine compares him to guitarists like John Scofield and Bill Frisell, highlighting his blend of jazz and rock influences.
After moving to Indianapolis, Ballantine gained recognition with energetic performances and his award-winning album “Life is Brief: The Music of Bob Dylan,” which was named one of the top ten jazz albums of the year by All About Jazz.
In addition to leading his own projects and performing across the US and Canada, including at major festivals, Ballantine has an extensive list of collaborations with notable musicians such as Rob Dixon and Emmett Cohen. Vintage Guitar Magazine describes his style as a mix of jazz, folk-rock, surf, blues, pop, and country, reflecting his diverse musical influences.