Darryl Evan Jones

In the tradition of pioneering contemporary jazz greats like Tim Weisberg and Hubert Laws, Darryl Evan Jones (long known by his fans and peers as “the fluteman”) brings the unique instrument’s classic vibe and rich melodic and harmonic possibilities to a new generation. The multi-talented Bronx, New York raised performer—who moved to Memphis several years ago—fully embraces the indie artist spirit with a style that reflects the many different sides of Jones’ unique musical personality. The same way that people who love Jones’ music are often surprised to learn he is also an accomplished aircraft mechanic, former semi-pro football player and body builder, he aims to reflect the wide array of influences that inspired him to dream of a music career in the first place. Beyond the in the pocket up tempo funk tunes and ballads that capture the essence of today’s urban jazz, Jones ventures into old school R&B/jazz, blues, Latin and gospel—even a touch of classical strings. In Jones’ musical world, which began playing with his brothers in church and included a gig with the Bronx Borough-wide Band at Carnegie Hall during high school, the flute becomes a portal into a world of grooving, jazzy new adventures. Shattering expectations and preconceived notions of what he and his flute should sound like, Jones freely and creatively focuses on the beauty of his musical expression. “I am a fan of all kinds of music and listen to just about everything,” he says. “I deliberately ignore critics who say that you must like only this or that, or play only one style instead of incorporating a lot of unique melodic and rhythmic ideas. That’s nonsense. If it speaks to me and I feel it, I will listen to it and play it. I love everything from David Sanborn to Bon Jovi, Earth, Wind & Fire to Beethoven, Kenny Rogers to Chaka Kahn. Why limit ourselves? Darryl Evan Jones invites you to experience and enjoy his original band and sound he calls "Instrumental Soul".