Starlicker

Origin

Chicago, IL

Years active

2010s

Genres

jazz, avant-garde jazz, post-bop, improvisation

Instruments

cornet, vibraphone, drums

Biography

Starlicker is an avant-garde jazz trio formed in Chicago, consisting of cornetist Rob Mazurek, vibraphonist Jason Adasiewicz, and drummer John Herndon. The group emerged in the 2010s, with their debut album "Double Demon" released in 2011 on the Delmark label. The trio's music is characterized by its acoustic nature and draws heavily from avant-garde jazz, post-bop, and improvisation.

Starlicker's bass-less format encourages a reinvention of traditional jazz trio roles, fostering an unconventional approach to composition and arrangement. Rob Mazurek, the group's leader, also leads the larger Exploding Star Orchestra and has a significant connection to Brazil, having collaborated with São Paulo Underground. This connection led to the recording of the live album "Skull Sessions" in São Paulo, Brazil, featuring members of both Starlicker and São Paulo Underground.

The music of Starlicker has been noted for its improvisational depth and energetic performances. While primarily associated with the Chicago jazz scene, their work has also been recognized internationally, with performances and recordings documented in various music databases and festival lineups. The trio's sound is often described as kinetic, improvisatory, and imaginative, pushing the boundaries of contemporary jazz.