Nick Rossi Set
The Nick Rossi Set disbanded in 2008. One of the most popular Hammond organists and bandleaders on the scene today, Nick Rossi has led his internationally renowned combo since 1997. The group continues to feature the best young musicians in the San Francisco-Bay Area and remains a permanent popular fixture in the nightclubs. Nick was born in San Diego, California, USA in 1971. He relocated to San Francisco in 1989 and quickly became a prime mover in the local Rhythm & Blues scene: forming the Loved Ones in 1990 and Ron Silva & the Monarchs in 1993. His move to the Hammond organ and jazz music was signaled by the debut of the Nick Rossi Set at the end of 1997 at the legendary In 'n' Out Club. The Set quickly established themselves as a premier headline attraction while sharing the stage with such acts as the James Taylor Quartet, Ozomatli, and Big Boss Man. The group appeared throughout their native California as well as England and Spain. Their recordings have been released by Acid Jazz (UK), Trouble & Tea (Spain), Bip Bip (Spain), and Blow It Hard Records (UK). Their long-awaiting debut long-player was released on CD by Hammondbeat at the end of 2006 with an LP edition released on Flare Records shortly thereafter. Featuring the group at it's cohesive, mature best, "On The Outset" showcases 7 original instrumental soul-jazz compositions that have successfully crossed-over to mainstream jazz circles. Although the sound of the group continues to change and progress over time, the musical goal of the Nick Rossi Set has always been to provide music for the head, feet, and souls of it's fans. By digging deep into the classic soul-jazz and boogaloo bags of Blue Note and Prestige Records and adding a healthy shot of R&B, soul, and funk – the group continues to hit the mark. Nicks lists his favorite organists as Big John Patton, Brother Jack McDuff, Larry Young, and Brian Auger. Among his contemporaries: Rory O'Donoghue, Adam Scone, Wil Blades, and Paolo Negri are at the top of his list. Other inspirations include Herbie Hancock, Joseph Campbell, Noam Chomsky, and Federico Fellini.
Members: Andrew Borger, Nick Rossi, David Stark, Fil Lorenz, Joel Ryan (2), and John Kent (2)
