“Clark controls the B3 like a master: hip bass lines, sizzling chordal washes, feel-good riffs, funky blues lines and syncopated accents figure in the mix.” – Jazz Times
“[Ken Clark] plays a supercharged Hammond B-3 the way it used to be played, leading a top-notch rhythm section in grooves that bring to mind the great Jimmy Smith, Larry Clark, and Don Patterson albums of the 1950’s and 60’s.” – L.A. Daily News
Formed in 1992 by founding members Ken Clark and Mike Mele, the Ken Clark Organ Trio has been continually captivating New England audiences night after night. Influenced by his mother’s gift as a pianist, Ken started on the organ at an early age. “I played in church and still do today,” notes Clark. Despite its difficulty, Ken really took to the instrument and says, “I feel comfortable playing the organ, using not only my hands but both feet to play the bass lines. I really like being involved in many aspects of creating music and the organ lets me to do that.”
Guitarist Mike Mele met Ken while they were attending the Berklee School of Music. Originally from New York, Mike moved to Boston in the mid-80s to study under renowned jazz greats, Charlie Banacos and Garrison Fewell.
Drummer Steve Chaggaris is the newest member of the trio and he brings with him an impressive resume including degrees from the Berklee College of Music and the New England Conservatory of Music. Steve has studied under some of the greats including Bob Gullotti (The Fringe) and the late renowned master drummer Alan Dawson.
DISCOGRAPHY
Mutual Respect (Severn CD-0035)
Eternal Funk (Severn CD-0021)
Ken Clark Organ Trio (Aspire Records)
Michelle Willson – Wake Up Call (Bullseye/Rounder)
John Stein – Hotcakes (A Records)
Liz Lannon – Blues Party (Black Rose)
Fatwall Jack – Girl Next Door (Fatwall Jack)
