~ Julian Lage ~ Hailed by All About Jazz as “a giant in the making,” guitar virtuoso Julian Lage was the subject of an Academy Award-nominated documentary, Jules at Eight (1996). He gained pivotal early exposure as a protégé of legendary vibraphonist Gary Burton, recording and touring him on several projects. His other recent high-profile sideman appearances include Lucky to Be Me (2006) and Let it Come to You (2008), both by good friend and pianist Taylor Eigsti.
With his debut solo album Sounding Point (2009), Lage arrived at a unique approach to composition and ensemble craft, earning a 2009 Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Jazz Album. His latest album Gladwell (2011) represents another stage in that evolution, building on his proven strengths and solidifying a unique identity for Lage’s working band, while continuing to open new doors and exploring new horizons.