CHIVES represents the collective musical output of bassist Matthew Wohl, multi-reedist Steven Lugerner and drummer Max Jaffe. Their music is a continuation of the jazz trio continuum - yet CHIVES’ repertoire is heavily influenced by the world of songwriting. Collaborators since middle school, the trio has managed to maintain an ever evolving musical connection that is truly unique because of their deep personal one.
CHIVES is not only a platform for fluid improvisation and composition but a story of common experiences, aesthetic intentions, and beginnings. Born between 1987 & ’88, CHIVES grew up together in the sleepy suburbs of San Francisco, surrounded by peers and teachers that nourished their musical sensibilities. They have collaborated together in various settings since middle school - a total of eighteen years; more than half their lives. CHIVES produced and released "For Brian Wilson" (2010) and "DADS" (2012) for the Primary Records label while living together in Brooklyn, NY. Their third recording "YEAUX" was recorded while balancing life between San Francisco & New York City. “They’re a limber group…the rhythm bringing elasticity and bounce to the alternately airy and driving groove brought by Lugerner” says the Chicago Reader. Their music has been critically picked alongside the likes of The Bad Plus & Dave Douglas.
