Mona's
Hot Four evolved out of a weekly trad-jazz jam session started in June,
2007 by Dennis Lichtman (of the Cangelosi Cards). The adventurous,
open spirit of the weekly gig has attracted countless notable special
guests and continually spawns exciting and spontaneous collaborations,
many of which were captured during the recording of the band's new CD,
Live At Mona's.
The
atmosphere of the weekly session was inspired by the famed traditional
Irish sessions that had taken place at Mona's every Monday for over 10
years – a laid-back environment that welcomes guest musicians with open
arms, while keeping the music hot.
Gordon Webster and Cassidy Holden (both also of the Cangelosi Cards) became regulars in the “house band” in late 2007 and soon after, the great Nick Russo came on board.
Mona's Hot Four are:
Dennis Lichtman – clarinet
Gordon Webster – piano
Cassidy Holden – bass
Nick Russo – banjo/guitar