Heyman

Formed in 2023, Heyman is a quartet led by saxophonist Michael Hudson-Casanova that explores a vast sonic territory of improvised music. Heyman draws influence from jazz sources in the bop, cool, free, and modal realms, especially Paul Motian’s bands, the Tristano school, and George Garzone’s “The Fringe.” The ensemble’s rhythm section featuring Mike Lorenz on guitar, Matt Scarano on drums, and Sandy Eldred on bass has had a relationship spanning over a decade, making this relatively new band sound like one that has been playing together for much longer. All members of the ensemble are present in the greater Philadelphia music scene.

 

Hudson-Casanova’s compositions are “complex and nuanced, inventive and accessible” (Haryr Attarian, All About Jazz). His influences range from Lee Konitz to Michael Brecker to Tim Berne, and he has studied saxophone with altoists Dick Oatts and David Binney. Heyman released their self-titled debut album on the Each and Only label in June, 2024. Their Midwest album release tour spanned over 1,000 miles throughout Michigan, Indiana, and Illinois, performing at renowned venues like Cliff Bell’s, the Alluvion, and Merrimans’ Playhouse. The band plans to record their second album in the spring of 2025.