Mike Thompson - 6th Avenue

2025

For Mike Thompson, music has always been a centering force-whether composing, arranging, or producing, he knows he is doing what he was born to do. Drawing inspiration from jazz greats like Bob Brookmeyer and Maria Schneider, alongside classical influences such as Igor Stravinsky, Thompson has developed a unique voice as a contemporary jazz composer.

His fascination with music production led him to study the groundbreaking work of Quincy Jones in the 70s and 80s and Max Martin in the 90s and 2000s-visionaries who reshaped their respective genres through innovation and deep musical understanding.

With 6th Avenue, Thompson embarks on the next chapter of his creative journey, marking the launch of the Mike Thompson Big Band-a powerhouse ensemble of 17 exceptional musicians. Having spent years writing commissioned works for big bands, this album is his opportunity to present a deeply personal collection of compositions and arrangements that showcase his distinct musical perspective.

Recorded at Q Division Studios in Cambridge, MA, and featuring an all-star lineup of musicians, 6th Avenue blends intricate jazz orchestration with the rhythmic and harmonic sensibilities that have long inspired Thompson. From hard-swinging moments to lush ballads, the album is a testament to his ability to merge tradition with contemporary influence, delivering a fresh and compelling big band experience.