The Delbert Anderson jazz trio returns to Willits Community Theatre on Sunday, September 18 at 2pm with its unique Southwest sounds and a new addition to its show. The Native American threesome thrilled its audience last year at WCT and its lineup now includes Southwest rap artist Def-i. Delbert Anderson says, “Why not keep pushing the musical boundaries”–in explaining how the trio has in the last year combined the musical forms of Jazz with Hip Hop in their collaboration with the rapper. Smooth, intelligent and rhythmic describes Def-I’s rhyming style.

Buy Tickets

Navajo horn player Anderson is joined by Mike McCluhan on stand-up bass and drummer Nicholas Lucero to make up the core trio. The group was formed in the deserts of the Southwest, and has performed at concerts throughout the United States. The three jazzmen serve up a spectacular cutting edge form of modern funk and jazz combined with ancient indigenous melodies, along with the new layering of Def-i’s rhymes.

Anderson has apprenticed with saxophonist Christopher Beaty and trumpeter John Kennedy. He found further influences in Lee Morgan, Clifford Brown, Sonny Rollins and Joshua Redman. McCluhan has a long career playing bass with many jazz artists. He draws heavily from a variety of influences, including The Grateful Dead and Charlie Mingus. Lucero on drums was born in Albuquerque, New Mexico and has played music since the age of five. His primary influences have included Chick Corea and John Coltrane and he has performed widely across the United States and parts of Europe.

The appearance of this jazz trio with Def-I at WCT promises to be a very special event. Advance tickets are $15 and available in person at Mazahar, 38 S. Main St., Willits; online at brownpapertickets.com; or by phone 24/7 at 1-800-838-3006. Tickets will also available at the door until sold out. The WCT playhouse is located at 37 W. Van Lane (behind Shanachie Pub).