He can make even the most reluctant of critics enthusiastic. Branford Marsalis (1960) is the eldest son of pianist Ellis Marsalis; five brothers came after him, including trumpet giant Wynton. Branford entered the Berklee School of Music in 1979 and afterwards gained valuable experience playing with the bands of Art Blakey, Lionel Hampton and pop idol Sting. His first album was Scenes in the City (1984). After various activities, in 1992 he became leader of The Tonight Show house band. He has been touring with the Buckshot LeFonque project since 1995. The project is a mix of blues, hip-hop, R&B and, naturally, jazz. The group has even scored pop hits! For the CD Metamorphosen (2009), Marsalis immersed himself in the work of Richard Strauss. The saxophonist will be performing with his quartet.
