Nicole McCabe/Darynn Dean Quintet

Preserving the warm buzz of early bebop while bravely exploring the jazz fusion of her contemporaries, LA alto saxophonist and composer Nicole McCabe is reaching beyond traditional jazz to blend a broad range of styles, making her one of the most compelling young composers and players in today’s West Coast jazz scene. Nicole has shared the stage with musicians such as George Colligan, Peter Erskine, Chuck Israels, Terri Lyne Carrington, Patrice Rushen, Bob Shepard, Jacob Mann, and Doug Webb.

Darynn Dean is a dynamic vocalist, captivating performer, and composer. Born and raised in Los Angeles, CA, she is no stranger to jazz.  Her rich musical legacy originates with her Grandfather, Donald Dean Senior (drummer), who toured with Les McCann, Eddie Harris, and Betty Carter. With her unique voice and timeless style, Darynn Dean has garnered the attention of audiences across the country. Her most notable performances include singing at the Walt Disney Concert Hall, the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C, and Jordan Hall in Boston MA. Some of Darynn’s past awards and honors include being a National Young Arts Gold Medalist, The Music Center Spotlight Awards Grand Prize Finalist, and 2019 participant in Betty Carter’s Jazz Ahead Residency at the Kennedy Center. In 2019, she created a documentary entitled, “All About Love: Jazz + Gender”, which chronicled her creation of the first ever All-Women’s Cross Big Band between New England Conservatory and Berklee College of Music. In the film she interviews prominent artists like Jason Moran (pianist) and Terri Lyne Carrington (drummer) dynamically exploring gender justice, equity, and love within the jazz community. Darynn strives to be the best and express herself both musically and socially. In her own words, “Right now, more than ever, we need music, love, and connection.” Taking a stand on and off stage, she is driven to reach all of her wildest dreams and become one of this generation’s musical greats. Darynn currently attends The Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz and Performance at the Herb Alpert School of Music at UCLA pursuing a Master of Music degree.

All shows at Sam First are 21+ (no one under the age of 21 will be permitted)

Show Times: 7:30pm & 9:00pm, and a separate ticket is required for each show.

Notice of Recording: Sam First live streams and records all concerts. By entering Sam First, you understand that your image and/or voice might be included in those recordings. Sam First reserves the right to use any photography, video or audio recording taken at this event, without the expressed written permission of those included within the photograph/video.