Lawrence Clark Band

Inspired by the groundbreaking soundscapes of the legendary John Coltrane Quartet and the iconic Miles Davis Quintet, the ensemble blends tradition and the present into a distinctive, powerful sound.

At the same time, the music also reflects Lawrence Clark’s experiences as a member of Rashied Ali’s final quintet.

Based in New York, the ensemble has performed at renowned venues and festivals worldwide and most recently wowed audiences at the prestigious Blue Note Beijing. The band sees itself as a musical unit in which every individual counts: diverse backgrounds merge into a finely balanced interplay—marked by mutual respect, openness, and extraordinary expressiveness.

Bandleader Lawrence Clark grew up in Camden, New Jersey, near Philadelphia. He discovered his passion for music at an early age and initially played the alto and baritone saxophones before devoting himself to the tenor saxophone at the renowned Berklee College of Music. There, teachers such as Fred Lipsius, Andy McGee, and Bill Pierce had a lasting influence on him. After several years in Boston, Clark moved to New York City to further develop his artistic vision.

Throughout his career, he has collaborated with numerous giants of the international jazz scene, including Norman Simmons, Winard Harper, Jeremy Pelt, Orrin Evans, Tyshawn Sorey, Billy Hart, Reggie Workman, and Rashied Ali. Concert tours have taken him across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Africa, as well as to numerous prestigious jazz festivals.

For his current ensemble, Clark has assembled outstanding musical personalities who breathe life into his compositions:

Trumpeter Josh Evans is among the most distinctive voices of his generation. With a powerful, expressive tone and deep roots in tradition, he has worked with artists such as Herbie Hancock and Curtis Fuller. His music combines a sense of tradition with uncompromising innovative power.

At the piano is Alan Bartuš, one of the most prominent figures in modern European jazz. Shaped by a classical education and international studies—including time at Berklee College of Music—he has developed a unique musical language. He is particularly known for his collaboration with Jerry Bergonzi.

Bassist Conway Campbell, born in Jamaica, is a sought-after musician with deep roots in jazz, gospel, and soul. He has played with Dizzy Gillespie, Freddie Hubbard, and Dee Dee Bridgewater, among others, and captivates audiences with his warm, powerful sound.

On drums is Genius Wesley, one of the most exciting young voices on the scene. With energy, virtuosity, and a keen sense of groove, he has already worked with artists such as Robert Glasper and Esperanza Spalding.

Together, the Lawrence Clark Band creates an intense, vibrant sonic experience—deeply rooted in jazz yet open to new musical horizons.