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Downloadable Press Kit (PDF) - click here

Bio: The New York Times says of guitarist B.D. Lenz, "part of the reason for his accessibility is that he not only fuses jazz and rock, he complements it with the warm chords of funk, soul, and rhythm and blues." He has built an international following with his signature blend of contemporary jazz, fusion, and groove-based improvisation. A seasoned performer, Lenz has released over a dozen recordings as a leader and has collaborated with such musical luminaries as Randy Brecker, Mike Stern, Will Lee, and Mark Egan.

Whether playing festivals, intimate clubs, or at prestigious venues like the Iridium in New York and London’s Pizza Express, Lenz brings a rare combination of technical command, emotional depth, and audience connection. His music has been featured on hundreds of TV and film placements worldwide including Breaking Bad, Young Sheldon, Catfish, and Chicago Fire.

Originally from New Jersey, Lenz tours extensively throughout the United States, Europe, and the UK - both as a solo artist and with his long-running trio. When he’s not on the road, this Godin-endorsed guitarist is composing for Gramoscope Music, and writing columns for AllAboutJazz.com.

Noteworthy Appearances: Jazz at Lincoln Center (NYC), Iridium (NYC), Rochester Int'l Jazz Festival (NY), Birmingham Jazz Festival (UK), Swansea Jazz Festival (UK), Nantwich Jazz Festival (UK), Cape May Jazz Festival (NJ), Swansea Jazz (Wales UK), Oswego Harborfest (NY), Musikfest (Pa.), Deer Head Inn (Pa.), 55 Bar (NYC), Museum of Modern Art (NYC), Pizza Express (London UK), Branford Jazz on the Green (Ct.) Scott's Jazz (Belfast NI) The Verdict (Brighton UK), 27b Flat (Brugges BE), Jazzkeller (Frankfurt DE), Cafe Miles (Amersfoort NL), PBS TV (USA) BBC Radio (Cambridge UK)

Accomplishments:
* Music has been featured on hundreds of TV shows internationally  see list (PDF)
* Band has performed over 1000 gigs internationally
* Has released 13 recordings as a leader
* Composer for Gramoscope Music
* Columnist for AllAboutJazz.com
* Four-time top N. American jazz group on the largest online booking site TheBash.com.
* Endorsed by Godin Guitars

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Audio:


Press:
"...Part of the reason for his accessibility is that he not only fuses jazz and rock, he complements it with warm chords of funk, soul, and rhythm and blues..." – New York Times  read article

Interview with B.D. – London Jazz New  read article

"Bottom Line: Lenz is a real embodiment of a guitar hero...But just like jaguars are born to run, Lenz is born to play...leaving the listener breathless in their musical journey with him. He is a big sound, a big talent...powerfully impressive taken all in all." – Jazz Inside Magazine  read article

"Lenz transitions from fleet and nimble to heavy and funky, maintaining interest throughout with an interesting sonic palette." – Jazziz Magazine  read article

"While doing a live album, with such a diverse repertoire, poses risk, Lenz rises to the occasion, releasing an entertaining and engaging album that is sure to be included on this year’s 'Best of' lists for jazz guitar." – Guitar International  read article

"...Lenz's music portrays his deep attachment to groove and rhythm as well as an uncanny ability to craft interesting and memorable melodies..." – AllAboutJazz.com  read article

"...he has released six CDs, he has logged untold hours onstage and his music has been licensed for use in more than 100 TV shows. Even so, Lenz says his latest release, Hit It and Quit It, represents a big step for him..." – BMI.com  read article

Cover story about B.D. Lenz and Apria Records by JazzImprov NY - read article (PDF)

"Contemporary jazz guitarist B.D. Lenz’s quartet lays down a funky, jamming vibe...integrating catchy good time grooves with moodier, blues-inflicted pieces" – JazzTimes  read article

“…[Straight Up] is so there, so ideal, so darn near perfect that it makes a listener want to head straight up there in a pilgrimage to quality...” – JazzImprov Magazine  read article (PDF)

...a solid guitarist and composer...["Straight Up"] features a distinctive contemporary style... – Newark Star-Ledger  read article

“Lenz has mastered his instrument and his confidence overflows everywhere..." – All About Jazz