John Raymond, jazz trumpeter and newest Jazz Studies faculty member at the prestigious Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University,is making a name for himself as one of the most promising, genre-bending musicians in jazz today. With a singular voice as a trumpeter, flugelhornist and composer, Raymond is “steering jazz in the right direction” (Downbeat Magazine) by pushing its boundaries, seamlessly incorporating indie-rock, folk and electronic influences into his music. “This is jazz, yes, but jazz with an open mind." (Something Else).

Raymond’s primary band Real Feels is a bass-less trio which includes rising stars Gilad Hekselman (guitar), Colin Stranahan (drums) and Raymond on flugelhorn. The group incorporates indie-rock, folk and electronic influences with a background in jazz and improvisation, combining unique original compositions with fresh takes on familiar songs by artists such as Paul Simon, Bob Dylan, and Radiohead.

The group’s debut album “Real Feels” was released in 2016 and received high praise from the New York Times, Downbeat and JazzTimes among others. It was also lauded by Stereogum as one the best jazz albums of the year. Embarking on a 40+ city tour of the United States, the group proceeded to release “Real Feels Live Vol. 1” later that year, a live recording documenting the band’s growth on the road. Their 2018 release “Joy Ride”, the band’s first on Sunnyside Records, led to another extensive tour and has yielded their newest album and most poignant statement yet - “Real Feels Live Vol. 2” (released January 2019). Warm, lyrical melodies are complemented by an infusion of electronics and effects, giving the group a sound that is entirely accessible and relevant. Add to this the deep chemistry between the musicians, and it’s no surprise that Real Feels is one of the hottest new groups in jazz today.