Swingshift - This stylish vocal jazz group was formed in Santa Monica in 2002. Swing Shift draws on a variety of sources: from swing tunes to Broadway, from groove to folk, from Latin to contemporary. All of these styles inform the group’s sound and character. The group is lucky to count three accomplished arrangers among its members. Phil Azelton’s work is widely sung in jazz and school ensembles, and his ballads are much-admired for their lush harmonies. Founder Richard Gilinsky contributes many of the group’s current repertoire, ranging from up-tempo swing to reharmonized folk and show tunes. One of the newest members, Michael Kohl, has demonstrated his considerable talent as an up-and-coming vocal jazz arranger. Swing Shift will entertain you with swinging groove pieces embodying scat solos to show off the group’s versatility. They will lull you with rich, warm ballads. They will surprise you with unexpected turns of phrase and rich and surprising chord progressions. Swing Shift loves to sing, and hopes to share its vocal joy with all who care to listen.

Members: Jessica Freedman, Katharine Hoye, Michael Kohl, Phil Azelton, Richard Gilinsky, Tyler Azelton