Signal Quartet is a collective musical ensemble based in Southeast Michigan consisting of Ben Wolkins on Trumpet and Flugelhorn, Ian Blunden on Guitar, Eric Nachtrab on Bass and Sean Perlmutter on Drums. The group has evolved to focus entirely on original music composed by members of the ensemble. The material covers a wide swath of musical terrain, but each piece has a strong identity and serves as a springboard for the musicians’ empathetic improvisations. Signal Quartet’s approach to music is one of “letting it all in”; following the thread of the music where it leads, regardless of stylistic constraints; embracing the jazz tradition while refusing to shave off or smooth over any of its eccentricities or irregularities.
The band’s self-titled debut – consisting mostly of pieces by Nachtrab – was released in August of 2022, and the release was celebrated with a performance at the Detroit Jazz Festival the following Month.
Their sophomore effort, Second Exploration: The Music of Ben Wolkins, (released in April 2023) was promoted by a Midwest tour, featured as a “new and notable release” on Bandcamp’s homepage, and continues to receive radio play around the US.
The band plans to tour again in 2024 and record a third album featuring compositions by all four members.
