B.D. Lenz
B.D. Lenz is a NJ-based, funky/jazz guitarist, with 13 recordings as a leader
Follow B.D. Lenz on All About Jazz
About Me
Mix the sophistication of jazz, the grit of Blues, and the grooves of funk and soul, and you
have the recipe for contempo-jazz guitarist B.D. Lenz. The New Jersey native has played
guitar since his early teens, is a graduate of Musicians Institute in Los Angeles, and has
studied with such masters as Mike Stern, Vic Juris, and Charlie Banacos along the way.
Lenz has released 13 highly-acclaimed recordings as a leader featuring greats such as Mike
Stern, Randy Brecker, Will Lee, Joel Rosenblatt, & Mark Egan and his music has been featured
in hundreds of TV shows globally including “Breaking Bad” (AMC), “Catfish” (MTV), and
Anthony Bourdain's No Reservations” (Travel Channel) to name a few. This Godin-endorsed
guitarist has performed thousands of shows internationally, is a columnist for
AllAboutJazz.com and is a staff composer for Gramoscope Music which makes custom music
for many television shows.
“...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
“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
“Lenz transitions from fleet and nimble to heavy and funky, maintaining interest throughout
with an interesting sonic palette.” – Jazziz Magazine
“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
“...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
“...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
“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
“…[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
...a solid guitarist and composer...[”Straight Up”] features a distinctive contemporary
style... – Newark Star-Ledger
“Lenz has mastered his instrument and his confidence overflows everywhere...” – All
About Jazz
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