Updated: July 24, 2025
Born: March 18, 1962
RED123 emerged from the creative depths of a "Basement Recording" project during the COVID-19 lockdown, exploring unique tunings and innovative sounds. In his early 20's Steve Bryant spent six years playing guitar as a member of the United States Navy Band—an experience that infused his music with a unique blend of structure and improvisation, akin to jazz. This duality reflects his artistic vision, merging disciplined technique with free-spirited expression. Steve is not only a talented guitarist but also a dedicated music educator, composer, and practicing musician. This past year, he has shared the stage with renowned artists including Joshua Redman, further enriching his artistic perspective.
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Steve Bryant: New Town
by Kyle Simpler
Near the end of James Baldwin's short story, “Sonny's Blues," the narrator watches Sonny perform in a jazz club, where he describes the crowd as gathering around the piano while Sonny's fingers filled the air with life, his life. But that life contained so many others. In many ways, this description captures the essence of musicianship. Players bring their creations to life, but each of these carries its own history and influences. This is certainly evident in Red 123's album ...
Continue Reading"New Town is a rich, multi-dimensional EP released as RED123. This Collection of tunes, written by guitarist/leader Steve Bryant, is a tapestry of feelings, emotions, desires, longings, understandings... all woven together by Bryant and some truly brilliant musicians and artists." --Joe Caroselli for Jazz Monthly Magazine
“Steve, however was a revelation on guitar, his long fingers allowing him to create runs on the fret board which were pleasing to the ear and I doubt many players could duplicate. TriCity Jazz with Steve Bryant are one of the finest interpreters of this music on the Jersey Shore.” —TOM BALDINO, JERSEY SHORE JAZZ & BLUES FOUNDATION
