In an era of instant gratification, Charlie Porter stands as a reminder that depth still matters, that complexity can be beautiful, and that music remains, at its highest level, a conversation between the known and the possible.
—Thierry De Clemensat, Paris-Move and ABS Magazine
Grammy Award–winning trumpeter and composer Charlie Porter returns with Cipher—a project that blurs the line between music and mystery. The eight-track album invites listeners into an immersive experience where sound itself becomes a puzzle to be solved. Hidden within its compositions are nine encrypted musical clues that, once decoded, lead to a real-world treasure worth $10,000.
But Cipher is more than a treasure hunt. It’s a strikingly original statement from an artist who has long explored the meeting point between intellect and emotion. Known for bridging classical and jazz traditions with architectural precision and lyrical depth, Porter has crafted a work that rewards both analytical minds and open ears.
The music itself carries Porter’s signature compositional detail—harmonic adventure, contrapuntal interplay, and rhythmic sophistication—performed by a world-class ensemble that includes Nick Biello (alto saxophone), George Colligan (piano), Garrett Baxter (bass), and Alan Jones (drums). Each track stands on its own as an expressive work of modern jazz rooted in post-bop, while collectively forming an intricate sonic map for those who choose to dig deeper.
For official rules, hunt materials, and additional resources, visit cipheralbum.com.
Artist information and news are available at charlieportermusic.com.
But Cipher is more than a treasure hunt. It’s a strikingly original statement from an artist who has long explored the meeting point between intellect and emotion. Known for bridging classical and jazz traditions with architectural precision and lyrical depth, Porter has crafted a work that rewards both analytical minds and open ears.
“Cipher is my way of uniting deep musical expression with the spirit of exploration,” says Porter. “I wanted to create an experience that pushes beyond listening—an album you can live inside of.”
The music itself carries Porter’s signature compositional detail—harmonic adventure, contrapuntal interplay, and rhythmic sophistication—performed by a world-class ensemble that includes Nick Biello (alto saxophone), George Colligan (piano), Garrett Baxter (bass), and Alan Jones (drums). Each track stands on its own as an expressive work of modern jazz rooted in post-bop, while collectively forming an intricate sonic map for those who choose to dig deeper.
How the Treasure Hunt Works
Listeners can join the challenge by:- Listening carefully to the album (available both physically and digitally).
- Decoding the nine musical clues embedded in the tracks and artwork.
- Using those clues to assemble a map leading to a hidden object redeemable for the $10,000 prize.
Availability
Cipher is available now on all major digital platforms and as a limited-edition physical release.For official rules, hunt materials, and additional resources, visit cipheralbum.com.
Artist information and news are available at charlieportermusic.com.
