Delbert Anderson creates Diné-inspired musical pathways, preserving his cultural music by creating a foundation of new Diné melodies and fusing them through jazz, jam, and funk.

Band Members:
Delbert Anderson - Trumpet
Robert Muller - Piano
Khalill Brown - Drums
Evan Suiter - Bass

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“By mining traditional Navajo ‘spinning songs’ of love, healing and courtship, and marrying them to jazz and funk lines, Anderson and his trio have taken a place at the forefront of a vibrant Native American jazz scene.” – New York Times

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Delbert Anderson, a Diné jazz trumpeter, composer, and educator, merges Navajo "spinning songs" with jazz and funk, creating a unique sound in the Native American jazz scene. Leading the Delbert Anderson Quartet, he incorporates elements from Diné culture and landscapes into his music. His noteworthy projects include "The Long Walk: 1,674 Days," reflecting on Navajo history, and a forthcoming tribute to Indigenous jazz legends Don Cherry and Jim Pepper. Anderson also spearheads the "Build A Band" program, teaching jazz improvisation to youth, emphasizing Diné values. His work has earned acclaim from Chamber Music America and the First Peoples Fund as well as coverage in The New York Times and NPR.

Robert Muller is a talented pianist and keyboardist based in Santa Fe, NM, known for his versatility across genres from jazz to neo-soul and underground hip-hop. Muller spent his formative years in Portland, OR, growing through mentorship under Blue Note jazz legend Andrew Hill. Post-college, his journey took him to New York City, performing in iconic venues like the Blue Note and the Knitting Factory. Now a fixture on the New Mexico music scene, Muller collaborates with notable artists such as Hillary Smith, Joy Harjo, and Ryan Montaño.

Khalill Brown is a dynamic funk/fusion drummer based in Denver, CO, with roots in the Blackfoot and Cherokee tribes. His musical journey began at the tender age of eight, opening for Ziggy Marley. He has shared stages with renowned acts including Steel Pulse, KRS-One, Snarky Puppy, and Stephen Marley despite overcoming a career-threatening wrist injury. Raised in a family steeped in reggae and Rasta culture, and with extensive experience in drumline and backing bands across hip-hop, jazz, funk, and country music, Brown’s style is a vibrant testament to his diverse upbringing.

Evan Suiter is a seasoned bassist with a repertoire spanning jazz, country, Latin, funk, classical, and rock/pop genres. His formal education culminated in a Bachelor of Arts in music in 2008, followed by invaluable experiences at Victor Wooten's Center for Music and Nature. This background enabled him to share stages with luminaries like Tito Puente Jr., Bob Dorough, and The Drifters. Residing in Albuquerque, NM, Suiter is an integral part of the music scene, currently performing with Chevel Shepherd and the acclaimed Delbert Anderson Quartet. His extensive touring and recording career highlights his versatile talent and commitment to his craft.

This show is supported by KFAI.