Dave Williams and MBT | Long Beach Jazz Funk
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“If you like cats who play real music, then MBT is for you.” – Dave Williams
Biography
MBT is a dynamic jazz funk band from Long Beach, CA, led by trumpeter Dave Williams. The innovative artist, composer, producer, and bandleader is known throughout the city amongst avid jazz enthusiasts, underground audiophiles, and lo-fi aficionados. Equally, he has been embraced by influential civic leaders and local media including the Long Beach Post, Palacio Magazine, and VoyageLA. In 2020, Williams’ photo was displayed prominently at an intersection for a campaign promoting vibrance and diversity, launched by the Downtown Long Beach Alliance. For over a decade, he has been likened to 1970’s-era Miles Davis–in method, music direction, and mark.
MBT
Dave Williams’ band name is memorable and metaphoric, representing the impossible. The original name ‘MajicBulletTheory,’ was inspired by his desire to assemble a new first-rate band. Simultaneously, he had intention, new musical ideas to express, and needed players to fulfill his vision for music that could transcend expectations, much like a magic bullet. Previously, in an interview with Long Beach Voices, Williams recalls saying he wanted to bring all these people together to do what he wanted to do, and it happened. Rightly so, it is the combined 40+ combined years of musicianship, live instrumentation, and DJ cuts and scratches that truly sets MBT apart.
Building on Williams’ growing presence in the community and the independent release of their 2011 debut studio album, “Paradigm Shift,” Williams and MBT have garnered loyal fans. A rise in support followed the release of their second album, “Supernatural Selection,” in 2017. “Sophisticated Voltron” and “Vindaloo” are classic MBT crowd favorites.
Live Music Scene
Showcasing original music and covers, MBT performs at acclaimed venues throughout Long Beach and Los Angeles. Venues include: Harvelle’s, Sky Room, Roscoe’s Jazz Lounge, The Queen Mary, Willmore Wine Bar, The Mint, Kaos Network, and The World Stage in Leimert Park—the same venue that nurtured Kamasi Washington’s early sets. The funky jazz crew also enjoys frequent collaborations with local soul crooner and singer-songwriter, Chad Bishop, and blues artist, ShyButFlyy.
New Music Coming Soon
Presently, the band is completing their highly anticipated new album, “2 Mellow 4 Saturday Nite,” to follow their 2022 EP, entitled “Different Standards, Too.” Beyond his musical achievements, Dave Williams is also a proud United States Army Veteran who has earned his respect on and off stage.
Finally, with his signature trumpet in hand, you’ll often hear Dave Williams and MBT call out a phrase that embodies the band’s ethos and energy: “We Love This Sport!”
Band Members:
Dave Williams: Bandleader, Trumpet
Patrick Butler: Guitar
Damien Smith: Drums
Arturo Ramirez: Drums
Jose Ramirez: Baby Bass
Ellen Burr: Flute
Bongo Jim: Percussion
Scott Dibble: Keys
S.O.U.L.-O.: DJ
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