Danny Bastos

What defines a band's sound are their influences and in The Danny Bastos Quartet, the music runs deep in each player.

Danny is the first in his extensive Brasilian family to be born and raised here in America. While most teenage guitarists are learning every Jimmy Page riff or Metallica solo, Danny was always writing, studying and learning as much as he possibly could about music. "There's always something deeper, a different way to approach the basic three chords that are the foundation of music." That desire to learn about music, learn how to read music, learn how to write, communicate and appreciate music on a deeper level is what led Danny to Boston to study at the Berklee College of Music. After graduating, Danny moved to Denver in 2009 and in late 2010, Danny formed the Danny Bastos Quartet. A small jazz ensemble to perform originals, new collaborations, as well as, new improvs and covers. Danny's Brasilian roots and love for American music like Jazz, Blues, Country and Bluegrass, creates a musical canvas for the other members to play with.

Pianist and keyboard player, Zack Markle, got his first piano after he taught himself how to play "Fur Elise". From there, Zack continued his studies playing in the Colorado Community Jazz Association (CCJA) and diving deep into the music of Chopin. You can hear Zack's connection and love for the classical music in any style of music he plays. Zack also collaborates with local Denver Hip-Hop artists as a producer/composer and arranger of Hip-Hop music.

Bass player, Ryan Ellison, is a member of a musical family. Both his parents were musicians in some way and passed the heritage onto Ryan at a young age. Ryan's dad taught him the bass line to "Changes" by Jimi Hendrix and the Band of Gypsys saying, "Someday Ryan, you're going to need to know this song!" Some people have something inside them that can be turned on as fast as light switch and musically, that's Ryan Ellison.

Percussionist, JB, is a Denver local who has been on the scene for over a decade. JB not only plays percussion has been the leader of many Open Mics in the city, as well as, a sound engineer for many of the prestigious local venues. "I'm doing what I want to do. If I'm not performing, doing sound, or recording at least 21 days out of the month, something doesn't feel right." A true player, JB can fit into any band, any role and sound like he's been a longtime member. Some musicians can play grand conciertos, but sometimes all you need are a great set of ears and a desire to go with it.