
Tino Martinez Saxophonist
Hamilton, Hamilton city, Bermuda | Established. Jan 01, 2019
Music
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The night was a night to remember at the iconic Elephant Room that opened in 1991 in Austin, Texas after excavators discovered “the largest archaeological discovery of mastodon bones west of the Mississippi.” The Bermuda contingent sat comfortably as we watched a long line of patrons eager to enter and hear one of the seven bands listed for 40 minute sets at a total cost of $10 as part of the SXSW Conference and Festivals.
The Tino Martinez Quartette was given a mere 10 minutes to set up their equipment on stage, do a sound check and kick off precisely on the hour. After hearing Allan Harris from New York, Tino and company quickly set the stage. When the audience heard the quartette were from Bermuda you could almost see the puzzlement on their faces wondering if it was going to be a reggae or calypso treat; after all, many Americans still think we are in the Caribbean.
The noisy room soon felt the spell of their opening tactic and went quiet as they warmed up with a very hushed tone of “What You Do For Love.” Dressed in black, Tino Martinez, Troy Washington, Raymond George, and Torrey Tacklyn looked very professional and immediately took command of the atmosphere by flourishing the audience with original songs:
City Lights
Front Street
Jazz Groupiez
Broken Pieces
Bermuda Summers
Dinos Samba
The crowd responded with great applause as they completed each piece. A few too many people walked to the front with their cameras eagerly taking photos and long videos. We were happy to see that happen and just sat back and watched the band go from one song to the other with confidence and a look of satisfaction that a dream had come to fruition after they paid their dues at a variety of Bermudian venues and after weeks of practice.
Seated in the audience was Tino’s father, Terence, and brothers Jordan and Jorge, who were so delighted to see and hear him give a commanding performance and hear each member shine with their solos.
The band demonstrated its versatility by giving us spicy, lively, and memorable songs that added to the Goslings Gingerbeer and Goslings rum that we saw flowing into patron cups all night. The only thing missing with the world premiere of their songs was the Gombeys.
With everyone lured into their musical net and only five minutes left, the sheriff was heard to say before he departed – “I love this version” – as the band closed the deal highlighting a giant in the music industry, Bob Marley: “I Shot the Sheriff.” It was done. They had reached the pinnacle, or as we say in Bermuda: “dem byes were great.”
A bright light had awakened all elements in the Elephant Room: The Tino Martinez Quartette legacy was now cemented in America. Oh, Bermuda, we are so lucky to have them.
The performance of the Tino Martinez Quartette has sealed their future locally and, based on comments heard after the event, I have no doubt that they will be invited to additional international events, so get ready to support them financially and with your attendance. Once again, from academics to sport and music, Bermuda is on the worldwide stage receiving applause. AYO! AYO! Tino Martinez Quartette, we are proud of you. - Dale Butler
A few years ago when I did the first review of the Tino Martinez Quartette or [TMQ], I predicted they were destined for greatness because of their collective talent, knowledge, and expertise. Tino, the lead saxophonist and face of the group, received the 2022 Bermuda Best Musician Award. With him in their pocket, the band has been sojourning at Blue Waters Anglers’ Club, The Deep/Lido, Leopards’ Club; as well as other local venues and private events where they have stamped the Bermuda music scene with top-notch jazz standards. Since receiving news of their acceptance in the South by Southwest Conference [SXSW] in Austin, Texas, which started in 1987, they have been busy preparing, in hopes of taking their sound beyond Bermuda’s twenty-four square miles.
Once I confirmed they were accepted I booked my ticket! I never had the opportunity to see the Talbot Brothers, Hubert Smith, Burning Ice, Charles Michael Clarke, or The Strollers perform overseas, so it was critical that, as the Professor of Music in Bermuda, I add to my resume of international events—two of which I developed and orchestrated: two bands performing in the Havana International Jazz Festival [2009] and Giant Steps [2016]. I’m pleased to report both groups did extremely well.
This is my first attendance at the prestigious SXSW Conference, which has been billed as “…the premier destination for creatives across the globe.” Speakers, artists, and filmmakers are attracted to this event. As stated in their PR campaign it has grown “…into a premiere launching point for up-and-coming music acts, under-the-radar movies, and burgeoning tech startups … [T]he biggest names in entertainment and tech now flock here each year as well.”
There are over 450 sessions: Creative Industries Expo, Flatstock Art Exhibition, Startups, and Health and Med Tech, to name just a few; plus 25 Annual Innovation Awards, Best in Show, People’s Choice, Community Service Awards, and Hall of Fame Inductions—everything a creative needs is here. We look forward to learning a great deal and networking. Who knows what will originate from this small step?
The band arrived at The L.F. Wade International Airport with a bag full of original music, and I can’t wait to hear them at the Elephant Room on Thursday night. The camaraderie they share sets the tone for a vibrant future together: something which is vital for Bermuda’s bands if they are desirous of creating an authentic music legacy.
When asked what their expectations are they were enthusiastic about the journey:
Tino Martinez, tenor saxophonist shared: “From the atmosphere to the music, I’m looking to take it all in and showcase our repertoire of original music to the world.”
Torrey Tacklyn, bass guitarist: “Networking. I’m excited about the exposure and seeing friends.”
Troy Washington, drummer: “I’m looking forward to having a great show.”
Raymond George, pianist: “I know we’ll do our best.”
With the smooth trip behind us, the band excited and eager to perform; and supportive family in tow, I’m looking forward to hearing the Tino Martinez Quartette make Bermuda proud. With over 150 bands performing, throughout the week, my background in music will continue to grow. No doubt, questions about reviving our once illustrious Jazz Festival will emerge again, and if it was ever revived, I know TMQ would be ready to lead the way.
- Dale Butler has now added to his list of Bermuda music accomplishments by including his first overseas review of the Tino Martinez Quartette who are ready to perform at the SXSW event Thursday night. - Dale Butler
The Tino Martinez Quartet will be the first Bermudian band to storm South by Southwest.
“It still feels like a dream,” said Raymond George, the band’s keyboardist.
After attending last year’s National Association of Music Merchants convention and learning a thing or two about marketing, Tino Martinez decided to “throw it out there” and send a press kit, pictures and videos of TMQ to SXSW.
“I’ve been trying to get into this festival over fifteen years ago, and we’ve all tried to be a part of it. In December, we got a standby, and not even a month later, we were confirmed,” said Mr Martinez.
The quartet of musicians came together around four years ago.
“It was just a phone call, and the next thing we are here,” said Mr Martinez, who is the band’s saxophone player.
The SXSW music festival takes places from March 11 to 16 in Austin. Approximately 1,200 artists are performing.
The quartet started off as a soul fusion group, and through the years has found itself playing a bit of everything, from hip hop to contemporary pop.
“Jazz is always the centre of what we are doing,” Mr George said.
Troy Washington Sr, the band’s drummer, is excited about the line-up.
“I’m just happy to go represent the country and this where we have taken off to a whole other level and this is the start of some great things,” said Mr Washington, who is originally from Boston.
Torrey Tacklyn, TMQ’s Bermudian bass player, echoes the sentiment.
“Representing my country makes me feel like I’ve done something, like I can give back to and shine a light on what this little island can do, especially with all that talent that is going to be,” he said.
The quartet hopes SXSW is a springboard for success.
Mr Martinez hopes the event will be a “launching pad” for the group to perform at jazz festivals globally.
“Torrey said we are showcasing our original music, our originality, our creativity and the music we have is mind blowing. It’s some good stuff.
“Ray has put in some good work, the guys have put in some good working learning it and putting their touch to it.
“The cool thing about our originals, they are all named after something in Bermuda – so when you see the track list when we do release it, you will be like, city lights, front street,” said Mr Martinez without giving too much away.
The band plan to fly out from Bermuda on March 11 and stay in Austin until March 17. They have set up a GoFundMe to assist with travel and accommodation expenses, which they estimate to cost $10,000 for their trip.
The Tino Martinez Quartet will be performing at SXSW on March 14 from 9pm to 9.40pm at the Elephant Room. - Hayley Morrison
A Bermudian jazz band is set to join international talent performing at this year’s South by Southwest music festival.
The Tino Martinez Quartet was recently listed as a “Showcasing Artist” for the 2024 SXSW Music Festival, scheduled to take place in Austin, Texas, between March 8 and 16.
Other artists and bands set to take the stage at this year’s festival include Bootsy Collins and The Black Keys.
In a recent Facebook post, the group said: “What an incredible honour and privilege it is to be able to grace this world-class stage alongside talented artists from all over, while proudly representing Bermuda.
“Words cannot express the overwhelming excitement and joy that our quartet is feeling right now. This opportunity is a dream come true for us, and we are beyond grateful for the chance to showcase our music on such a prestigious platform.
“SXSW is renowned for its celebration of diverse musical talent, and to be recognised as a part of that is truly humbling. We cannot wait to bring our unique blend of sounds and rhythms to the festival and share our passion for music with the world.”
The group thanked its supporters and promised to deliver an “unforgettable performance that will make you proud”.
The SXSW website described the band as a “force to be reckoned with”.
It added: “Comprised of talented musicians from diverse backgrounds, their collective artistry has captivated Bermuda for the past five years.
“With an unwavering dedication to jazz and jazz fusion, the TMQ has successfully merged these two genres, creating a musical experience that is unparalleled.
“Their exceptional skill and passion for their craft have sparked a resurgent interest in jazz throughout Bermuda, leaving an indelible mark on the local music scene.” - Owain Johnston-Barnes
Musician: Tino Martinez, Saxophonist
The judges felt passionately about Tino Martinez and his saxophone for best musician, infusing the culture of jazz back into the Bermuda music scene. Look out for his signature Soul Sessions with the Tino Martinez Quintet, to catch the powerfully smooth sound of his saxophone. A true master of his craft, Tino’s passionate playing can get anyone up off their feet! To ensure you don’t miss any upcoming performances, check out @tmq.bda - Jessica Petty
Terence “Tino” Martinez was shocked to discover he’d been named Bermuda’s best musician. - Jessie Moniz Hardy
“The Bermudian Magazine in selecting the best musician stated: “The judges felt passionately about Tino Martinez and his saxophone for best musician, infusing the culture of jazz back into the Bermuda music scene. - Dale Butler
If you’re looking to unwind in the presence of live music, the 2022 Best of Bermuda award winning musician, Tino Martinez will be performing in jazz lounge pop-up sessions at the BMDS theater. You can expect the talented quintet to take you on a musical journey showcasing their modern jazz fusion in RnB, neo-soul, hip hop, reggae and more. -
On Saturday, June 26th, under new Covid regulations, The Tino Martinez Quintet comet struck the Blue Waters Anglers’ Club on East Broadway with a ball of fire that excited two packed sessions with a variety of new songs that moved away from the traditional Bird, Miles, Monk, Coltrane and Ghandi Burgess genre of well-known and ageless hits. - Dale Butler
News Release: HAMILTON, Bermuda – This Saturday, (May 22), the Department of Culture will once again host the popular ‘Creatives Live!’ concert series, featuring the Tino Martinez Quintet on the City Hall steps. -
“We played throughout Texas, Louisiana, Colorado and California on self-promoted tours. I’ve [also] been a member of the horn sections in third wave ska, reggae, neo-soul and jazz bands, as well as the house band on Sundays at the Red Cat Jazz Café in Houston. - Heather Wood
Tino Martinez is a Bermudian musician and part of the Martinez quintet. Other members are Torrey Tacklyn, Raymond George, Troy Washington, and Dino Richol. Mr. Martinez told us about his passion for soulful jazz music, the importance of the history of jazz, and his band's concert.
Kendal Trott reports. - Bermuda Broadcast
Tino Martinez
2022 Best of Bermuda Musician
For the past four years Tino has been the frontman of the Tino Martinez Quintet, the jazz band he formed with Dino “Richie” Richol, Raymond George, Torrey Tacklyn and Troy Washington. Prior to that he'd played with several groups, and most recently was a member of DIA. He was nominated and won Bermuda Best Musician in 2022. Tino infuses the culture of jazz back into the Bermuda music scene. Look out for his signature Jazz Nights at The Loren with the Tino Martinez Quintet, to catch the powerfully smooth sound of his saxophone. One of their regulars in the audience is veteran jazz musician and teacher Wendell “Shine” Hayward. “He comes to all our shows and gives us advice all the time,” Mr Martinez said. “He tells us to keep up the great work and stick with it. He always says ‘keep it saxy’.” - Tony Brannon
It was a homecoming for me to return to Café Lido after retiring five years ago from MEF Limited. I spent 20 years there as a director and received an exemplary education on the real qualities needed to offer excellent cuisine, food, and service. It was a joy to be back for a night of outstanding entertainment and delectable food in one of the few remaining entertainment centres: The Deep, located at 60 South Shore Road, Paget.
With Hurricane Philippe threatening Bermuda, Lido experienced a few wind gusts and spitting rain on Thursday, October 5th, but patrons were unfazed and attended, eager to hear Gita Blakeney with the Tino Martinez Quartette, who wasted no time delighting us with a wide selection of songs. Lido already has a solid Friday night foundation with entertainers like DJ Felix, Ben Payne, Jessie Seymour, and Kassie Caines, making it the place to be.
My evening started with dinner. The regular menu is available, but I gravitated towards the Chef’s Tasting Menu; $65 plus service charge. One can add wine pairing for an additional $50. Management know their wines and have an extensive selection, so this is a real bargain. With three appetizers offered, I broke from my normal pattern and tried the Autumn Bowl; organic beetroot, baby spinach, green beans, orange segments, almonds, cumin seeds and tahini. I was not disappointed.
Wine options included:
Etna Bianco ‘Santo Spirito’ Terre Nere, Sicily
Sauvignon Blanc “Bel Echo, Clos Henri, Organic, NZ.
There were four entrées, also with wine pairing:
Risotto Alla Pescatora
Lamb Roast which I selected and enjoyed with absolutely delicious Braised Lentils, Charred Broccolini and Rosemary Aioli
Beef Short Ribs
Asparagus Ravioli
I enjoyed the bread basket and the chef’s special butter.
This time around, when it came to dessert, I avoided the carrot cake which I have always craved and, instead, went with the apple pie and rum and raisin ice cream. No regrets! Dining in such a beautiful restaurant overlooking the stunning South Shore, with superb service, great plating and delicious food, the mood was set for entertainment.
In the adjoining Deep entertainment centre, The Tino Martinez Quartette wasted no time with an excellent selection of songs that demonstrated their broad repertoire from an earlier review I wrote on June 26, 2021. With two regular members not available, Stefan Furbert in the supreme realm of Bermudians Clarence “Tootsie” Bean, Syke Laws, Ronnie Lopes, the Leader family and more, did an excellent job as drummer.
Climbing the mountains to solo with resounding applause were:
Award winning Tino Martinez [Best in Bermuda 2022] as I stated “a master of his craft” on tenor sax
Torey Tacklyn – bass
Raymond George – keyboards
These musicians are professionals ready for any festival worldwide with songs like:
Midnight Voyage
Straight No Chaser
Mo’ Better Blues
Lil Darlin’
St. Thomas, to name but a few.
From the very first song, the band branded the night with a torrent of excellence building high expectations for the absolutely stunning and ageless Gita Blakeney who paid homage to her parents and ignored mentioning her three, Best of Bermuda Awards and a VIP Excellent Award as she used her stage presence to lure us into songs like:
One Note Samba
Nearness of You
L-O-V-E
Our Love is Here to Stay
Smooth Operator
Can’t Take My Eyes Off You
Usually an 8pm to 11pm concert is enough, but the audience was hungry and appreciative for this complete night of delicious food, great service and music and in an atmosphere currently being rebuilt around the island. Lido has it all making it “A Love Supreme” [John Coltrane, 1964].
Bermuda is blessed to have so many talented performers. I will be going back. Gita Blakeney and The Tino Martinez Band will be performing at The Deep at Lido on Thursdays during the month of October [8 p.m. to 11 p.m. and general admission is $35 with VIP admission $55], Silvery City on Fridays and a weekend brunch Saturdays and Sundays along with pizzas and happy hour specials are offered.
It is recommended that you purchase your performance tickets via website Gpass and make reservations for lunch/dinner by calling 236-9884.
- Dale Butler is the Professor of Bermuda Music. He writes a variety of reviews for Bernews and can be contacted at 595-9841 or daledbutler@gmail.com - Dale Butler
The Tino Martinez Quartette, just back from the SXSW Music Festival, in Austin, Texas, wasted no time in performing at Lido at Elbow Beach on Thursday nights and arranging a “Thank You” free concert at Victoria Park on Sunday, April 14th from 4 to 7 p.m, which featured many highlights from guest singers and the band. With all sound checks in place, an opening prayer was given by Letitia Washington followed by The St. Paul A.M.E.C. Praise Team, Joy T. Barnum, and Cindy Smith. While some felt concerned about an outdoor concert in April, the weather was perfect and the crowd came prepared with chairs and enjoyed every second of the show. Well done – Tino [saxophone], Raymond George [piano], Troy Washington [drums] and Torrey Tacklyn [bass], with special guest Marvin Pitcher [organ]. You keep setting the standard high and are quenching our thirst for local entertainment. - Dale Butler
The Tino Martinez Quartette, just back from the SXSW Music Festival, in Austin, Texas, wasted no time in performing at Lido at Elbow Beach on Thursday nights and arranging a “Thank You” free concert at Victoria Park on Sunday, April 14th from 4 to 7 p.m, which featured many highlights from guest singers and the band. With all sound checks in place, an opening prayer was given by Letitia Washington followed by The St. Paul A.M.E.C. Praise Team, Joy T. Barnum, and Cindy Smith. While some felt concerned about an outdoor concert in April, the weather was perfect and the crowd came prepared with chairs and enjoyed every second of the show. Well done – Tino [saxophone], Raymond George [piano], Troy Washington [drums] and Torrey Tacklyn [bass], with special guest Marvin Pitcher [organ]. You keep setting the standard high and are quenching our thirst for local entertainment. - Dale Butler
Discography
Still working on that hot first release.
Photos



Bio
Tino Martinez is a talented bandleader and tenor saxophonist who earned the esteemed Best of Bermuda Award in 2022, highlighting his exceptional musical abilities. His passion for jazz ignited during his middle school years when his music director introduced him to the captivating world of jazz and formed the school's first jazz ensemble. After high school, Tino furthered his musical education at Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where he immersed himself in various musical groups, including the Southern University Human Jukebox Marching Band, concert bands, wind ensembles, saxophone ensembles, and jazz ensembles. Under the guidance of distinguished mentors such as Dr. Issac Greggs, Lawrence Jackson, and Carnell Knighten, Tino honed his skills and expanded his musical repertoire to include genres from jazz and neo-soul to reggae, ska, punk rock, and classical saxophone. Before making Bermuda his home, Tino toured successfully across states like Texas, Louisiana, Colorado, and California. His unwavering dedication to music and remarkable artistry have established him as a prominent figure in the industry. Tino's band TMQ, has earned and recognized as the best musical group in Bermuda for 2024 and a featured artist at SXSW 2024.
Under Musical Direction of the TMQ, is Raymond George, a versatile keyboardist, pianist, and music director hailing from the vibrant Greater Toronto Area. Raymond earned a Bachelor of Music from the prestigious University of Toronto, where he studied under renowned instructors like William Aide, Larysa Kuzmenko, and Brainerd Blyden-Taylor in choral music. His musical prowess has garnered accolades such as the Lloyd Bradshaw Prize and an Ontario Service Award for his outstanding contributions to choral music and community music direction. With a rich musical background traversing genres like jazz, gospel, rock, choral music, and piano performance, Raymond has performed internationally, touring England and Canada for three years as a pianist and keyboardist. On bass is Torrey Tacklyn, an accomplished musician skilled in both bass guitar and sound engineering. With more than ten years of experience as a Pro Audio Engineer, Torrey has recently launched his own PA rental business, "One Soulution Music." His expertise in sound engineering is complemented by his talent as a bassist, contributing to various musical projects. Torrey Tacklyn's commitment to his craft and versatility as both a bassist and sound engineer make him a dynamic presence in the music scene.
Band Members
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