The musical collective unit known as Vertical Current is comprised of talented artists expressing themselves through original compositions and rhythmically savvy interpretations of contemporary jazz classics.
Watch Vertical Current recorded lived in the WRTI Performance Studio here
Founded in 2009 by Philadelphia-based trumpeter and composer Christopher Stevens as he was pursuing a music degree at Temple University, Vertical Current has traveled the world, performing and recording with an array of celebrated and award-winning artists. Currently, the versatile band has four albums: aRe (2011), Bright Side Of Midnight (2014), After Midnight (2017) and The Future Is Bright (2018).
“The group Vertical Current boasts a horn section that backs John Legend! With that stated, I’m a fan of Chris Stevens and Vertical Current—but not for that reason alone,” explains WRTI Jazz Host and Live Sessions Executive Producer J. Michael Harrison.
“There’s a cohesion and family connection that not every band can tout. Considering that the talented trumpeter’s father, Don Stevens, is the bassist in Vertical Current, it’s no surprise that trust and friendship abound. The result is a captivating band to view and listen to. We were very happy when they agreed to join us for an NPR Live Session in our performance studio. We take delight in sharing Vertical Current with you. Enjoy!"
