The Michaels/Lah Jazz Consort

           When Lori Michaels and Robert Lah first performed together, they soon realized they just had to establish a serious artistic partnership, thus creating the Michaels/Lah Jazz Consort. The occasional concert and club date have quickly evolved into a round of regular gigs in Albuquerque jazz venues. MLJC is a flexible musical ensemble, performing as a duo, trio, or quartet as needed.

            Lori Michaels’ smooth and sultry vocal style has been a part of the Albuquerque night club scene for several years.  Lori applies her unique interpretation to a wide range of material, including traditional jazz standards, blues, and contemporary pop music.  A talented singer who got her start in New York, she is an excellent entertainer with an engaging personality. Lori has consistently impressed the most fastidious of audiences, both in Europe and the United States, particularly in the Southwest.

            Robert Lah is the pianist-arranger for MLJC. He holds degrees in Music from Chicago Musical College, where he studied piano, cello, music theory, and arranging. He has performed in diverse musical groups, from R&B bands to symphonies, and even appeared in the movie “Around The Bend.”  The former Chicago jazzman has been a leading figure in the Albuquerque jazz community for the last three decades. He has arranged and orchestrated for jazz ensembles, concert bands, chorus, and symphony.

            John Blackburn’s technical virtuosity on acoustic and electric bass is widely recognized and appreciated among jazz afficionados in both Albuquerque and Santa Fe. John has played with an impressive list of name artists, and is a long-time friend and associate of both Lori and Robert.

            Jay Blea is a highly regarded drummer and percussion clinician in the Southwest, and is known for his rhythmic precision, virtuosity, and musical sensitivity. Also a long-time friend and associate, he has collaborated with Robert and Lori on numerous music projects for several years.