Review: The Tino Martinez Quartette
[Written by 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.
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