Scott Chasolen is a native of Wayne, NJ and accidentally began playing the piano by ear at twelve years old. By the time he was 16 he was already performing in clubs in New York City and studying jazz. With a passion for improvising and composition, he later attended The New School in Manhattan while maintaining a hectic lifestyle of creating, touring and recording with the successful instrumental group ulu.
ulu
For 7 years he traveled the countryside from coast to coast and every point in-between, clearly marking his own place within the jam circuit, not to mention developing a stage presence that can reach the nosebleed seats in a small stadium! The use of vintage keyboards such as the Fender Rhodes, Hammond organ, Hohner clavinet and Moog synthesizer have helped to shape his distinctive sound live and on all four ulu albums. Along the way Scott has shared the stage with John Scofield, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Moe., Soulive, Mickey Hart and De La Soul to name a few.
ulu, 1998
Live At Wetlands, 2000
What's the Deal, 2001
Nerve, 2003
Scott has also honed a fine craft of songwriting, using an interesting blend of folk, rock and jazz elements along with introspective lyrics and his own heartfelt vocals. He reveals these abilities on his debut album, "Solitude Speaks", narrating passionate tales of life through a unique perspective. Although the recording featured local friends and musicians Justin Wallace, Sean Dixon, Mark Tewarson, and Sebastian Guerrero, Scott also performs solo for a more intimate and personal experience.
Solitude Speaks, 2003
In a recent collaboration with singer/songwriter Katy Pfaffl, the two have created a bold and boundless acoustic sound all their own. Their poignant and proficient styles intertwine on their album , "Woven," which was released in the fall of 2005.
Woven, 2005
"Magnify" was released in 2007. This collection of memorable songs is both prolific and profound, touching on subjects we all can relate to – childhood memories, sleepless nights, crazy girlfriends, self loathing, home sickness, spiritual growth, and of course the continuing saga of separation and love. Producer/engineer Rob Harari played a large role in the creative process, as well as a cast of musicians including Carlos Alomar on guitar. "Magnify" is rich in texture, driven by Scott's charismatic voice and prowess on the piano.
Magnify, 2007
Along the way, in addition to pursuing his own original music, Scott has performed and recorded with countless acts in the New York City area including The Machine, Stratospheerius, Illuminati, Katy Pfaffl Band, The Chesterfields, Topaz, Zen Tricksters, Robert Matarazzo, Suit of Lights, Michelle Citrin, Splintered Sunlight, Liam Goodwin and the Ramble, Waves of Life, Chris Berry and Panjea, Tiberius, Alex Mitnick and the Kaleidescope Band and many small jazz ensembles.
"Charasmastic keyboardist shines on his solo release! Scott showcases his vocals and songwriting on this album. There's a Ben Folds-like bounce to a lot of the tracks, which percolate with piano-driven, jazzy rhythms and somber melodies. A different side of this talented musician!"
-Homegrown Music Network
"Keyboardist Scott Chasolen is a standout who commands an impressive repertoire of evocative synth voices, in addition to having the ability to get funky on Rhodes, organ, and clavinet."
-Jazz Times Magazine
"Clear, crisp vocals and piano playing that varies in style from jazz to almost classical best define Scott Chasolens Solitude Speaks. Oscillating little from his original starting point, the album stays focused and presents eleven straightforward, likable songs."
-Plug in Music
