Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey

Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey is a jazz band from Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA. It is an improvisational trio featuring pianist Brian Haas, drummer Josh Raymer, and bassist Reed Mathis. They originally formed in Tulsa, Oklahoma as a 10-piece band. The only remaining members are Haas and Mathis who formed a trio with Matthew Edwards in early 2000. Brian Haas' brother, Richard also played with the band as a drummer for a period before they found former Ray's Music Exchange drummer, Jason "Jah" Smart. Original drummer and co-founder Sean Layton passed away in 2001. Edwards continues to play with the group from time to time. Despite all of the line-up changes, Jacob Fred has spent the past decade relentlessly touring the U.S. with their unique style of improvisational music. One of the most notable aspects of their music is Mathis’ innovative use of the bass guitar as a lead instrument. Mathis uses a combination of delay, volume swells, and digital octave shifting to take the instrument to new levels. JFJO, or “The Fred,” are well-known for their high energy shows and are often likened to other modern jazz bands such as Medeski, Martin and Wood and The Bad Plus. Their fan base consists primarily of a younger crowd.

JFJO has released thirteen albums, many of which are live recordings. Their album, The Sameness of Difference, was the second JFJO recording to be released by Hyena Records. It was also produced by Joel Dorn, who has produced hundreds of albums by artists such as Chick Corea, Keith Jarrett, and Rahsaan Roland Kirk. Their latest release is titled "Tomorrow We'll Know Today", which is a digital download exclusive. It is available only through iTunes and other digital music retail services.

Note: Midway through 2007, Joshua Raymer replaced Jason Smart as the group's drummer.