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LOTUS BLOSSOM

The Nathan Royal Trio, consisting of Nathan Royal (guitar), Tony Elison (piano), and David Ian Baker (bass), brings a modern twist to the classic jazz trio format. Inspired by the Nat King Cole Trio and Oscar Peterson Trio, the group blends nostalgic swing with chamber music influences, featuring punchy, memorable arrangements and creative reharmonizations. While rooted in the traditional guitar-piano-bass combination, the trio places a stronger emphasis on rhythm and lead guitar, drawing inspiration from legendary guitarists like Django Reinhardt and Charlie Christian. This balancing of voices creates a shared sense of camaraderie that gives the group its unique, ego-free sound.
The guitar takes a more prominent role in the Nathan Royal Trio’s sound, often serving as the primary lead voice. The arrangements blend vintage textures with modern, inventive ideas, developed through spontaneous, in-the-moment rehearsals rather than pre-written charts. While the music features moments of complexity, it is designed to be enjoyed for its joyful, playful energy and accessibility. The album was recorded in a friend’s living room, without soundproofing, embracing the raw, authentic atmosphere of 1940s/50s-style recording. Subtle background sounds, like distant construction, add to the album’s sense of place. Special guests include vocalist Hayley Kirkland and violinist Curtis Woodbury.
"Lotus Blossom" – This beautiful Billy Strayhorn composition, a longtime favorite of Duke Ellington, is reimagined by the trio with a unique twist. The trio embraces the freedom of rubato time on this track, allowing the piece to take on organic storytelling through swells and pauses.
"I Don’t Want to Set the World on Fire" – Originally made famous by The Ink Spots and later immortalized in the video game Fallout, the trio offers a fresh interpretation of this classic. The arrangement builds from the virtuosic violin playing of Curtis Woodbury to a trio of voices, with Nathan Royal on lead vocals and supported by Hayley Kirkland and David Ian Baker, evoking the timeless vocal harmonies of The Mills Brothers.
"These Tears" – This original composition by Vilray, discovered through an Instagram reel, resonated with the trio due to its Billie Holiday-inspired sensibility. It quickly became a favorite and, as far as we know, this is the first and only recorded version of this hauntingly beautiful song.
Their collaborative energy sets them apart, moving beyond the traditional model of soloists stepping in front of a group, instead keeping the focus on the whole ensemble. In an era when constant touring is less common, their approach recalls the spirit of battle-tested jazz groups that had to engage and entertain new audiences daily, delivering both emotional depth and musical excitement.

This album reflects the mission of Hot House West, a non-profit committed to elevating Salt Lake City's music scene as a global center for acoustic music. The trio’s approach is centered on connection, joy, and excellence, combining their unique voices into a cohesive sound with a shared group vision. Rather than aiming to impress or be trendy, their focus is on playing music they genuinely love, with the hope that their passion will resonate with listeners and bring them the same joy.











    1. 1. St. Thomas
      2. C Jam Blues
      3. I Don't Want to Set the World On Fire
      4. Lotus Blossom
      5. How High the Moon
      6. No Moon At All
      7. Dexterity
      8. These Tears
    • Nathan Royal - Guitar, Vocals

      Tony Elison - Piano

      David Ian Baker - Bass, Vocals

      featured guests:

      Hayley Kirkland - Vocals

      Curtis Woodbury - Violin
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