Manuel Luz Trio (ML3)

The traditional jazz trio format—piano, bass, and drums—is unique in the musical universe. In the sparseness of this context, each instrument has the room to breathe and express, a stark nakedness which contrasts today’s typically over-produced music. At the same time, it is vitally important to be intuitively interconnected, to fly in formation, to ebb and flow together, and demonstrate mutuality and musical encouragement—for all three pieces must still express the same improvised thought.

Playing in a trio is like dancing on a tightrope. You can fall off at any time, but there is an exhilaration walking so high from the ground.

ML3 is a working experiment of sorts—to take the jazz trio format and interpret my pop music with it. And although I often play as a soloist, this is the format that I typically use when I play with my band. And it’s the most fun too.

I am privileged and honored to be able to play with the following individuals:

STEVE LIBERTI (DRUMS) is an awesome “pocket” player, bringing over thirty years of eclectic experience to our music. Steve is a Certified Vic Firth Drum Set Educator and is a member of the Percussive Arts Society.  Steve plays with a variety of bands locally including Sympozium and the Voxville 5, and regularly plays internationally as a Proclaim International artist. If you would like to support Steve in his role with Proclaim, please visit his website.

MATT SAWHILL (BASSES) describes himself as “naturally funky for a white man.” A Sacramento-area journeyman for 25 years in the church music scene, Matt has played hundreds of shows over the past two decades, and has a number of independent album credits including two of Manuel’s solo albums.

Song Lists

ML3 has three different song lists, depending on the venue.

Originals Song List: This song list covers material from my three released solo albums, which can be accessed through Apple iTunes or on this website.

Jazz Song List: Mostly interpretations of jazz standards. From John Mayer, Sting, Norah Jones and Stevie Wonder to Miles Davis, Dave Brubeck, and Louis Armstrong.

Worship Song List: Steve, Matt, and I lead worship at our respective churches, and we have a passion for leading others into sacred experiences through music. This allows us to play conferences, retreats, and other church events as well.

Get On The Mailing List

To get on our E-List, please e-mail me at manuel@manuelluz.com. THANKS