Amanda Gardier presents music inspired by the films of Wes Anderson is part of our new Space Exploration Series, which highlights emerging artists in jazz and beyond. Amanda Gardier - Alto Saxophone Dave King - Drums Charlie Ballantine - Guitar Jesse Wittman - Bass   Short Bio: Saxophonist, composer, and educator Amanda Gardier has been described as “a uniquely talented jazz composer and soloist” (Nuvo). With a diverse set of influences including Miguel Zenon, The Bad Plus, Bjork, and more, Gardier is an alto saxophonist who juxtaposes the calmness of lush harmonies and cyclical melodies with the intensity of complex rhythms and fiery improvisation. Her first release with Green Mind Records, Empathy, was “a debut with a lot of something for everyone” (All About Jazz). With her second release, Flyover Country, Gardier “claim[ed] a space among rising saxophonists” (Downbeat) through the display of bold compositions and flexible improvisation. In addition to her work as a bandleader, Amanda is a current member of the US Navy Band Commodores jazz ensemble in Washington DC, where she is regularly featured as a soloist and woodwind doubler.