w/ Orrin Evans (piano), Nimrod Speaks (biass), Mekhi Boone (drums), Willie Morris III (tenor saxophone)
The Painted Bride proudly presents Still We Dream, the latest project by Grammy-nominated trumpeter and composer Josh Lawrence, as the culminating event in the 2025 Satellite Sound jazz series—a citywide tribute to the curatorial legacy of J. Michael Harrison, host of The Bridge on WRTI.
Lawrence’s deep-rooted connection to the Bride dates back to 2012, when he co-founded the Fresh Cut Orchestra, premiering original works in a sold-out performance at the Bride’s Vine Street venue. That concert launched the group’s acclaimed debut album From the Vine, featuring Lawrence’s Uptown Romance alongside multi-movement compositions by Jason Fraticelli and Anwar Marshall. Born and nurtured at the Bride, the project was supported from its earliest stages by Harrison himself.
Now, more than a decade later, Lawrence returns to the Bride’s orbit to premiere Still We Dream—a visionary new project that explores the space between jazz and classical tradition, memory and imagination, personal reflection and collective transformation.
Joined by an all-star quintet—Willie Morris III (tenor sax), Orrin Evans (piano), Nimrod Speaks (bass), and Mekhi Boone (drums)—Lawrence unveils daring arrangements of works by Thelonious Monk, Frédéric Chopin, and J.B. Arban, interwoven with original compositions and thematic meditations on resilience, beauty, and the American ideal reimagined through sound. Read Lawrence’s artistic statement here.
A fitting crescendo to a series grounded in mentorship and musical innovation, Still We Dream honors both Lawrence’s creative evolution and the shared vision of Harrison and the Bride. Join us at the Black Squirrel Club for this unforgettable finale—where legacy meets imagination, and the dream continues.
A three-time Grammy nominee, Lawrence has released five acclaimed solo albums on Posi-Tone Records and co-led two with Fresh Cut Orchestra on Ropeadope Records. His recent nominations include contributions to Captain Black Big Band (Smoke Sessions) and Legacy by Adam Blackstone. Known for his stylistic versatility and compositional depth, Lawrence has recorded with artists ranging from Erykah Badu, Boyz II Men, and Jazmine Sullivan, to Laurin Talese, Brian Marsella, Tarbaby, and more—firmly establishing himself as a leading voice in contemporary jazz.
Black Squirrel Club offers a full bar with an excellent draft selection and delicious signature cocktails. We do not serve food, but you are welcome to bring your own or have it delivered once you arrive.
Reserve Paid Parking Here (lot 1 block from venue)
There is also free parking available at the Rivers Casino parking lot (3 blocks)