Biography

Chives represents the collective musical output of bassist Matthew Wohl, multi-reedist Steven Lugerner and drummer Max Jaffe. Their music is a continuation of the jazz trio continuum - yet Chives’ repertoire is heavily influenced by the world of songwriting. Their third recording, Dads, was released on Primary Records in August 2012 to critical acclaim.

Chives is not only a platform for fluid improvisation and composition but a story of common experiences, aesthetic intentions, and beginnings. Born between 1987 & ’88, Chives each have Jewish roots from their fathers with Australian (Wohl), Mexican (Lugerner) & Korean (Jaffe) roots from their mothers. They grew up together in Burlingame, California surrounded by peers and teachers that nourished their musical sensibilities. They have collaborated together in various settings since middle school for a total of thirteen years - more than half their lives. After recording their debut self-released album Arnold, Chives collectively relocated to Brooklyn, NY. During their first two years in New York, Chives produced and released For Brian Wilson on the Primary Records label. Often confused to be a tribute to the Beach Boys, For Brian Wilson is actually a dedication to the San Francisco Giants, specifically their closing pitcher Brian Wilson. Dads, their third and most current studio album is another dedication, this time to the men who introduced them to the beautiful game of baseball; Steve Wohl, Jeffrey Lugerner & Mark Jaffe.