Occhi Magazine is thrilled to spotlight the upcoming release from internationally acclaimed guitarist, vocalist, composer, and producer Tony Davis. Hailing from Hartford, CT and now based in New York City, Davis has earned a reputation for his artistry on some of the world’s most prestigious stages, including The Blue Note, The Village Vanguard, Smalls, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and Birdland. His festival appearances span the Newport Jazz Festival and the Greater Hartford Jazz Festival. In 2016, he was recognized as a rising star guitarist at the Wes Montgomery Tribute Festival, where he shared the stage with jazz legends such as Bobby Broom, Peter Bernstein, and Pat Martino.
Now, Davis is set to release his highly anticipated new album, “Jessamine,” on November 14th, 2025. This is more than just an album for Tony Davis—it’s a heartfelt journey back to his roots. The title pays homage to the street where he grew up, symbolizing a return to the origin point of his creative journey. Each track serves as a musical keepsake, echoing the memories, influences, and transformative experiences that have shaped Davis’s artistry.
The sense of home on “Jessamine” runs deep, extending beyond geography to the very musicians who join Davis on this project. Hartford natives Jonathan Barber (drums) and Matt Dwonszyk (bass), both of whom Davis grew up learning and playing music alongside, feature prominently on the album, bringing the story full circle.
The ensemble also includes Chris McCarthy on piano, Matt Knoegel on saxophone (featured on “Trinkets From Mars”), and Daniel Prim on drums/percussion (featured on “Cumbia De Dos Caras”), weaving together a rich sonic tapestry that reflects Davis’s diverse influences.
For Tony Davis, “Jessamine” represents a symbolic homecoming and a full-circle synthesis of his musical and creative life. Davis reflects that the album’s songs are like cherished keepsakes, each one gathered along his journey and rooted in the formative experiences of his early years on Jessamine Street. Growing up in a household filled with music—his parents both acclaimed jazz musicians—Davis was immersed in an environment where artistry and emotional depth were everyday occurrences. The presence of brilliant artists passing through his home left a lasting impression, one whose significance became clearer over time.
With this album, Davis seeks to honor that foundation. He imagines each song as being placed back inside the house on Jessamine Street, reconnecting with the seeds that were planted early on and viewing them through the lens of all he has lived and learned since. “Jessamine” is not just a nostalgic return, but a powerful synthesis of experience, influence, and identity.
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Images provided courtesy of Chris DiGirolamo
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