Carl Sonny Leyland – As a child, English-born Carl Sonny Leyland was drawn to the American music he heard on his father’s LP records, quickly developing an appreciation for Dixieland jazz, 1950s rock & roll, and the country music of Jimmie Rodgers & Hank Williams. At age 15 he discovered boogie woogie and was captivated by the sound of the repeating eight-to-the bar left hand pattern. Within months he was performing in public. In 1988 Leyland had the opportunity to come to the USA, later relocating to New Orleans where he was active on the club scene, quickly gaining a reputation for his authentic blues & early rock ‘n roll stylings. In 1997, Leyland relocated to Southern California. By this time his repertoire had expanded to include ragtime & early jazz styles, which enabled him to become part of the traditional jazz scene around Los Angeles & San Diego. In 2003 the Carl Sonny Leyland Trio was formed with drummer Hal Smith & bassist Marty Eggers. Still active in the blues world, Carl Sonny Leyland has also continued his involvement with the rockabilly scene. Whether playing solo or with his trio, Leyland’s music displays an infectious spontaneity, with plenty of surprises for the listener. He pays tribute to the greats of old, but refuses to limit himself, preferring to let each performance be an opportunity to say something new.
