Born in Indiana and raised for the most part near Lexington, Kentucky, bassist Kevin Tkacz (pronounced “tax”) came into his own as a jazz artist in the exploratory urban environment of Chicago. He has made a mark on the cutting edge of the New York jazz scene, working with Paul Motian, Ralph Alessi, Bill Carrothers, Michael Sarin, Liberty Ellman, Angelica Sanchez, Matana Roberts, Ellery Eskelin, Gerry Hemingway, Dewey Redman, Russ Lossing, Gerald Cleaver, Kris Davis, and Eri Yamamoto. In parallel to his invaluable sideman experience, Tkacz has nourished an inquisitive, compelling voice as a leader and composer with two recordings to date. He resides in the Bronx with his wife and their cat, Mouse, and generally keeps a low profile.
Photos by Alison Hovey