James Barela

James Barela – Evi and Trumpet

For nearly two decades, James Barela has been at the forefront of modern jazz fusion. His innovative ensemble—originally formed in Las Vegas in the early 2000s under the name BLu7—quickly became a catalyst for exploring the natural intersections of jazz, rock, music technology, and world music.

Though BLu7’s initial run was brief, its creative spirit lives on through Barela’s new quintet, which performs the group’s most popular tunes alongside fresh, original compositions. The ensemble delivers a sound that’s accessible to all audiences, featuring contagious melodies, infectious grooves, and boundless sonic exploration.

Having performed in clubs and festivals around the world, James Barela brings an engaging, genre-blending energy to every performance—equally at home in intimate venues, large festivals, and private events alike.