New Stories

New Stories is a Seattle-based jazz trio led by pianist Marc Seales, featuring bassist Doug Miller and drummer John Bishop. Formed in 1988, the group became a cornerstone of the Pacific Northwest jazz scene, eventually gaining international recognition through their association with Origin Records.

Their sound identity is rooted in post-bop but heavily influenced by the 'cool' school and contemporary classical textures, resulting in a crystalline, high-fidelity aesthetic. Seales, an Associate Professor at the University of Washington, brings an academic precision to his compositions, which often feature complex harmonic structures delivered with a deceptive, lyrical ease. The group is perhaps most famously known in tech circles for the track 'Highway Blues,' which was included as a sample music file in Windows XP, introducing their sound to millions of non-jazz listeners. Critically, they are respected for their work as a rhythm section for legends like Don Lanphere and Bobby Hutcherson, demonstrating a versatility that spans from traditional swing to avant-garde explorations. Their discography, particularly 'Speakin' Out' and 'Remember Why,' is a testament to the enduring appeal of the piano trio in the digital age.