Jazz Legends: SIMON PHILLIPS • Protocol V feat: Alex Sill, Ernest Tibbs,Otmaro Ruiz & Jacob Scensey

Jazz Legends: Simon Phillips • Protocol V is a high-octane masterclass in jazz-fusion, featuring the legendary, Grammy-nominated drummer and composer Simon Phillips at the Catalina Jazz Club on January, 2026. Renowned for his technical precision and an illustrious career spanning work with Toto, The Who, and Jeff Beck, Phillips brings his most recent evolution of the Protocol project to the stage in a quintet format. This iteration of the band, which debuted on the acclaimed 2022 album Protocol V, showcases a powerhouse lineup of virtuosos including longtime electric bassist Ernest Tibbs, veteran keyboardist Otmaro Ruiz (known for his work with John McLaughlin), and the “fearless” young talents Phillips discovered: guitarist Alex Sill and saxophonist Jacob Scesney. Drawing inspiration from the sonic landscapes of Chick Corea’s Elektric Band and the harmonic complexity of Tony Williams, the performance will feature intricate, unison themes and soaring improvisations, culminating in epic compositions like the 11-minute suite “The Long Road Home.”