Bess Jacques & The Strays are a Maine-based band performing a blend of jazz, Americana, and eclectic originals. The band's sound ranges from lush vocal ballads to hard-swinging instrumentals, from pensive to pulsing to pop, for a mix of sounds that is both classic and fresh.
The band: Bess Jacques leads the band on piano and vocals, joined by a rotating selection from Portland's top talent. Current and past Strays include: founding member Kate Campbell Strauss (saxophone), founding member Per Hanson (drums), Tracy McMullen (saxophone), Darren Whitney (saxophone), Asher Barreras (bass), Evan Haines (guitar), Sheldon Perkins (drums), and other beloved local talents.
