About Us

The niche between traditional jazz and the newer contemporary jazz style is seldom noticed. First Take has stepped forward to stake a claim with its own electric jazz concept. Led by keyboardist Tony Palos, the quintet's unusual sound has caught the attention of all types of music fans.

First Take combines the styles of Weather Report, Miles Davis, Claudio Roditi and the Yellowjackets to create a funky, electric sound that still acknowledges the tradition of jazz. To add to the unconventional sound, the lead voice is trumpet as opposed to the more commonly heard saxophone. Tony has also added original music to the group's eclectic mix of tunes, which show the influences of Joe Zawinul, Keith Jarrett, Oscar Peterson, and Hiromi.

"I want to show people that challenging music can also be accessible," Tony explained to one interviewer.

Based in Denton, Texas, First Take was formed in 1995 by Tony and trumpeter Tina Palos. Their goal was to perform artistically challenging music that was also fun to play and listen to. The posititve comments First Take has received from all listeners, as well as the appreciation of musicians, is proving the concept is sound, pun intended.

First Take has been invited to perform at the Bathhouse Cultural Center in Dallas and at the Texas jazz Festival in Corpus Christi.

As First Take gains recognition around the D/FW Metroplex, they hope to show music lovers a style of jazz that is exciting and fun.

"We are living our dream of playing great music and having the audience enjoy it also," Tony says.