About Vintage Noise
What’s All the Noise About?
Vintage Noise captures the spirit of cool, blending the swing of jazz with the laid-back rhythms of bossa nova. Based in the San Francisco Bay Area, they bring the swagger of mid-century music to life, reimagined for today. Picture romantically lit lounges, cocktails in hand, and timeless melodies that linger long after the final note.
Led by Michael Carter, whose baritone voice has been praised by The Mercury News as “leading a dynamic ensemble of talented musicians,” Vintage Noise delivers performances that are as effortless as they are captivating.
With weekly appearances at jazz clubs, wineries, and local concerts, Vintage Noise is a rare gem on today’s music scene. Their shows aren’t just performances—they’re invitations to unwind, connect, and savor music that never goes out of style.
A Modern Crooner
Michael Carter embodies the revival of a golden era. Captivating audiences with his smooth, velvety voice, Michael has been hailed by Metro Newspaper as a "latter-day crooner who sings in the style of Sinatra," a title he carries with the kind of effortless charm that would make Ol’ Blue Eyes proud.
Hailing from a multi-generational musical family, Michael’s connection to the stage is as deep as his passion for preserving the timeless art of crooning. Under the mentorship of Bay Area jazz luminary Nate Pruitt of Primary Colors, he honed a voice as rich as fine bourbon and as magnetic as a neon marquee. Inspired by the swing of Sinatra, the sensuality of Jobim, and the charisma of Bennett, Michael’s performances are a celebration of music’s most elegant era, reimagined for today’s audiences.
On any given night, you’ll find Michael enchanting listeners in some of the Bay Area’s finest venues, from swanky lounges to intimate jazz clubs, where the martinis are dry, and the music is anything but. Leading Vintage Noise, Michael transforms each set into a lively soirée, blending charm, humor, and unparalleled vocal finesse. As The Metro notes, "If there's a time for crooning to make a resurgence, it's probably now—it's totally vintage."
A Timeless Duet
Vintage Noise found its unique voice through the remarkable synergy of Michael Carter’s youthful crooning and Ed Johnson’s seasoned artistry on Brazilian guitar. Their collaboration evoked the spirit of Francis Albert Sinatra & Antonio Carlos Jobim, the groundbreaking 1967 album that bridged jazz and bossa nova. Like that legendary pairing, Michael’s velvety vocals and Ed’s masterful guitar work created a sound that was both timeless and refreshingly contemporary—a fusion of elegance and romance that captivated audiences.
Ed Johnson’s contributions, described by AllAboutJazz.com as "what Sergio Mendes began in the mid-1960s," brought a warm and authentic bossa nova sensibility to the group. His seasoned touch not only inspired Michael but also defined the band’s signature style, a blend of sophistication and charm that set Vintage Noise apart.
From Duet to Quartet
Violinist David Boyden added a dazzling flair to the ensemble, his playing brimming with improvisational energy and lyrical grace. Fluid and fiery, his violin lines danced through every arrangement, injecting a vibrant swing that recalled a golden era of jazz when the violin held its own as a lead voice. Complementing David’s expressiveness was bassist Steve Larkin, whose resonant rhythms brought depth and cohesion to the group. With a grounding steadiness and a soulful tone, Steve’s bass work provided the foundation for the band’s melodies to flourish.
Though Ed, David, and Steve have since reduced their activity to focus on other pursuits, their impact and artistry remains the soul of the group. Their legacy resonates in every performance, as Michael continues to carry forward the magic they helped create, ensuring that this golden era of music continues to inspire audiences old and new.