What's all the Noise?
Vintage Noise features vocalist Michael Carter, guitarist Ed Johnson, bassist Steve Larkin, and violinist David Boyden. The four-piece combo has become synonymous with lush vocals and gentle strings, blending timeless jazz and exotic sounds of bossa nova. Vintage Noise has won over audiences throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. The Metro Newspaper acclaims "Latter-day crooner Michael Carter sings in the style of Sinatra”, All About Jazz praises "Johnson's music is what Sergio Mendes began in the mid-1960s", and the Mercury News hails “Vintage Noise is a dynamic ensemble of talented musicians from the San Francisco Bay Area”. While Vintage Noise is largely known for their emotive renditions of both classic Brazilian songs and jazz standards, they often surprise listeners with violin-inflected selections of gypsy jazz, tango, and even country pop. Their performance creates a rare atmosphere sure to have an intensely personal meaning for every listener.
About Us
David Boyden
While violin is noticeably absent from jazz quartets rooted in the Sinatra genre, audiences of all ages have come to love David’s vibrant improvisational sound. A graduate of San Francisco State University, David's style is frequently compared to Stéphane Grappelli and Stuff Smith. In addition to performing with Vintage Noise, David can be regularly heard with a array of ensembles rooted in the music of Django Reinhardt, and bands dedicated to exploring Scandinavian music, and other folk genres.
Ed Johnson
With seven recording projects and multiple producer’s credits, Ed's mastery of the Brazilian genre has won over fans and airplay worldwide. Ed's road into the life of a musician was a natural progression. His mom often played piano and sang standards while his dad would 'scratch' along on the fiddle or the ukulele. Ed also plays his original compositions with Nova Tempo, a Brazilian jazz ensemble.
Steve Larkin
In addition to being a first-rate soloist, Steve Larkin has played in settings ranging from small combo to big band. Performing professionally since the age of 15, Steve has accompanied numerous greats including Ernie Watts, Mundell Lowe, and Lew Soloff. Steve's exceptional performing career has been highlighted by performances at the Kuumbwa Jazz Center in Santa Cruz, Levi Stadium in Santa Clara, and Top of the Mark in San Francisco.
Michael Carter
Michael is the fourth-generation manifestation of a musical family and received his first voice lessons from his grandfather, Harry Carter, an accomplished musician and recording artist. He later studied under two of the San Francisco Bay Area's legends – vocalist Nate Pruitt, and pianist and composer Arthur Junker. An unforgettable, enchanting performer, Michael has headlined iconic venues such as the Fairmont in downtown San Jose, the Mudd Room in Saratoga, Wente Vineyards in Livermore, and Yoshi's in San Francisco.