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.
Michael Carter embodies the revival of a golden era. Captivating audiences throughout the Bay Area, 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 week, you’ll find Michael enchanting listeners in some of the 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."
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 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.
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, their impact and artistry remains the soul of Vintage Noise. 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.
"Fronted by the rich vocals of crooner Michael Carter, Vintage Noise is a dynamic ensemble of talented musicians from the San Francisco Bay Area. Their music, though mainly jazz and bossa nova, also includes elements of gypsy jazz, swing and tango. Vintage Noise has played in venues throughout Northern California."
- BRANDY MICELI
"Well, if there's a time for crooning to make a resurgence, it's probably now—it’s totally vintage. Latter-day crooner Michael Carter sings in the style of Sinatra. Carter is backed by some great local talent."
- STEPHEN LAYTON
"Just got a chance to listen to your CD, and am loving it!"
- CAMILLE, TALENT COORDINATOR
" Léal Vineyards has had the pleasure of working with Vintage Noise for several years at different events. Michael’s voice exudes a 'new age' Sinatra style of entertainment."
- OVIDIU, MANAGER
"We were fortunate enough to have Vintage Noise play at a winemaker’s dinner for over 120 people. The music complemented the elegant evening and added a sense of class and entertainment to the event. Thank you for helping to create such a wonderful evening."
- KELA, EVENTS & MARKETING COORDINATOR
"I have had the pleasure of having Vintage Noise perform at Cinnabar Winery's wine bar, the Mudd Room. I would not hesitate to hire them for any event, private party, or wedding."
- ANGELA, MARKETING MANAGER
"Known for their fresh takes on 'vintage' classics, Vintage Noise covers bossa nova and jazz songs from the '60s. Some Great American Songbook standards in the band's repertoire include 'King of the Road,' 'Ain’t That a Kick in the Head,' 'Quizás, Quizás, Quizás,' and 'Manhã de Carnaval.'"
"Expanding on jazz standards, Vintage Noise toys with bossa nova, R&B, and even reggae as a way to reinvigorate and reinvent the genre."
- AMULYA DATLA
"Vintage Noise offers incredible music that is so rare these days! Bands like Vintage Noise are hard to find and I am so lucky to have had them play here at the Los Gatos Lodge Hotel. I urge you to consider them for your event! You will not be disappointed!"
- ASHLEY, EVENT & WEDDING COORDINATOR
"We have been very fortunate to have found Vintage Noise! Very pleased to hear them keep 'Sinatra' alive!"
- CINDY
"Ed Johnson composes some of the finest Brazilian music in the world from his home base in Northern California."
- BRIAN SOERGEL
"I have had the pleasure of working with Vintage Noise on a number of occasions at Fremont Hills Country Club in Los Altos Hills, CA. They are professional and efficient. We’ll be asking the duo back and offering an outstanding praise of recommendations."
- ANGELA, MEMBER SERVICES & CLUB EVENTS
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