Signal Quartet

Signal Quartet is a collective musical ensemble based in Detroit, Michigan consisting of Ben Wolkins on Trumpet and Flugelhorn, Ian Blunden on Guitar, Eric Nachtrab on Bass, and Sean Perlmutter on Drums. Each member composes for the band and contributes a decidedly individual improvisational voice. These varied approaches are the true strength of the band. Signal Quartet is not one thing.

Through their writing for the group, each of the four members inspire empathetic ensemble improvisation from their own vantage point. Nachtrab has a way of making long, complex, or irregular song forms sound simple and inevitable with a lyricism all his own. Perlmutter contributes a pop sensibility, connecting brightly defined islands of melodic material with shifting, sometimes unhinged improvised sections. Wolkins has a highly developed harmonic concept, adding a richness, depth, and detailed logic to the proceedings while Blunden adds an up-to-the-minute take on the state of improvised music.

Signal Quartet wholeheartedly welcome uncertainty and strive for a truly new creation each time they set foot on the bandstand. Their approach to music is one of “letting it all in”; following the thread of the music wherever it leads, regardless of stylistic constraints; embracing the jazz tradition while refusing to shave off or smooth over any of its eccentricities or irregularities.

The band's self-titled debut - consisting mostly of pieces by Nachtrab - was released in August of 2022, and was celebrated with a performance at the Detroit Jazz Festival the following Month. Their sophomore effort,Second Exploration: The Music of Ben Wolkins, (released in April 2023) was promoted by  a Midwest tour, featured as a "new and notable release" on Bandcamp's homepage, and received radio play around the US.  

Approaching, a third release featuring pieces written by all four members was recorded while on tour in 2024 and released later that year. It finds the band in top form, expertly balancing spontaneity and deliberation while navigating a set of of diverse and challenging compositions. After further touring throughout the midwest and east coast, the band has documented yet another batch of eclectic material (again with all four members contributing pieces) on the album Signal 4, set to be released in early 2026.