New York saxophonist Abraham Burton's music has been called exquisite jazz. His solos are powerful and creative. He began developing his natural skills by attending Hartford's Hartt School of Music where he learned well from talented artists like Michael Carvin and Jackie McLean. Burton graduated from the school with a B.A. in music and a new love for the work of jazz greats such as Louis Armstrong and Lester Young. In 1992, the young Burton became a member of the Wailers, a jazz band headed by longtime artist Arthur Taylor. The group released two albums together. They also did a number of tours through Europe. Burton left the Wailers by 1994 to form his own band. With pianist Marc Cary, Eric McPherson on drums, and bassist Billy Johnson, Burton released his debut album, Closest to the Sun, in 1994 under the ENJA record label. The group toured Europe many times, performing at the North Sea Festival, the Leverkusen Festival, the Moers Festival, and many others along the way. With his career on a clear path, Burton released his next album, The Magician, in 1996. In 1998, he collaborated with drummer Eric McPherson, bassist Yosuke Inoue, and pianist James Hurt to release Cause and Effect. McPherson, Inoue, and Hurt stayed on for the next album as well, titled Forbidden Fruit. ~ Charlotte Dillon, All Music Guide
