Jim Yanda (b. Oct. 9, 1959 Monticello, Iowa), had his earliest professional experience as a Western Swing guitarist performing in Iowa honky tonks near his family's farm. By high school, Yanda began incorporating the sounds of Eric Clapton, Jimi Hendrix, and the Allman Brothers. During his years at Coe College, the guitarist explored the contributions made by Charlie Parker, Miles Davis, John Coltrane and Pat Martino.

In the past decade Yanda has lived in Chicago and later, New York, where he formed his trio with Phil Haynes and Drew Gress. He composes, performs, and records from his home in New Jersey.

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