The FAR Trio, a dynamic Buffalo-based band blending soul, rock, jazz, and blues, is gearing up for a busy summer with the release of a new single and an extensive tour schedule across the Northeast.
Formed over a decade ago at SUNY Fredonia, the trio — guitarist and vocalist Drew Azzinaro, vocalist Amon Rain, and drummer Ethan Fox — began collaborating in college jazz ensembles. Their shared love for improvisation and wide-ranging musical influences has kept them performing together for over five years, often playing more than 150 shows a year.
“It’s like one hand — the thumb knows how to work with the pointer finger,” Azzinaro said of their musical chemistry. “We think of music as a conversation, and it’s really helpful to have like minds on stage.”
Their new single *Here and Now* drops July 14 and was recorded in Woodstock with producer and engineer Scott Petito, known for his work with music greats like Chick Corea and James Taylor. Petito also worked with the band on their 2022 album “Ordinary Moments.”
“Scott really captures the sound we’re going for. He’s a master,” Azzinaro said. “And it’s wild to think we’re sitting in the same chair as some of our heroes — John Scofield, for example — just mixing and petting his dog.”
The FAR Trio’s name is an acronym of their last names — Fox, Azzinaro, and Rain — but the band also embraces the “far out” sensibility in both their sound and approach. Drawing inspiration from artists like the Allman Brothers, John Lennon, and Bruce Hornsby, the group values both strong songwriting and the freedom to explore and improvise live.
“Lennon’s ability to find depth in ordinary things — that’s something we really connect with,” Azzinaro said. “And the Allman Brothers’ improvisational style resonates with how we express ourselves on stage.”
Their upcoming work reflects an evolving sound. Azzinaro says the new songs lean further into the group’s blues and soul roots. Over the summer, they plan to release a series of singles recorded with Petito, culminating in a full album release in the fall.
Catch The Far Trio live on July 4 at Sunken City Cider in Gilboa, NY, followed by shows across the Finger Lakes, Adirondacks, Hudson Valley, and their hometown of Buffalo. Highlights include a July 13 performance at the Tasting Lab in Greenville, NY, and an appearance at Buffalo’s “Music Is Art” Festival, founded by Goo Goo Dolls bassist Robby Takac.
Image: The FAR Trio are (left to right) Eamon Rayhn Vocals, Bass; Drew Azzinaro – Vocals, Guitar; and Ethan Fox – Drums. (Credit: fartrio.com)