Trumpeter/UWEC grad Keith Karns and his band are set to release their debut CD, Thought and Memory.

Former UWEC Jazz I trumpeter Keith Karns is returning to his roots to debut his new band and album. Based out of Indianapolis, the Keith Karns Big Band plays mostly original works and arrangements by Keith himself. 

The band’s debut/CD release tour will bring them through the backstage of The State Theatre. Their sound is contemporary, while remaining true to the roots of big band. The band’s new CD, Thought and Memory, came out on May 1. 

“I’m really pumped about the CD release and our tour,” said Karns. “The album sounds awesome and we had so many talented people work on it, so I can’t wait to get that out there. We’re playing some really great venues, but the three that I am most excited about are at Jazz Central in Minneapolis on May 3rd, the State Theatre in Eau Claire on May 5th, and the Blue Wisp in Cincinnati on May 13th. I think we’re going to have a great turnout and I’m pumped to get this music out there!” 

See Karns’ band at The State Theatre on May 5 at 7 p.m. Admission is $5 and open to all ages. Find out more at KeithKarnsMusic.com.