The Tough Love Trio is comprised of three exceptionally active musicians in the Boston music scene. Their repertoire consists of standard and contemporary jazz, in the classic lineup of guitar, double bass, and drums. Individually they have recorded and performed internationally with a wide array of diverse artists, and appeared on numerous radio and television programs. Collectively, these assured stylists deliver an elegant, mature, and distinctive brand of jazz that has earned glowing reviews among contemporaries and clients alike. Guitarist Mike Mele and drummer Steve Chaggaris have been members of the Ken Clark Organ Trio for over a decade, and appear on the critically acclaimed CDs 'Eternal Funk' (2003) and 'Mutual Respect' (2005) for the venerable Severn Records label. Mike has also worked with Michelle Willson, Fats Hammond, Rusty Scott, and Myanna. He has studied with Charlie Banacos, Garrison Fewell, and John Damian. Steve has worked with The Soul Band, Colleen Sexton, Michelle Willson, Ran Blake, and Chris Stovall Brown. He has studied with Alan Dawson, Bob Gullotti, and Ian Froman. Bassist Blake Newman is a founding member of the Jeff Robinson Trio, who’ve been a weekly staple at the renowned Lizard Lounge in Cambridge for eleven years. They recorded the CD 'Next On The Mic' (2007) for Rounder Records; their brilliant improvised music accompanying several top performance poets. Blake has also worked with Bruce Katz, David Maxwell, Duke Robillard, Gamelan Galak Tika, and with the distinguished productions of 'Oedipus' and 'OrpheusX' at the American Repertory Theatre. He has studied with Gary Peacock, Charlie Haden and Dave Holland. Blake, Mike and Steve hold Bachelor of Music degrees from Berklee College of Music. - - - - - - -
