WEEDS/GESTRIN/RUD/ARAI celebrate 25 Years

Founded in 2001 by saxophonist, producer, and impresario Cory Weeds, Cellar Music Group celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2026. Over the past quarter-century, the Vancouver-based label has released more than 400 albums and earned an international reputation as one of North America's leading independent jazz labels.

When Thankfully was released in 2001, neither Ross Taggart nor Weeds could have known it would become the album that launched Cellar Music Group. Recorded live during The Cellar's first year, it captured a pivotal moment in Vancouver jazz history and remains a testament to Ross's lyrical, swinging, and deeply personal artistry.

For these special performances, surviving quartet members Mike Rud (guitar) and Bernie Arai (drums) reunite with Cory Weeds (tenor saxophone) and Chris Gestrin (organ) to celebrate the music and legacy of Thankfully.

To mark the occasion, Cellar Music Group will release a limited-edition, hand-numbered 180-gram blue double-vinyl pressing of Thankfully. Only 200 copies will be produced and available exclusively at these performances.

This performance is part of VanJazz26