XBOP was formed in 2012 and utilizes the distinctive improvisational and textural talents of each member. Daniel Carter’s extensive woodwind and brass pallette (clarinet, flute, trumpet, tenor, alto, and soprano sax); the textural and timbral virtuosity of pianist Will Arvo; the articulate and highly creative bass/drums interplay between Jon Roberds and Brandon Miller. All these ingredients create an exciting and unique variety of musical colors.

The quartet is a true blend of sonic possibilities. With a front line of free jazz legend Daniel Carter, and Will Arvo, coupled with a virtuosic prog rock/jazz rhythm section the interplay is truly astounding. Somewhere between Electric Miles meets Weather Report, all through a New York free jazz lens.

Daniel Carter has performed with: Sun Ra, Billy Bang, William Parker, Roy Campbell, Sabir Mateen, Matthew Shipp, Medeski, Martin, & Wood, Sam Rivers, Sunny Murray, Cecil Taylor, David S. Ware, Test, Other Dimensions in Music, One World Ensemble, The Transcendentalists, and many many others.

“Daniel Carter is a passionate and lyrical improviser”
Chris Kelsey

“Alto saxophonist Daniel Carter is an avant-gardist who can also play thoughtfully and with logical development.”
Scott Yanow

XBOP is one of the most enjoyable playing experiences I’ve had since arriving in NYC
back in 1970. Very much looking forward to the next gig! Thanks guys!
- Daniel Carter

In Will’s playing I can hear everything - jazz, blues, rock, classical. One of the most unique and talented musician I know. In everything he plays I can hear infinity.
- Daniel Carter

Will is insanely talented
- Brandon Miller

Brandon and Jon are an amazing team. They don’t just play the music; they drive through it all the way. Very confident in what they are doing and the chops to back it up. Outstanding!
- Daniel Carter

On the road with XBOP

Brandon Miller has established himself in playing with numerous Prog. Rock and jazz bands over the last 15 years. His craftsmanship and highly individual percussion style pulls listeners into the music while still allowing inner abstractions to flourish. Amazing chops and he can swing like crazy.

Playing in XBOP is very exciting and liberating.
- Brandon Miller

Jon Roberds has been a first call bass player in the Philly area for many years. Mostly known as a rock and fusion player, his fretless electric bass has graced numerous projects.
With XBOP Jon is the perfect storm of sophisticated jazz chops and progressive rock sensibility. He is a wonderfully creative musician, with tremendous technique. His playing is always interesting, articulate, and thoroughly compelling.

On the road with XBOP