Aaron Lebos / Abstract Citizen

Aaron Lebos / Abstract Citizen
Fort Lauderdale, FL
Grant amount: $15,000

About the Artist

Abstract Citizen showcases the greatest qualities that South Florida has to offer. The group channels Miami’s multicultural influence into their original compositions and performs them at the highest caliber. Under the wide umbrella of “modern jazz,” the band democratically composes, arranges, and pushes their music to sound organic, honest, and fresh. Aaron Lebos, an accomplished guitarist and composer, is always curious and hungry for musical growth. Already an established musician in South Florida (touring with Nicole Henry and composing for Nu Deco Ensemble), Lebos looked to the younger generation of Miami’s musicians to bring a new fire to his projects. Thus, Abstract Citizen was formed and spearheaded by four envelope pushing musicians. Bassist Marty Quinn’s sharp attention to groove and the details of each song land him among Miami’s most sought after bass players. A Chicago Native, he brings his love of rock, blues, gospel, and folk into creative musical scenarios. His passion for teaching burns just as bright as performing, lecturing as a full time professor at The University of Miami. Justine Garcia brings her powerful vocals and deep lyricism to add a completely new dimension to Abstract Citizen. Already a successful solo artist, she dives head first into the band’s heavy improvisational performances, adding lush harmonies and effects through vocal processing that make the four-piece band sound larger than life. Brahm Masla is an endlessly creative drummer. After spending most of his childhood in Mexico, he began studying drums and playing hip-hop music. He developed his concept of drums at University of Miami’s jazz program, and blends it with his skills of South American and Afro-Cuban percussion. Abstract Citizen has toured through Florida multiple times, finishing a run through Tampa, Orlando, Jacksonville, and Gainesville in December of 2022. The band is releasing their debut EP in August 2023 and plans to share Miami’s special musical qualities throughout the country.