Rivers
Reggie WatkinsTrombonist and composer Reggie Watkins channels decades of experience, deep Pittsburgh roots, and a spirit of collaboration into Rivers — his fourth studio album and his second for BYNK Records, following Avid Admirer: The Jimmy Knepper Project. It's his first album of all original compositions, performed by his dynamic Pittsburgh-based quartet: Michael Bernabe (piano), Eli Naragon (bass), and Jason Washington Jr. (drums).
The album flows like Pittsburgh's famed rivers, weaving together soulful melodies, adventurous harmonies, and personal reflection.
The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette called it "a dynamic and cohesive post-bop jazz record," reflecting both Watkins' personal journey and the city's rich jazz legacy.
Buy on Bandcamp →First They Came
Reggie Watkins · Live at Carnegie Music HallWhen trombonist Reggie Watkins took the stage at Carnegie Music Hall in Carnegie, PA, he brought something more than music — a response to the times we're living in. What unfolded were three distinct pieces: an improvised drone, a poem reading, and McCoy Tyner's "Contemplation."
What began as a moment for those in the room that night took on new life when a recording revealed a natural arc demanding to be experienced as one continuous 14-minute journey. The centerpiece is First They Came, the poem by Pastor Martin Niemöller (1892–1984), written after World War II as a reflection on personal responsibility and collective silence in the face of oppression.
The video plays much of the piece against a black screen, creating space for the words and sounds to land without distraction — asking listeners to simply be present with what they're hearing, from beginning to end.
Stream Here →
Parker Plays X
Richard X Bennett & Matt ParkerIf you haven't yet, be sure to check out Parker Plays X — a collaborative project between Richard X Bennett and Matt Parker, blending groove, modern jazz, and exploratory improvisation. Richard's compositions challenge and provoke while leaving space for playful tension, wit, and real conversation between piano and saxophone. Released in 2023, the record continues to find new listeners and strong support across platforms.
BYNK Records is expanding — releasing not only full-length albums, but singles and EPs too. Here's a quick look at what's coming.
Richard and Matt recently captured some remarkable sounds at Firehouse 12 in Connecticut. His compositions create space for spontaneous interaction and exploration — more to share as it comes together.
A deeply collaborative project featuring Julio Monterrey (alto sax), Reggie Watkins (trombone), and Matt Parker (tenor & soprano). The Barn blends composition, improvisation, and storytelling.
Creating music means the world to us — but ultimately, it's not for us, it's for you. We'll keep creating as much as we can, doing our part to put something meaningful into the world. If you've enjoyed the music, we'd be grateful if you helped spread the word — share it with a friend, a fellow music lover, or anyone who might need it.
All the best.
Matt Parker BYNK Records · Simsbury, CT · Est. 2013