Steve Berndt – Vocals & Trombone
Fred Paci – Trumpet (11)
Ed Lister – Trumpet & Flugelhorn (2, 3, 8-10)
Brian Asselin – Tenor Saxophone (3, 6, 8-10)
Petr Cancura – Tenor Saxophone (7)
David Renaud – Saxophones (11)
Steve Boudreau – Piano, Rhodes (1, 3, 4, 6-8, 10)
Miguel De Armas – Piano (2, 5)
J.P. Allain – Piano (9)
John Steele – Piano & Guitar (11)
Alex Moxon – Guitar (2, 4, 5, 7)
Don Cummings – Organ (4, 6)
Ken Kanwisher – Bass
Michel Delage – Drums (1-10)
Dave Pontello – Drums (11)
Michel Medrano Brindis – Percussion (2, 5, 7)

Heart of Hearts is a brand new album of songs that explore the themes of love and honesty. The eleven track set contains eight original compositions by celebrated Ottawa singer, trombonist, and bandleader Steve Berndt, along with jazz treatments of three well known pop & rock songs from the 1970’s. While every song is arranged to highlight Berndt’s stunning vocal performance, each piece  also leaves room for instrumental improvisation, showcasing nearly every musician on the record.

The album features complex horn lines weaving together behind powerful melodies and swinging grooves. There is a mix of jazz styles on display, as well a huge range of  instrumental textures thanks to a unique combination of horns and keyboard.

In addition to ten fantastic small group performances, Heart of Hearts also features a piece for large ensemble. Blue Skies On Mars isthe eponymous theme for a fantastic new film set for release in January 2026. Berndt’s piece perfectly sets the stage for the gritty 1970’s set Boston crime drama. The song won Best Original Song at the International Independent Film Awards in Los Angeles.

The band features a who’s who of Ottawa’s vibrant jazz scene: Steve Boudreau on piano, Ken Kanwisher on bass, Michel Delage on drums, Ed Lister on trumpet and Brian Asselin on tenor sax. Guest musicians include Cuban pianist Miguel De Armas, saxophonist Petr Cancura, percussionist Michel Brindis Maduro, guitarist Alex Moxon, & organist Don Cummings.

“…a very likable jazz vocalist with a thoughtful and swinging style along with perfect elocution…He is also an inventive trombonist with a warm tone, and a skilled songwriter and arranger.”

-Scott Yanow

steveberndt.com

Release Date: Friday, January 16th 2026