Alternating smoothly between myriad styles, New Yorker Cutler employs a mellow approach that drenches even the off the wall sections in cool.
Rhythm & blues, soul, funk, roots and jazz. This is the part where the comparisons usually begin. We prefer not to compare. When the lifelong artist/sideman becomes the compare, arranger and leader to showcase his unique style and musical voice, comparisons could not be fair or truly honest. Pure musical expression delivered with honesty and integrity can go a long way in soothing the savage soul.
Born and raised in New York City, Cutler developed a keen interest in the guitar at an early age. Growing proficient, and with confidence, he left for the open road at 19; his first gig being with blues legend Z.Z. Hill. Seeking to push and hone his skills, Cutler also began playing and experimenting with new music pioneers Bobby Previte and Eliot Sharp. He later moved to Woodstock, NY to work with bass master Harvey Brooks, but eventually would return to New York.
As a sideman, Cutler has performed the world over with the greats: Percy Sledge, Eddie Floyd, Wilson Pickett, Fontella Bass and many others. But, not satisfied to be only playing the classics, Cutler is on record with may of the greats of Jazz and Avant-Garde, including: Bill Frisell, David Sanborn, Lester Bowie, Bobby Previte and Wayne Horvitz.
Stew has developed a unique sound, rhythm & blues and avant-garde, melody and noise - avant-blues. A sound all at once old and new, familiar yet unusual.