Reno jazz trio connects variety of music styles

Fiscus performs at Plan:b Micro_Lounge from 8-11 p.m., Saturday.

The jazz trio, comprised of Zack Teran on upright bass, Chris Clark on tenor and alto sax and Jesus Vega on drums, all met at University of Nevada, Reno's jazz department where they were all studying.

"We started hanging out, liked each other and so put Fiscus together about 18 months ago," said Teran. "We all play in other ensembles and it just happened we played the right instruments to form a trio."

All three members of Fiscus are well-versed in all facets of jazz. They present a high-energy show comprised of many original songs, written primarily by Teran and Clark, but also featuring the old standards.

"We come from a traditional jazz background, so the bee-bop and big band sound is there, but we also like Bjork, Radiohead and rock and roll, so all of that influences our writing," Teran said.

Teran began playing bass as a child and then, inspired by his mother's love of The Beatles and Led Zeppelin, took up electric bass. It was just a matter of time before he returned to the upright.

"I love everything about it - the sound, the way it feels and it's place in the music," he said. "I think (the audience) is drawn to it because it's a kind of weird looking instrument and it takes up a lot of space on stage; it has a presence."

In the beginning, the trio was trying to come up with a name and Fiscus grew out of a running joke inspired by their first gig.

"Our first gig was one off for Mardi Gras and the woman who booked us, well ... we all three were rather attracted to her and her last name was Fiscus," he said. "We kept joking about it and it stuck.

"You know, I don't think she knows this story yet."

Fiscus was part of a recording project at UNR last summer and plans to return to the studio again this year. They play the Bay area and Sacramento frequently and are also planning another northwest tour for late summer.

"We all like each other and we were friends before we put this together, so when we're on the road we get along and have fun," Teran said. "And I appreciate them as musicians; there is no weak link - we're all equally skilled."

Fiscus plays Plan:b every month or two Teran said, and continue to participate in other ensembles. They also play weddings and other special events.

"We're able to showcase our own music in clubs, but if someone wants a jazz trio to play all standards, we can do that."

To book Fiscus, call Teran at 775-846-0255 or Clark at 530-574-3004 or e-mail him at citracious@gmail.com. They can also be found on Facebook. Check there for updates.

Plan:b is located at 318 N. Carson St., Carson City. They can be reached at 775-887-8879. Visit them at planbmicrolounge.com.