contemporary jazz
Lumina Way is an album about friendship formed through music.
Tom Zygmont – Drummer, Producer, Composer
Lumina Way
An extraordinary, multi-faceted, and brilliantly performed debut album
Lumina Way has impacted me like few contemporary jazz albums in recent memory. Using the term “contemporary jazz” to describe this dynamic 10-track collection is significant, as it harkens back to a time before “smooth jazz” became a radio-driven genre.
This music had funky grooves and infectious melodies but was driven by intuitive musicians who created vibrant musical conversations and soloed with fire and abandon. That era sparked my passion and 30-year career as a music journalist, so it’s no surprise I felt deep excitement and gratitude when I heard Zygmont and his group put a modern twist on that sound in Lumina Way.
Jonathan Widran, The JW Vibe
Better From a Distance
Groove in Motion – Tom Zygmont Drops a Fall-Ready Fusion Jam with Better From A Distance
With fall in full swing, Tom Zygmont releases “Better From A Distance,” from his debut album Lumina Way — a groove forward blend of blues, jazz, rock, and funk that delivers both musical muscle and playful energy.
Produced by longtime collaborator Terry Wollman, the track showcases the joy of live performance and the strength of seasoned players in sync. Wollman’s rhythm guitar drives the track, locking in with James Zota Baker’s fiery electric lead work. Meanwhile Ron Walters Jr. lays down a simmering organ bed that keeps the groove percolating throughout.
Zygmont on drums joins forces with bass legend Abraham Laboriel Sr. and percussionist Luis Conte to form a tight, dynamic rhythm section that doesn’t just support — it grooves, swings, and pushes the track forward.
“Better From A Distance” is a musical celebration of collaboration, chemistry, and feel — capturing that rare moment when every part just clicks. With its deep pocket, layered textures, and infectious rhythm, the single stands as a summer soundtrack built to move and connect.
Tom Zygmont, Abraham Laboriel Sr., Terry Wollman, Melanie Taylor, Luis Conte, James Zota Baker, Alex Miller, Ron Walters Jr., Kenji Nakai
THE MUSICIANS
The guest list – once in lifetime historic gathering of L.A. greats
Zygmont’s career has naturally led to having an incredibly talented and diverse bench of musicians and fellow artists to invite to the party he and Wollman were throwing at Sunset Sound in Hollywood, where most of the album was recorded live by Kenji Nakai.
In addition to the aforementioned Brandon Fields and Terry Wollman, includes guitarists James Zota Baker, Jennifer Batten and Sid Jacobs; percussionists Leon Mobley, Luis Conte and MB Gordy; pianist Ron Walters, Jr.; bassist Abraham Laboriel Sr.; trumpeter/flugelhornist Wayne Bergeron; harmonica virtuoso Tollak Ollestad; harpist Stephanie Bennet; and vocalist Melanie Taylor. The album was mixed by Peter Kelsey, whose credits including Elton John, Jean-Luc Ponty and Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward.