Skyline - Dave Pope Trio

Blue Canoe Records proudly announces the highly anticipated return of the Dave Pope Trio with their new album “Skyline,” available July 18, 2025. This release reunites drummer Dave Pope, pianist and bassist Mike Pope, and world-renowned bassist John Patitucci in a soulful, spontaneous, and deeply expressive collection of originals and jazz standards.

After a 14-year hiatus following their acclaimed debut You and The Night and The Music (2012), the trio reconnected in August 2024 at Vatican City Sound in Marriottsville, MD. Despite having no live performances together in the interim—and with minimal rehearsal—what emerged was a session overflowing with chemistry, creativity, and courage.
​
“Skyline” features two original compositions—Dave Pope’s title track “Skyline” and “Country Nocturne” by Mike Pope—alongside a curated selection of jazz classics including:

• “Hermitage” (Pat Metheny)
• “Very Early” (Bill Evans)
• “Falling Grace” (Steve Swallow)
• “ESP” (Wayne Shorter)
• “Minority” (Gigi Gryce)

Of special note is the unique interpretation of “Falling Grace,” which features both Mike and John on 6-string electric bass, transforming the trio into a piano/guitar-style ensemble for this track.

The recording nearly faced a setback when Mike Pope suffered a detached retina just one week prior to the session—his second eye surgery in recent months. Despite limited vision, he pressed forward with determination and humor, even jokingly suggesting the album be titled Flying Blind. Thankfully, Mike has since fully recovered, and his performances on this recording are nothing short of remarkable.

Reflecting on the experience, Dave Pope shares:
“We covered a lot of musical ground in just two days. Although we hadn’t played live as a group, the session flowed naturally. I’m proud of what we captured and grateful to have had this opportunity with Mike and John.”
​
About Dave Pope:
An Atlanta-based multi-instrumentalist (drums, guitar, bass), Dave Pope has spent decades cultivating a diverse musical career spanning the Midwest, East Tennessee, and the Southeast. From garage bands at 14 to sessions with jazz luminaries like Randy Brecker, Joe Gransden, and Louis Heriveaux, Dave brings a deep well of experience and artistic sensitivity to every project.

About Mike Pope:
An acclaimed bassist, pianist, composer, and educator, Mike Pope is a faculty member at Berklee College of Music. He’s known for his extensive solo work and collaborations with artists like Chick Corea, Al Di Meola, and David Sanborn.

About John Patitucci:
A multiple Grammy Award-winning bassist, John Patitucci has played with legends including Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, and Esperanza Spalding. His unmistakable sound and virtuosity are on full display throughout Skyline.


“Skyline” by the Dave Pope Trio is a testament to resilience, chemistry, and timeless artistry. Available on all major digital platforms July 18, 2025, via Blue Canoe Records.
​