Tenderpile’s Smile Aisle is a jazz combo out of Bellingham led by guitarist Ben Meyer. The concept of this project is to play music that is melodic and easy to listen to, while also being subtly complex and technical, in a configuration suited for the most intimate spaces. Focusing on the music of the Pat Metheny Group, Tenderpile's Smile Aisle aims to showcase this selection of instrumental deep cuts as a key ingredient for a perfectly relaxed and social environment.

A native of the Pacific Northwest, saxophonist Kareem Kandi is a performer, composer, and educator, in high demand for his talents both on and off the stage.

Kareem is a versatile saxophonist and composer with strong roots in the traditions of Jazz, Blues, Classical and Funk, and has been performing throughout the U.S. and abroad for years, gaining attention from critics and audiences alike. While staying true to musical styles of the past, he also keeps an eye towards the future by composing original music as well as new arrangements of timeless songs from the great American songbook.