Accent Deluxe is a five-piece jazz ensemble that blends the soul of the standards, the swing of big band and the fiery rhythms of gypsy jazz with sultry bossa nova and jazz classics from around the world. With rich melodies and timeless charm, our music brings a warm, cosmopolitan vibe to every occasion.
The only one of the band that has no accent, Yana weaves warmth, agility, and sparkling crystal tones throughout the tapestry of jazz meeting other genres. When not indulging her stage junkie identity or cajoling her husband to sing with her, she wields needles as an oncology nurse, dabbles in photography, writing, and parenthood, and uses music to raise awareness, funds and support for cancer warriors of yesterday, today and tomorrow.
A longtime saxophonist with a deep passion for improvisation, Stas has played with various groups over the years, always seeking new ways to express himself through sound. As the founder of Accent Deluxe, he brings his belief that music—jazz especially—is the ultimate form of self-expression, channeling that spirit into every performance.
A talented self-taught guitarist, Nick was coerced into joining the group and has been finding new ways to shine ever since. Adept at multiple styles of guitar, he can play strictly Rhythm or make it cry or sing on demand across standard Acoustic, Electric, or Gitan styles with ease.
Alex first picked up a bass at 18, then spent 5 years pursuing jazz professionally. Then life happened. Now, after 30 years, 1 wife, 3 kids, 5 graduations, 2 weddings, and several successful careers, he has more than earned his strings. In addition to upright and bass guitar and harmonica, Alex brings his considerable arranging skills to the band’s unique sound.
While he can and does perform on stage when his wife asks him to, Allan finds joy in working with the technology behind the scenes. Allan has been the primary sound technician for Accent Deluxe since his wife Yana joined the group, and has been having a blast learning how to ensure the quality of this talented group’s sound matches their skills.
Charlie’s been hooked on guitar since the age of seven. In Accent Deluxe, he especially loves playing tango style standards due to his background in classical guitar: a craft he currently studies at University of Wisconsin-River Falls. When playing outside of Accent Deluxe, you’ll find him on stage shredding through rock and metal sets.
