Coinciding with Tajh Rust's exhibition, improvising group The Brandon Lopez Trio performed at Fridman Gallery, led by Brandon Lopez (bass), with Gerald Cleaver (drums) and Steve Baczkowski (saxophone).

Brandon Lopez is a musician who works in the left of center musics. Working beside experimental music's luminaries, such as Jooklo Trio and Nate Wooley, his work as been praised as “brutal” and “relentless." In September 2018, he was featured soloist with the New York Philharmonic.

Gerald Cleaver is a product of Detroit's music tradition, and has taught jazz at the University of Michigan. His 2001 recording Adjust (Fresh Sound New Talent) was nominated in the Best Debut Recording category by the Jazz Journalists Association.

Steve Baczkowski is a Buffalo-based saxophonist and multi-wind instrumentalist. In addition to his collaborations with worldwide musicians, such as William Parker and Omar Tamez, he's appeared at festivals across the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the UK.