To be of the New York jazz scene is a badge of significant honor. To have been so for a period of time, that’s an even shinier brooch. Steve has performed and recorded with many well-known and highly esteemed musicians. Check the rosters of some of the notable ensembles with guitar and you are sure to find his name listed with the casts. The groups include those led by Charlie Haden, Steve Swallow, Ben Allison, John Pattitucci, and Adam Nussbaum. There is a special place in Steve’s musical expression for the music of Carla Bley and he has collaborated with bassist Ben Allison and reeds player Ted Nash, on some special project work.
When not performing, Cardenas is busy as an educator and as an education ensembles leader. The sound of Steve’s guitar music artistry is one that brings voice and colour to emotions. The lines and phrases are shaped with waves of depth and plumb where the soul begins. Melody in a Dream is the name of a release of Steve’s and the title very much says it all about how Cardenas lands; emotions with voice and color.