Cully Swansen
Bass
Cully Swansen is an jazz bassist, lyricist, and composer predominantly active in the Upper Midwest, specifically across Minnesota and Wisconsin. He is well-regarded for his rich melodic style and contributions to the progressive jazz scene.
Key Projects & Collaborations
Happy Apple: Swansen was the original bassist and a founding member of the highly acclaimed Minneapolis-based progressive jazz trio. He performed alongside drummer David King and saxophonist Michael Lewis on the group's debut material, including writing compositions for their first album, Blown Shockwaves and Crash Flow. He was later succeeded by bassist Erik Fratzke.
The Sara Rifleman Jazz Trio: He serves as a founding member and the anchor bassist for this Wisconsin-based trio, collaborating frequently with regional jazz artists.
Mingus Fest: For over two decades, Swansen has been a core member of the annual event commemorating the legendary jazz bassist and composer Charles Mingus, performing in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Individual Works & Family Heritage
Lyrical Jazz Composition: Swansen heavily channels the musical legacy of his late father, Chris Swansen—a pioneering electronic and jazz composer. Cully’s original track, "How Green," is featured prominently on audio releases by Schoolhouse Press.
Vocal & Studio Collaborations: Beyond instrumental jazz, he has written lyrics for tracks like "Yellow Soled" and recorded acoustic jazz standards on bass alongside renowned vocalists like Nancy King on projects engineered by Tom Washatka.