Today we’d like to introduce you to MERJ.
Hi MERJ, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
Rob Foglia (guitar) met Mel Flores (drums) at a jam session a couple of years ago, then crossed paths with him again last summer at the same jam, this time also meeting Eddie Cartagena (bass). Around that period, Rob had connected with Jordan Frederick (tenor sax) at the Nashville Jazz Workshop. When the four of them got in a room together, it clicked immediately. What started as “let’s play and see what happens” turned into something real. That’s when MERJ was born. About six months later, the band is playing shows and events and is now deep into shaping its first album of original music. MERJ is currently booking out their 2026, looking to share their music with the world.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It hasn’t been a smooth road, but that’s kind of the reality in Nashville. Everyone in the band is active in different projects or jobs, so schedules don’t magically line up. Early on, the biggest challenge was simply protecting time to get in a room and let the music grow instead of rushing it. There’s also no shortage of great players in this city, which raises the bar fast. The upside is that it’s pushed the band to be intentional, prepared, and serious about the direction. That pressure is ultimately making our music stronger.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
The band focuses on modern jazz and blues-rooted music that is groove-driven, melodic, and built to connect with listeners, not just musicians. Each member brings a deep background from different musical worlds, but the priority is always the collective sound. What the band is most proud of is how quickly a clear identity has taken shape. This does not feel like a jam session or a side project. It feels intentional.
What sets the band apart is the commitment to creating music that is unique to the group. The goal is not to fit into an existing scene or chase a sound that is already happening. The focus is on defining a voice that feels honest to the band and letting that stand on its own. In a city full of incredible players, the aim is to create music with feel, space, and strong melodies that people remember.
What would you say have been one of the most important lessons you’ve learned?
The biggest lesson has been the value of patience and trust. Instead of rushing to define what the band should be, the focus has been on showing up consistently and letting the music reveal itself over time. In a city that moves fast and rewards quick wins, slowing down enough to listen to each other has been essential. That approach has helped the band build something that feels honest, sustainable, and true to who we are, not just what is expected.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://merjmusic.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/merj.music/
