Junius Paul, composer, bandleader & acoustic and electric bassist, was born and raised in the Chicago area and is a graduate of St. Xavier University (Chicago). An internationally established bassist, some of Junius' performance and/or recording credits include The Art Ensemble Of Chicago, numerous configurations of ensembles led by Roscoe Mitchell, Famoudou Don Moye Sun Percussion Summit, AACM Small Ensemble & Big Band, Makaya McCraven, The Fred Anderson Trio, Georgia Anne Muldrow, Dee Alexander, The Curtis Fuller Quintet, Willie Pickens, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Marquis Hill, KRS-One and Donald Byrd among others. In 2013-14, Junius served as music department faculty for Trinity Christian College (Palos Heights, IL). In 2017, Junius was the featured artist and honoree for his alma mater, St. Xavier University’s Jazz Weekend. Junius is scheduled to perform the 2018 Chicago Jazz Festival with his quartet and is finishing his debut album, set for release in early 2019 via International Anthem Recording Company.