Darcy James Argue, photo by Ben Anaman.

In today’s music scene, it is relatively rare to come across a true jazz composer. Sure, lots of jazz musicians write music, but those compositions are mainly as a medium for improvisation. Darcy James Argue is a notable exception and he, along with his band — dubbed Darcy James Argue’s Secret Society — is generating an undeniable buzz in the jazz world.

Few vehicles allow a jazz composer to explore the wide palette of the idiom more than the big band. Like its orchestral counterpart, the number of instruments involved allow for not only an array of sounds, but also for dynamics that can range from the intimacy of a piano trio to the roar of a brass driven shout chorus. Argue’s Secret Society is such a group, presenting eclectic sounds while still being able to pack a punch. The band’s debut recording, 2009’s Infernal Machines, was included on more than 70 of the year’s best-of lists, was named “Best Debut” by the Village Voice and topped three separate categories in Downbeat‘s annual Critic’s Poll. The string of accolades culminated with Grammy and JUNO award nominations. This critical notice has led to high profile appearances at some of the world’s most renowned jazz festivals.

A native of Vancouver, Argue cut his teeth as part of Montreal’s vibrant music scene. He received a Master’s degree from the prestigious New England Conservatory and subsequently relocated to New York in 2003. His ensemble will make its District debut tomorrow with two performances. The Secret Society will be performing on the Millennium Stage, then heading over to Subterranean A, an informal underground performance space, for a show later that evening. Opening that later show will be Fight the Big Bull, a critically acclaimed 10-piece band out of Richmond whose collaborations range from MacArthur “genius” Grant winning, avant-garde saxophonist Ken Vandermark to Bon Iver.

Argue recently took time out of his hectic travel and performance schedule to answer some questions via e-mail.