Jeff Coffin, photo by Roxanne Hayes.

Many artists claim to eschew boundaries, but few reach the point where categories no longer apply. Jeff Coffin is one of those rare artists. Not only is Coffin a world-class saxophonist with an immediately identifiable sound, he is also an accomplished photographer, educator and public speaker. With a style rooted in his formal jazz training, Coffin’s music embraces any and all influences. This open-minded approach led to a longstanding relationship with Bela Fleck and the Flecktones, as well as the call to assume the saxophone chair in the Dave Matthews Band after founding member Leroi Moore’s unfortunate passing. But even with such high profile gigs under his belt, Coffin refuses to rest. His band, the Mu’tet, features a rotating cast of musicians and serves as a vehicle for Coffin’s undying curiosity.

“I wanted to have a group that could play essentially any style of music,” Coffin explained during a recent interview with DCist. “I wanted to be able to go from old school to jazz to contemporary improvisational music at the drop of a hat.”

The Mu’tet will be in town tonight at Blues Alley, marking the band’s first performance at the historic venue. Boasting a lineup of monster musicians and all original material, the group’s sound blends influences from all over the world. Coffin incorporates electronic elements as well, making extensive use of effects pedals to add texture. Continuing where the great Rahsaan Roland Kirk left off, Coffin also features his impressive double saxophone technique in every performance.

“I love the sound of the two horns played together and it’s another piece of the overall puzzle of sound we sort through on a nightly basis,” Coffin said.