The
dynamic jazz septet "KRIYA"captivates audiences everywhere
with their soul-stirring compositions, creating vivid and ever
changing musical landscapes. Refining their sound since the
early 80’s, the group also features cutting-edge reconstructions
of timeless jazz standards. Listeners are treated to styles
and influences ranging from swung, modal and ECM-styles to Latin
and West African strains.
PERSONNEL:
Michael Smolens
piano, voice, West African balafon, alto flute
Alan Hall
drums, West African djun djuns, dumbek
Andrew Higgins
acoustic and fretless electric bass
Julian Gerstin
percussion, talking drum
Mike Olmos
trumpet, flugelhorn
Gene Burkert and Colin Wenhardt
soprano, alto, & tenor saxophones, C & alto flutes,
bass clarinet
The
band members of "KRIYA"are the most highly sought
after musicians for contemporary Bay Area jazz projects and
are composers in their own right. Their extensive performing,
touring, and recording credits include jazz legends: Michael
Brecker, Bob Mintzer, Wynton Marsalis, Joe Lovano, Joe Henderson,
Paul McCandless, Jimmy Heath, Joey Baron, Trilok Gurtu, Clark
Terry, J.J. Johnson, Phil Woods, Eddie Harris, Marc Johnson,
Billy Childs, Larry Coryell, Charlie Hunter, Maria Schneider,
and vocalists Jon Hendricks, Mark Murphy, Kitty Margolis and
Rebecca Parris.
REVIEWS:
“Michael Smolens is a highly skilled writer whose works
recall Miles Davis’ ESP period as well as the exoticism
of groups like Oregon.”
-Jesse
Hamlin, San Francisco Chronicle
“Smolens’ pieces are notable for their originality
and beautifully spacious arrangements...we recommend keeping
an eye out for live performances by "Kriya"or one
of his other line-ups.””
-Tony
Brooke, Critics’ Choice SF Weekly
"A treasure-trove of musical riches."
-Bud
Spangler, Producer and host of
See’s Sunday Nights Sweets
“No ordinary composer...Smolens gives a broad palette from
which to paint luminous ECM-like textures.”
-Lee
Hildebrand, East Bay Express
Critic’s Choice
