During the first week of October 2017, world-class musicians from many genres came together in an ambitious project…to record and perform a full night of music…in a week. The Deep Energy Orchestra were brought together by local composer and fretless bassist, Jason Everett who had been named an “Artist in Residence” by the prestigious non-profit Jack Straw Cultural Center in Seattle, WA. The project captured high-quality audio and video performances of his compositions which are inspired by his love for classical, jazz and Indian Fusion music. The live recording took place at Jack Straw Cultural Center, located in the University District, over a two day period.
Says Jason, “I love instrumental music, and started as a classical musician at eight. I was playing jazz clubs professionally at sixteen, and feel in love with Indian music at eighteen. This project is an exciting culmination of that history and my love for those musical styles.”
Another well-known musician in the project who plays an unusual instrument is Trey Gunn, who is best known for his work with King Crimson and the Security Project. “I was really excited to play with Trey…we are both bassists with extended range instruments who play melodically; so we were able to trade off roles as lead and rhythm players,” explained Jason. “Trey is really exciting to watch as he is performing on his Warr Guitar which is a 12-string instrument that he plays almost like a piano.”
“I was surprised how easily these pieces flowed out of us when rehearsing and recording. It is a clear testament to Jason’s writing that music this challenging felt so natural.” – Trey Gunn
Also featured on the album is Indian musician Selvaganesh, best known for his work with Shakti, John McLaughlin and Jonas Helborg, who plays kanjira and his custom drum kit.
“It is my pleasure to be part of Deep Energy Orchestra, everyone was flying, especially Trey! I had a great time playing the music and was impressed with Jason’s pieces, especially those in odd-meters. This is one of my favourite groups!” – Selvaganesh
More-strings-than-usual might be a theme for this group as lead violinist Radhika Iyer, from San Francisco played her seven-string electric violin and Everett himself is known for his unique seven-string fretless bass. Other local musicians who rounded out the sound included tabla player Anil Prasad, and classical musicians, Rachel Nesvig on violin, Aleida Gehrels on viola, and Phil Hirschi on cello.
To purchase Deep Energy Orchestra’s “Playing With Fire”:https://deepenergyorchestra.bandcamp.com/
For more information:
www.deepenergyorchestra.com
www.facebook.com/deepenergyorchestra
Press inquiries: Glass Onyon PR, PH: 828-350-8158, glassonyonpr@gmail.com
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