DAVID WEISS -Moving jazz forward has been David Weiss’s modus operandi ever since he appeared on the scene in the late eighties when he established himself in New York by touring and/or recording with the likes of Freddie Hubbard, Billy Harper, and more. Weiss has been a major catalyst and creator of some of the most critically acclaimed and respected jazz to have been released over the years. He's especially known for solidifying the personnel of The Cookers to feature some of the most important musicians in jazz that are still living but in his opinion a bit unsung or neglected and give them another showcase for their amazing compositional skills and outstanding improvisational prowess.
MARCUS STRICKLAND - Jazz saxophonist Marcus Strickland is a charter member of the 21st century jazz vanguard. Similar to the torrent of artists that appeared on the jazz landscape in the early '80s to pull jazz out of the grasp of the Fusion Era, Strickland, his identical twin brother E.J. Strickland (drummer), and artists such as Jeremy Pelt and Robert Glasper breathed new life into jazz early in the new millennium.
MYRON WALDEN - For the last 10 years Walden's brought a unique brand of ardor to the bandstand, and it's become a signature of sorts. His music is marked by a sizzling sincerity -- the kind of emotion that puts listeners on the edge of their seats. Known initially as an alto player, during the last few years he's also added the tenor sax to his arsenal -- it's revitalized his attack. The thoughtfully crafted lines of an experienced bandleader now contain the fiery attitude of a newcomer.
DAVID BRYANT - Pianist/Composer David Bryant is a world-class artist. Few musicians today match the versatility, originality, and sensitivity that he brings to the music. He combines an extensive knowledge of the jazz tradition and other diverse musical idioms, as well an individualistic approach and sound. It is no surprise that he is quickly rising to the top of the international jazz scene.
ERIC WHEELER - Eric Wheeler is a Washington, DC native and has been studying string bass for 20 years. At age thirteen he was accepted into the Duke Ellington School for the Arts, where he began to study jazz music and he received both his Bachelor and Masters degrees from Howard University. He has toured the world and performed with many notable jazz artist such as Stephon Harris, Benny Golson, Curtis Fuller, Delfeayo Marsalis, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Terell Stafford, and Cyrus Chestnut. Presently, Eric resides in Brooklyn New York and works as a full time musician.
E.J. STRICKLAND - Enoch Jamal “E.J.” Strickland is a world-class, world-traveled drummer, composer, educator, and artist who has played on over 60 albums in the last 10-plus years. The Miami native grew up in a creative household, with his twin brother Marcus who played the saxophone; and where E.J. beat on pots, pans, and tables until he finally got his hands on the drums. Fun. Stirring. Uplifting. Intriguing. Kinetic: There are so many moods and meanings enmeshed into his music, his myriad influences and ideas crossing and branching out in every direction.
