BILLY COBHAM’ SPECTRUM 50 PROJECT
This architect of rhythm is considered one of the world's finest drummers. A leader in jazz rock and fusion, and now reconverted to acoustic jazz, we are talking about Billy Cobham, of course! In 1973, the musician left the legendary Mahavishnu Orchestra to release his first solo album, Spectrum. Although he had a clear idea of what he wanted to do, he never imagined that he'd be giving shape to one of jazz rock's landmark recordings, and celebrating it on tour 40 years later...
A collaborator of Miles Davis, George Benson and Quincy Jones, he also signed numerous albums as a leader, notably with his group Spectrum Band in the early 70s. A master in the art of polyrhythm and the key drum of jazz rock, Billy Cobham has illuminated with his science hundreds of sessions that, from Miles Davis to the Mahavishnu Orchestra via Dreams with the Brecker brothers, cover a staggeringly wide spectrum.
In 2009, the artist released Drum 'n' Voice 3, a return to the jazz-funk sound of the 1970s, with guests such as Brian Auger, George Duke and Gino Vannelli.
Cobham plays his drums using the open-hand technique, which allows the musician to play without crossing his right hand over the snare drum. His concert at the Monte-Carlo Jazz Festival will certainly be one to watch.
Steve Gadd Band
Regarded as one the most influential drummers in contemporary music, Gadd can play anything, easily bridging different musical styles. His feel, technique, and musicality on such tunes as Paul Simon's "Fifty Ways", Steely Dan's "Aja", and Chick Corea's "Nite Sprite" were so awe-inspiring and his concepts so innovative that they instantly assured his special position in the history of the percussive arts.
Today, Gadd is as busy as ever, balancing frequent recording dates with a hectic touring schedule that includes high profile artists such as Eric Clapton, James Taylor, Kate Bush, and Paul Simon. He also has been equally passionate about producing some personal projects on which he also plays drums: The Gaddabouts (w/Edie Brickell, Andy Fairweather Low, & Pino Palladino), Mikarimba (w/Mika Stoltzman & Eddie Gomez), Steve Gadd & Friends, L’Image (w/Tony Levin, Mike Mainieri, Dave Spinozza, & Warren Bernhardt), Pedro Martinez Group, and Steve Gadd Band. Steve Gadd Band includes Grammy nominated pianist Larry Goldings, Michael Landau/guitar, Travis Carlton/bass, Walt Fowler/trumpet and flugelhorn.
