Soulful, virtuoso saxophonist George Brooks and groove-master bassist Kai Eckhardt are two of the leading musicians of their generation. Joined by Egyptian keyboardist Osam Ezzeldin, Brazilian drummer Celso Alberti and very special guest Indian vocalist Mahesh Kale, their combined talents express a distinctly twenty-first century perspective on global music, grounded in jazz, focused on groove and informed by rhythmic and melodic traditions of the five continents of their homelands…Africa, Europe, North America, South America and Asia.

Hailed as the “leading American voice in Indian jazz fusion”, saxophonist and composer, George Brooks has performed with such notable musicians as Terry Riley, John McLaughlin, Zakir Hussain, Larry Coryell, Etta James, the Brooklyn Philharmonic, the Kronos Quartet, and Anthony Braxton. His original compositions combine elegant melodies with the rich harmonies of modern jazz and the driving rhythms of North India, forming a unique and wholly satisfying musical experience.

George received commissions from the American Composers Forum, Opera Piccola, the Berkeley Jazz School and The SFMOMA. His compositions have been performed by Yo-Yo Ma, The Liverpool Philharmonic and have appeared infilms by Merchant/Ivory Productions. His unique melodic voice, expressed through rich tone, technical fluency and dynamic stage presence makes him a much sought-after performer.

Kai Eckhardt is a Liberian/ German bassist and composer best known for his pioneering work with the John Mclaughlin Trio in the 80's, Billy Cobham’s International Quartet in the 90's and the band Garaj Mahal in the new Millennium. Kai has also recorded and performed with musicians as varied as Trilok Gurtu, Stanley Clarke, George Benson, Wayne Shorter, Donald Byrd, Bela Fleck, Victor Wooten, Larry Coryell, Zakir Hussain, Steve Smith, John Scofield, and Bill Frisell.

North African-born Osam Ezzeldin, one of the most talented keyboardists on the horizon today, received a full scholarship to Berklee College of Music after his first U.S. appearance. He has played with such renowned musicians as Zakir Hussain, Istanbul-based percussion maestro Misirli Ahment and Steely Dan bass legend Chuck Rainey.

Drummer Celso Alberti, born in Southern Brazil, has performed professionally since the age of 17. He has toured the globe and performed with such legendary artists as Steve Winwood, Airto Moreira, Flora Purim, HerbieMann, Criag Chaquico, and Michael Manring, to name just a few, when he is not in the studio producing.

Special guest Mahesh Kale is an accomplished vocalist of the new generation with a captivating stage presence that has, along with his uncommon musicality and vocal dexterity, positioned him firmly on the national and international radar of the North Indian Classical Music community. As a disciple of Pandit Jitendra Abhisheki, he has illustrious pedigree, and his thrilling performances throughout Europe, Asia, and the United States bear this out.

Visit George Brooks's website

Visit Kai Eckhardt's website

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