Not since the days of Miles Davis have we seen a more daring and musically innovative jazz musician. With a prominent gospel background and strong roots in hip hop and R&B, the vast amount of edgy and experimental flavor found in Kevin Hayden’s music should come to no surprise.
Kevin Hayden, nationally recognized jazz drummer, producer, arranger and composer, born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, has been a major force behind the Milwaukee jazz scene since his move to the city in 2002. Having accompanied some of Milwaukee’s most notable music acts to include Street Life, the Evan Christian Quartet, Christopher’s Project, and the Static Chicken, Kevin has emerged as one of the most exciting and skillful drummers to witness in performance.
Five music projects released under his own name are proof that he doesn’t just work in the background as a drummer. His latest iTunes release, “Paris”, the trio’s sophomore project, is a true testament of his skills beyond drumming, as he is also the executive producer.
The first half of the album is an undoubted highlight that features tenor sax player Eric Schoor paying homage to the great Miles Davis in the ever-so-soulful and funky version of “So What”. Then comes the hard groove based “New Mason Street” featuring guitarist Darrien Williams who comps and solos fearlessly while the kick, snare and bass hit hard in the pocket. Later, the listener is captivated by the opening bass line in an up-tempo version of the famous jazz standard, “How High the Moon” where vocalist Camille Hunt is sweet and passionate in her delivery. The title track, “Paris”, an original piece is the very definition of musical bliss, producing plenty of heartwarming piano and vocal melodies over an inviting bass line.
