DeKirÖpp is a new trio dedicated to rhythm featuring Jim DeJoie, Steve Kirk and Brian Oppel that dives into exploratory moods through both improvisation and through-composed music! We seek to find the true basis of music through vertical harmony and rhythmic drive. Never losing sight of melody, each player is at once an accompanist and soloist. The improvisation is based on melody and form with the freedom of non-judgmental experimentations. Made up of some of Seattle’s finest, DekirÖpp has played many festivals (including Earshot’s “Jazz in the Second Century) as well as numerous gigs throughout the Seattle area. Tonight’s performance will also feature visuals by Steve Kennedy Williams.
Three members of the Tom Baker Quartet (Tom Baker, guitar; Brian Cobb, bass; Greg Campbell, drums) will be joined by saxophonist Neil Welch in a set of composed and improvised music. The Tom Baker Quartet combines carefully composed and sometimes complex music with open-ended improvisation and strong grooves. Their album Begin Again was awarded the Earshot Jazz award for Northwest Album of the Year in 2023. Neil Welch has carved out a niche as a specialist in soprano, tenor, baritone, and bass saxophones, creating powerful and original music as a solo artist and with groups such as Bad Luck and the Royal Room Collective Music Ensemble.