11/27 - Saturday :: Winard Harper

Winard's Website

Drummer Winard Harper is passionate about jazz. "This music is powerful," he says. "It can do a lot of good for people. If they'd spend some time each day listening to it, we would see many changes in the world."

"Early on," Harper continues, "I transcribed a couple of Max solos, but I really just loved listening to him. He was a big influence as well as Art Blakey, and more so than anybody, Billy Higgins. The joy and the passion and his love of playing really made an impact on me. I could see similarities between myself and him, and then we became such great friends. A lot of the concept of my band was inspired by Billy. A lot of the African influences and different instruments I use in the band, Billy was always exploring as well."

Piadrum recording artist Winard Harper is one of the hardest working drummers in jazz today, not only leading his very exciting and hard-swinging sextet, but also continuing as an in-demand sideman. When not touring with his band, Harper continues to work and record with such artists such as Joe Lovano, Avery Sharpe, Steve Turre, Wycliffe Gordon, Frank Wess, Ray Bryant, and Jimmy Heath. His newest CD, Make It Happen, goes further than any of his previous six releases to highlight his talent as drummer, composer and bandleader.

Doug's Myspace

Doug Yoel (voice, guitar), Kyle Esposito (bass), & Johnny Watson (drums).

Fresh out of college, singer/songwriter Doug Yoel moved to New York City to finish an album and to develop his performing career. The album was finished just as the city and the world were devastated by the 9/11 attacks. Doug found himself stuck in a depressed city, where performing – and basic survival – became increasingly difficult. He did find work in New York as a record producer, and had the good fortune to earn two Grammy Nominations in 2004 and 2007.

In 2007, Doug relocated to Woodstock and experienced a creative renewal. He began writing and developing a sound that blends organic roots, blues and vintage rock; with classic country heartbreak; and sweetened with bits of soul and reggae. Doug’s songs are aimed to move the spirit, and the body – as are his performances, centered around his uniquely expressive delivery on vocals and guitar.

His 2008 EP ‘Yellow Light / So.. I Want You’ garnered critical attention, an Alternative music feature on iTunes, and a spot on the eMusic singer-songwriter chart. Doug has become increasingly active as concert performer, winning over fans and critics, including national roots zine No Depression, which listed a recent performance on their “Faves” list. Doug’s new compilation ‘..in the dusts of old New York’ will be released nationally on November 23.