Jazz Funk Improvisation (with attitude)

11 MP3 Songs
JAZZ: Acid Jazz, JAZZ: Jazz Fusion



Details:
Dirk Quinn

... is a Philadelphia based jazz/funk guitarist who has utilized years of constant gigging to develop a unique and progressive style. His recently released self-titled debut features thoughtful, original melodies flowing seamlessly over groove-heavy rhythms; intricate song structures giving way to strongly expressive, organic improvisations. Drawing inspiration from music of all types, his solo acoustic sound has been compared to the guitar âpyrotechnicsâof Keller Williams and Kaki King, while his full band compositions bear resemblances that range from the honest, urban funk of Soulive to the brave experimentation of Medeski, Martin and Wood.

A relative newcomer to the jazz scene, Dirk was initially attracted to the guitar after being introduced to classic rock giants like Led Zeppelin and The Who, but his thirst for the unique and bizarre soon had him jamming out to the more radical and daring Mahavishnu Orchestra and the humorous, bass-laden noise of Primus.

Playing smoky clubs as many as 5 nights a week with countless musical projects afforded him ample time to hone his chops. It wouldnât be long before the refining of his own artistic message coupled with a fresh, new outlook and a deeper musical/life philosophy opened up to him the world of jazz. Miles, Coltrane, Monk and Brubeck along with the more contemporary sounds of Bela Fleck, Ahmad Jamal and Jaco Pastorius came pouring into his life (and showing up in his music). Liberated by the idea of free improvisation, he was finally able to realize and focus his musical vision.

His debut CD is aptly self-titled, showing a new-found confidence and excitement for this unique brand of groove-oriented jazz. While still in the process of finding just the right group of musicians to complement the music, Dirk has been playing solo acoustic shows in and around the Philadelphia area with the help of his loop station, an effect that allows him to layer musical phrases in real time. With a mix of his funky original material, energetic jazz covers, and reworked classics, he elicits a fantastic crowd response!

"On the jazzy-funky side for sure...

Mixed meter, progressive soloing and melodic sensibilities point toward an accessible yet modern sound. The melodies have a memorable quality and stand on their own as original and unique.

This is a very refreshing sounding group with an adventurous ethos. At the same time the music is in an accessible place; not too out as to scare the uninitiated away. People who can feel the funk and folks who have listened to jazz should be able to sit down at the same table and dig this music."
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