Seth Freeman

First new studio album in over five years. The new recording distills the sweeping stylistic range of KDTU s concert performances into its own authentic sound. Masterfully incorporating elements of vintage rock, old school soul and classic funk, the inimitable saxophonist/flutist/vocalist Karl Denson and his long-standing six piece unit that includes guitarist DJ Williams, drummer Zak Najor, bassist Chris Stillwell, keyboardist David Veith, trumpeter Chris Littlefield and slide/lap steel guitarist Seth Freeman, have delivered what is undoubtedly their strongest work yet.

Singer and saxophonist Karl Denson fronts the Tiny Universe as if he’s preaching the gospel. His energy and spirit are contagious while his songwriting serves a larger message of fellowship—across generations, genders, religions and cultures. Not surprisingly, he’s none too pleased with the current state of political discourse. Thus the reason why KDTU’s new album, ‘Gnomes & Badgers,’ is Denson’s hard-grooving answer to these tragically divisive times.

"Silver" marks the silver anniversary of Grammy-nominated jazz collective Fourplay, a supergroup consisting of bassist Nathan East, keyboardist Bob James, guitarist Chuck Loeb (who joined five years ago) and drummer Harvey Mason. Over their 25 year history, the four musicians have continued to explore together and celebrate their unprecedented bond with their most wide-ranging and gratifying recording to date. Following the theme of the occasion, most of the original compositions play off the anniversary and just like its namesake, Silver shines, each track a brilliant example of what has made this formidable ensemble one of the most respected in the jazz world. Former members Lee Ritenour and Larry Carlton return to Fourplay as guest artists on the album.