Sunday, September 28 // Door at 7:00 PM // Show at 7:30 PM // $10 // $15-$20 Artist Supporter
Devin Gray (1983, Portland Maine, USA) is a distinguished drummer, composer, and bandleader known for his innovative contributions to contemporary jazz. Since relocating to New York City in 2006, Gray has become a prominent figure in the jazz community, collaborating with esteemed musicians such as David Liebman, Gary Thomas, Tony Malaby, and Nate Wooley. He currently divides his time between Brooklyn and Berlin, engaging with diverse musical scenes. Gray’s discography as a leader showcases his versatility and commitment to pushing musical boundaries. His debut album,”Dirigo Rataplan”(2012), featured notable artists Ellery Eskelin, Dave Ballou, and Michael Formanek, and was praised for its complex and intimate compositions. He continued this trajectory with “RelativE ResonancE”(2015), collaborating with Chris Speed, Kris Davis, and Chris Tordini, further establishing his reputation as a forward-thinking composer. In 2021, Gray released “Melt All the Guns,” a politically charged trio album featuring trumpeter Ralph Alessi and pianist Angelica Sanchez, addressing the pressing issue of gun violence in the United States. The following year, he presented “27 Licks,” a duet with fellow drummer Gerald Cleaver, highlighting his adventurous spirit and deep musical rapport. In 2023 Gray released “Most Definitely” as his first solo drum recording showcases his innovative approach to percussion, blending acoustic drumming with electronic elements to create a dynamic and immersive listening experience. The album reflects on modern themes, as seen in tracks like “Bad WiFi,””Doom Scrolling,” and “Crypto Punks,” which mirror contemporary digital experiences. Critics have praised “Most Definitely”for its rapid turnover of ideas and broad spectrum of extremes. The album’s strength lies in its eloquent orchestration of blended electronics balanced with Gray’s high-level improvisational performances. This release marks a significant milestone in Gray’s career, highlighting his growth as a forward-thinking creative artist committed to pushing the boundaries of percussion and improvisation. Gray’s most recent project,”Melt All the Guns II”(2024), continues his exploration of socially conscious themes, this time featuring Ralph Alessi and French pianist Myslaure Augustin. The album comprises tracks like “East Berlin 2024” and “Audre Lorde Straße,” reflecting his engagement with contemporary issues and global perspectives. Throughout his career, Gray has maintained a dynamic presence in the international jazz scene, performing at venues and festivals worldwide. His collaborations span a wide range of artists, including Sylvie Courvoisier, Tim Berne, Michael Formanek, Zoh Amba, and Micah Thomas, among others. As a sideman, he has contributed to projects with Andrea Parkins, Satoko Fujii, Marc Ducret, and Eve Risser, showcasing his adaptability and commitment to musical innovation. Gray’s work is characterized by a relentless pursuit of quality and sincerity, as well as an exciting energy that propels him toward diverse musical directions. His compositions are noted for their complexity and engagement, often described as both brainy and intimate. As he continues to evolve as an artist, Devin Gray remains a compelling force in modern jazz, sharing his unique musical vision with audiences around the world.
