Kreisler Plays Kreisler CD - Import

The first piece, 'View From Above,' sets an appropriate tone for the rest of the album's compositional balance. The tune was inspired by one of the greatest living interpreters of song, Dianne Reeves. On a live date with the vocalist, Scott picked up on a theme she sang that would not leave him alone. 'It touched me so deeply that on the plane ride home I started writing - hence the title.

' As a drummer, Scott easily shifts temperaments to reveal an abundance of color, emotion and thought. And while the Houston, TX native is clearly steeped in the tradition of Roy Haynes, Tony Williams, and Elvin Jones, Scott displays his own distinctive style with a keen use of space, contour and dynamics. 'In my drumming, I aim for continuous forward motion while paying tribute to the influences that have guided me and shaped who I am as a musician today.

'The Source draws together an elite cadre of musicians under the age of 30 who are impacting today's jazz scene. Guitarist and occasional vocalist Lionel Loueke and pianist Robert Glasper make guest appearances on Scott's composition 'Mantra.

' Loueke and Glasper bring multiple flavors to the mix including West-African folk sounds, hip-hop and neo-soul. 'I want to challenge myths and contest notions about what jazz should sound like. Jazz should be inclusive of many forms. These guys make that happen.

'Scott describes his spectrum of influences as 'far-reaching,' as he demonstrates on a haunting version of Bjork's '107 Steps' featuring Myron Walden's bass clarinet, one of Scott's favorite instrumental voices. 'The expansive range and vibrant color of the instrument provide such a profound contrast and balance in the band's sound. The way Myron plays the instrument has left a strong impression on my vision for its place in my music.