The Zawinul Syndicate September 8, 2005

It would be enough of a contribution to jazz heritage to cite the influential Weather Report, the vastly popular group which he co-led with Wayne Shorter from 1970-85, but Joe Zawinul continues to push the envelope with his band the Zawinul Syndicate. Apart from his keyboard prowess, Zawinul continues to embody creative forward momentum. He is busy creating new sounds, textures and grooves with The Zawinul Syndicate, on stage and in the studio, and creating a personal variation of jazz beyond category. Zawinul has won "Best Keyboardist" in Down Beat 28 times, has honorary doctorates from Berklee School of Music, and is the official Austrian goodwill ambassador to 17 African nations. In January 2002, Zawinul received the first International Jazz Award, co-presented by the International Jazz Festival Organization and the International Association of Jazz Educators. Zawinul is deservedly renowned for his pioneering role in combining the elements of world music, rock and jazz. His revolutionary compositions including "In A Silent Way" and performances with Miles Davis in the late 60s, Weather Report in the 70s and 80s, and The Zawinul Syndicate up to today all combine to make him, at 73, a true trailblazer and giant of music. The Syndicate includes Linley Marthe on bass, Jorge Bezerra on percussion, Nathaniel Townsley on drums, Sabine Kabongo, formerly of Zap Mama, on vocals and Clovis Nunes Correa on guitar.

www.zawinulmusic.com