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Stories   >   Steven Kroon finds the right tempo and groove on: Without A Doubt

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Steven Kroon finds the right tempo and groove on: Without A Doubt

Posted: June 20, 2011

Without A Doubt is Steven Kroon's 4th CD, and like his other recordings, he's proud of the music and the quality of the production. In each one of his productions, he's noticed the growth and quality of his music, which he says is attributed to his band. Through the bands live performances and camaraderie, they have developed their own sound, and this has enabled them to bring their live performance sound to the recordings. Just like the artists from back in the day, they would first play their material out in the clubs prior to going into the studio. This allows you to find the right tempo and groove for each tune. Kroon says he's always loved this concept.

Kroon speaks about the members of his Band: Igor Atalita is my musical director; he is very instrumental in the sound of the band. He also served as co-producer on my CD. Bryan Carrott has also added much to the detail of the band, and his musical solos speak for themselves. Ruben Rodriguez adds the foundation and the glue, his sense of timing is impeccable. Craig Rivers bring his rich sound as well as his gift of ensemble playing. Diego Lopez has a great knowledge of rhythm. He also has the gift of taste, touch and timing. My special guest Bobby Franceschini has a vast range of all genres of music. He has a creative spirit that doesn't limit him to any boundaries. As for his very special guest Carla Cook, I've always been in awe of the quality and tone of her beautiful voice. I knew that by adding her voice to this project, it would make it extra special. Last but not least myself, Steven Kroon, I am the servant of my music. My mission is to touch and inspire as many people as I can through the sounds and rhythms of my music. I also provide the spirit of the groove.
 
Kroon speaks about how he selects his tunes: I select the tunes as though I'm looking at a painting. The melody and the rhythm have to have a sense of harmony and unity to tell the story. It all starts with the melodic line, the tune itself. "Without a Doubt," which was written by Igor and me, was conceived through a dream I had. I immediately got together with Igor, who I love to collaborate with, and the tune was born. I knew that was going to be the title of the CD. I love the statement that it makes, and it's a quote frequently used by Oscar Hernandez. Oscar Hernandez is a brilliant musician, having him write and arrange, as well as being a friend has been a great asset to me and my band.  All I have to do is ask him for a tune, and he comes up with the perfect song, in this case without a doubt, it was "Monterey." Through the power of face book, I met the great Marty Sheller. Marty was very responsible for many of those Mongo Santamaria hits. Being in awe of his writing and arrangements, I asked him to write and arrange a tune for my band, and he graced me with the perfect tune "On Two." My love for Brazilian music is prevalent throughout all of my CD's. As a percussionist, you should know why.  "Tombo 7/4" was written by one of my percussion heroes, the great Airto Moreira. When I heard this tune back in the days of radio station, RVR, the NY Jazz station, it blew me away. I brought this to the attention of my vibraphonist Bryan Carrott, and we both immediately jumped on it. I can truthfully say we came up with a great arrangement for this tune. "Nascimento" is a Barry Harris tune. I heard him play this tune at "Sweet Rhythm" with his band, and I instantly fell in love with the melodic line. This was arranged by James Shipp. James Shipp is one of the great young musicians on the scene, full of fresh new ideas. He also arranged "Sou Eu" for me. This tune was written by one of my favorite Brazilian composers Moacir Santos. James Shipp's arrangements have become another important asset to my band. "Sabro Songo" was written by Bobby Franceschini. Bobby's gift for writing and arranging is his great imagination. I love his ideas and his sense of rhythm. "Pamela" is a Bobby Watson tune. This idea was brought to me by Adam Perez. Adam subbed for the band and he brought this tune to my attention. We both got together and collaborated on the song, and I was quite pleased with the outcome. "Mizo (Agua)" was written by Zaccai Curtis. Zaccai is another one of the new young lions, who's already created a buzz on the scene with his piano playing, as well as his writing and arranging. He enjoyed playing with my band, and I asked him to compose something for us. "Mizo," I can say, turned out to be one of my favorite tunes on the CD. Last but not least is the rendition of "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face." This was arranged by me as well as my great friend Hubert Eves, III. I had a lot of fun creating the percussive rhythm and colors of this tract. Having the talent and knowledge of Hubert was a big plus. I've had the pleasure of working in Carla Cook's band for the last 10 yrs. I must say, I've grown very fond of her voice and her friendship. What can I say about her performance except "Amazing." I'm very pleased with this production.