Press Release - BEAST MODE TRIO

International Jazz Supergroup BEAST MODE TRIO

Set to Redefine Global Soundscapes

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Featuring:

• Tal Cohen – Piano / Keyboards (Australia)
• jjHOLLYWOOD aka Jonathan Joseph – Drums (USA)
• Gola aka Armando Gola – Acoustic & Electric Bass (Cuba)

August 2024 - The world of modern jazz is about to witness a groundbreaking fusion of sounds as three virtuosos from different corners of the globe join forces to form the BEAST MODE TRIO. This international powerhouse, comprising Grammy-winning pianist Tal Cohen from Australia, acclaimed Cuban bassist Gola aka Armando Gola, and legendary American drummer jjHOLLYWOOD aka Jonathan Joseph, brings together a wealth of diverse musical traditions to create an innovative and captivating jazz experience.

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A Global Musical Dialogue

The BEAST MODE TRIO is more than just a band; it is a dynamic cultural exchange. With each member hailing from a different continent, their music is a rich tapestry of global influences. The Trio's sound is an eclectic blend, incorporating the complex Mangambe and Bikutsi rhythms from Cameroon, West Africa, the intricate patterns of Cuban Batá drumming, and the haunting melodies of the Middle East, all seamlessly woven into the fabric of modern jazz.

The international nature of the BEAST MODE TRIO emphasizes their innovative approach to jazz, blending global rhythms and melodies in a way that is both fresh and deeply rooted in tradition.

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Meet the Artists

Tal Cohen: Hailing from Australia, Tal Cohen is a Grammy award-winning pianist known for his extraordinary ability to blend Middle Eastern melodies with traditional jazz harmony. His unique rhythmic palette has made him one of the most sought-after pianists in the world. Cohen has performed globally with jazz legends such as Terence Blanchard, Joe Lovano, and Greg Osby, earning accolades for his compelling performances at prestigious venues like the Detroit Jazz Festival and the Black Cat in San Francisco. His latest album, "Gentle Giants," has garnered international acclaim, solidifying his place as a leading figure in contemporary jazz.

Gola aka Armando Gola: A native of Havana, Cuba, Gola is a master of both the upright and electric bass. His career is a testament to his versatility, having worked with icons like Chucho Valdès, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Eldar Djangirov, Arturo Sandoval and Alejandro Sanz. Trained at the Amadeo Roldan Conservatory, Gola has toured extensively, contributing to Grammy-winning albums and performing at major jazz festivals worldwide. His debut album as a leader, "Gola Live Things," showcases his exceptional talent and his ability to blend Cuban rhythms with modern jazz sensibilities.

jjHOLLYWOOD aka Jonathan Joseph: Jonathan Joseph’s drumming prowess has earned him a place among the greats, having toured the world with Jeff Beck and recorded critically acclaimed albums like "Jeff Beck Live in Tokyo 2014." An American drummer with a deep understanding of African-American funk and jazz, Joseph has also played with musical heavyweights such as Pat Metheny, Al Jarreau, and The Yellowjackets. His book, "Exercises in African-American Funk," has become a vital resource for drummers, emphasizing the fusion of ancient Cameroonian rhythms with contemporary funk and jazz.

A New Chapter in Modern Jazz

The BEAST MODE TRIO represents the pinnacle of international collaboration in jazz. Their music is not just a fusion of styles but a synthesis of cultures, where the traditional and the modern converge. Audiences can expect an electrifying live experience that pushes the boundaries of jazz and celebrates the rich diversity of the world’s musical heritage.

The Trio is set to embark on a world tour, bringing their unique sound to major jazz festivals and iconic venues across the globe. Each performance promises to be a journey through the rhythms, melodies, and harmonies that connect us all, transcending borders and uniting audiences through the universal language of music.

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