Artist Information Biography Tangria Jazz Group is becoming a fixture in the Bay Area jazz scene. The group's unique blend of intensity and sensitivity sets them apart. Formed in the spring of 1997, Tangria Jazz Group has developed a rich, captivating sound that brings new contributions to bear upon the genres of Latin, funk and straight-ahead jazz with original music and fresh takes on jazz standards. Each player brings an individual style and impressive talent to the group, always keeping Tangria's sound interesting and dynamic. Their influences range from Ellington to Jobim, from Miles Davis to Joe Henderson. Simon Rochester on Rhodes piano draws upon the intricate and lush contributions left by Herbie Hancock and Bill Evans; the intensity and explosiveness of Tony Williams and the delicateness of Billy Higgins are apparent in drummer Sheryl Mebane's playing; and the melodic and soulful contributions of bass players Ray Brown and Rufus Reid are brought forth in Justin Hellman's playing. In addition to their influences, you'll also hear freshness, personal expression, and a unique identity, especially in their own compositions. We hope you enjoy the music of Tangria Jazz Group. Check out www.tangria.net/shows.html for our updated calendar. Check out http://tangria.net/productions.html to learn more about Tangria Music Productions, our pop, rock, vocal jazz and funk projects. Instrumentation Simon Rochester-keys Justin Hellman, Vicky Grossi-bass Sheryl Mebane-drums Greg Yim-guitar for Mebane Productions Discography Tangria Jazz Group (7 tracks, 2008): Self-titled CD sharing world jazz themes. Mebane's Eleven (11 tracks, 2006): played on 100 radio stations; Listen to all the tracks at http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/tangria2 (ex. world jazz track 'Warm') Songs from Lady Bird (10 tracks, 2003): see www.pearlstreetpublishing.com for the related book and www.geocities.com/sherylmebane/spokenLadyBird.mp3 for a spoken word performance from the book; Listen to all the tracks at http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/tangria1 (ex. funk jazz track 'Inner Urge') Links http://www.tangria.net