Christopher Wray
Los Angeles, California, United States
Music
Press
"The Christopher Wray Quartet's sound is, firstly, accessible; you've got the songs and solos of a jazz band, soaked in a layer of soul and cool. This is really what the Christopher Wray Quartet is about; four guys pouring their hearts into the music and drawing everyone around them into that same passion." - Boyd St. Magazine
"The band is set on the path to mainstream success. It just released its first full studio album title "The Way Up in September 2006 and this group of seasoned musicians have crafted a strong debut album." - The Oklahoma Daily
"When I first heard this multi dimensional band, I was immediately impressed with not only their blazing talents, but there dedication and commitment to the artform of jazz."
Chuck Cissel - CEO Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame - Altus Times
On the song "As" from 1976's "Songs in the Key of Life", Stevie Wonder and Herbie Hancock team up for one of the purest blends of soul, funk, gospel and jazz ever recorded. With "The Way Up", it's first album, Norman's own Christopher Wray Quartet is making music confidently in that direction. Since it was made in the 21st century you can't deny the hip-hop influences in its rhythyms; thus, we get a truly modern sound, rooted in timeless groove.
The vocals of front man Wray are Wonder-esque, though his emphasis on enunciation lends his words a unique sense of purpose. His guitar playing is also steady. Meanwhile, TJ Haverkamp's work on the Rhodes electric piano, as well as on his traditional acoustic model, lifts the band to a higher plane than most of their peers.
Those two performances are representative of what's displayed thoughout the album by all the players: thick bass and drum work, solid horns. The scope of vision is immense, as is the talent.
If this album is any indication of what's to come, these guys - 2007 Gazette Woody Award winners for Best Jazz Band - may have something more in store for us in the future that ranks with the works of Wonder, Hancock and the rest of the greats.
-Dave Bond - Oklahoma Gazette
Oklahoma Gazette's annual Woody Awards - named after Mr. Guthrie, of course - recognizes the cream of this crop in 11 Categories, with nominees voted online by readers. Best Jazz Band goes to Christopher Wray Quartet. This Norman jazz ensemble has a little of everything to offer. Inspired by Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock, the foursome adds elements of gospel and hip-hop to its music. The songs are spicy and lively, and the members are all expert musicians who have a true knowledge of their instruments and show complete control over their sound. - Oklahoma Gazette
Discography
Album "A-Sides" due Nov 2010
Photos
Bio
With influences from Jon Brion to John Coltrane, and Al Green to A Tribe Called Quest, Christopher Wray is a guitarist, vocalist and songwriter, who is creating a sound that is melodically hypnotic. Christopher has teamed up with producer Mike Feingold for his new record that is scheduled for release in late 2010. Appearances on the record include one of hip-hop and soul music’s most illustrious drummers Ahmir “?uestlove” Thompson along with bass legend Pino Palladino. Jon Cowherd (Keys) and Dave Easley (Pedal Steel Guitar) from Brian Blade’s Fellowship leave their imprint as well as the musical genius of Patrick Warren contributing his unique melodic approach on Chamberlain. Christopher’s artistic vision has led him down a path both looking before him to the past and in front of him to the future. With a vibe and feel reminiscent of early soul, coupled with his love of jazz and pop music, Christopher is uniquely bridging genre’s touching on something both old and new, attracting loyal listeners from diverse musical walks of life.
Album Update: Christopher is releasing the record in two parts. The first cluster of four songs will be available on iTunes as well as being printed to both CD and a limited run of Vinyl, which will include both mains and instrumentals. Please continue to check in on his blog and website as this music becomes available.
Links
