Ian Rapien

At first glance, the core of spectrums is a fairly standard jazz quartet consisting of saxophone, piano, bass and drums. Upon further inspection, however, much is revealed considered unorthodox to typical jazz conception. The saxophone is treated with effects associated with guitar- delays, wah, and even distortion. The keyboard adds patches ranging from Fender Rhodes to sound effects found in current electronica computer generated music. A unique array of cymbals and drums allow for a wide range of timbres within the break-beat grooves. The entire package is tied together with a tight low end provided by electric bass for the final contemporary touch.
The final product is an original contemporary fusion of numerous styles created by a young yet sophisticated band, producing a new, unique sound, giving spectrums a niche in the constantly changing music world of which exists today.
Spectrums quickly become a recognized name of the music scene in the Boston Area. The band recently opened for the John Scofield band in July of 2003 at the Hot Tin Roof in Martha’s Vineyard. The group was featured in Jazziz Magazine’s October 2003 issue. The group has been chosen to appear on the new Berklee College of Music jazz label, Jazz Revelation Records. The group has had countless appearances in Boston, most notably Ryles Jazz Club, and the Berklee Performance Center. The band has appeared on Boston’s own WBGH, and was featured in May in Radio i 79.5 FM in Nagoya, Japan, and CKLN 88.1 FM in Toronto, Canada.