Music
The best kept secret in music
Press
Those who were at Reilly’s at Yonge and Dundas last Saturday night truly witnessed an event not to be forgotten. Over 300 people came to behold the spectacle that is MUZO. The wailing that occurred was unheard of, the bass that was dropped was simply too hard, and the drumming was tighter than that girl who sits behind you in accounting. MUZO busted on the scene about a year ago and have been playing non-stop shows ever since. Their brand of rock-improvisation is fresh and invigorating. The show on Saturday featured an amazing light show, crazy stage antics, and tons of energy.
MUZO is a trio comprised of guitarist Mike Wise, bassist Mike Kirsh, and drummer Ben Weigensberg. They perform all original tunes with some reworked covers. Their influences range from rock legend Jimi Hendrix to modern jazz guru Bill Frisell to jam-band kings, Phish. MUZO’s music can only truly be appreciated through live performances. They strive to make every show as fresh as possible. At some shows, you may find an artist on stage, painting along with the band. Most recently, Danny Richmond, a U of T student, was inspired to paint to the twisting and turning jams. They encourage the artist to come free of any plans; every painting is just as unique as the music played.
The most amazing thing about MUZO is that they have chosen to be completely self-managed. Producing their own CD’s, booking and promoting their own shows, and even recording, are all tasks that members of MUZO have taken on themselves. When asked why, guitarist Mike Wise commented “We’re three smart guys; we figured that by doing our research, and cutting out the middle man, we could make more money and probably get further in the end”. It certainly has paid off; MUZO has managed to play at some of the top spots for live music in Toronto, including the Horseshoe Tavern, Silver Dollar Room and Clinton’s Tavern. They are even going on tour to Montreal, London and Guelph this month.
You can catch the next MUZO show in Toronto at Clinton’s Tavern at Bathurst and Bloor on Saturday, November 19. You can also check out their website at www.muzomusic.com to download sound and video clips of their music.
- Jordan Taub - The Insider - York University Student Paper
"MUZO has achieved an incredibly fresh sound, drawing on jazz, rock, new music, and more. Over the last few months they have really made a lasting impression on the Canadian music scene playing all over Ontario and Quebec. This band is something you gotta see in person!" - Aired on 106.9 - 106.9 - London Radio
"Last Thursday MUZO played the Salt Lounge in London, Ontario. With a huge turnout the band did not fail to dazzle their audience! MUZO plays with the sophistication of trained jazz musicians but with the excitement and intensity of rockers..." - The Gazette
On June 11, 2005, MUZO gave us a very special and memorable gift...an evening of top-notch musical entertainment that doubled as a fantastic fundraiser for Horizons Children's Centre (www.horizonscentre.org). The band coordinated the entire event, from booking to encouraging fans and friends to come out and support the cause.
The band played a to a jam-packed audience at the Smiling Buddha Bar in downtown Toronto. Their eclectic mix of music, smooth style and polished performance had the crowd cheering for more!
They sing, they play, they write amazing songs...what don't they do? Fans and friends raised more than $800 for Horizons Children Centre! We are thrilled to put this money towards our upcoming Computer Resource Centre initiative.
Thanks to MUZO and everyone at the Smiling Buddha Bar for the perfect evening. - Horizon's Children Centre Newsletter
Discography
Up On The Ledge - 2005
Photos
Feeling a bit camera shy
Bio
MUZO is an eclectic, high-energy, power trio. Comprised of guitar, electric bass, and drums. MUZO has created a fresh sound with lush harmonies, soaring melodies, and intricate rhythms. Characterized by unique improvisations and influences that range from jazz to rock to new music, MUZO is a totally unique experience that can only truely be described through its performance.
Since September 2004, MUZO has been dazzling audiences in Toronto and in college towns throughout Ontario and Quebec. They have developed a truely devoted fanbase in Toronto, London, Montreal, Ottawa, and more. Playing at bars, fraternity parties, clubs, and more, MUZO has something to offer to everyone. Every MUZO show is special and unique, as the band makes a consistent effort to change up the set, feel, and mood of each performance.
MUZO is:
Mike Wise - Guitarist:
Mike has been playing the guitar since he was 10 years old. His influences vary in time and style, ranging from rock legends like Jimi Hendrix to modern jazz gurus like Bill Frisell. Mike is currently honing his skills as a student at the faculty of music at the University of Toronto. He is busy in a number of groups, including MUZO, and a modern jazz group. On the side, Wise is working with sony-signed, singer/songwriter Dave Thomson.
Mike Kirsh - Bassist:
Mike Kirsh has been around the block as an instrumentalist, performing on the drums, the bass, and the guitar. Kirsh has performed with Wise in various settings since they met in high school. He is one multi-talented fellow who can play the smoothest lines and the deepest grooves. A music lover at heart, Kirsh brings an eclectic style to every performance.
Ben Weigensberg - Drummer:
Ben brings a wealth of experience to MUZO, having played in many successful bands. Formerly a student of the Humber College Music Program, Ben continues to jam, swing, and rock out to this day. Currently he is attending the Harris Institute for music production/engineering and studio design. Ben brings something VERY special to the band with his impeccable time, his mind-blowing rhythms, and his tight chops! Be sure to catch him flying around the drums at the next MUZO show.
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