The Site
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The Biography, OR |
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Smooth grooves. Searing solos. Lush chords. Funky rhythms. These are the trademarks of the Best in Contemporary JazFunk. And these are the words that describe the sounds of Detour JazFunk, Chicago’s preeminent contemporary jazz quartet. They take their listeners on a journey off the well worn path of those artists considered to be today’s cutting edge “smooth jazz,” by adding a touch of genuine old school funk and soul into their mix. Detour embarks on a musical voyage that offers something fresh, yet familiar to every aspect of your musical palette...not just for the jazz lover in you. Detour JazFunk consists of guitarist/vocalist Phillip Seed, drummer/vocalist Ben “Jammin” Johnson, and bassist Kenery Kent Smith. They round out their ranks by enlisting the talents of the industry’s freshest and finest keyboardists, including such in-demand players as Tim Gant, Mike Logan, Chris Robinson, Kevin Randolph, and Cliff Johnson. Throughout the Midwest music scene and beyond, Detour has brought their particular brand of Jazfunk to some of Chicago’s most popular venues, including The Park West, the Backroom, and Green Dolphin Street. They have also performed at many of the Midwest’s major musical, social, and cultural events, such as the Wisconsin Afro Fest, the annual Taste of Chicago, An Expo For Today’s Black Woman, the 2001 Juneteenth Festival in Tulsa, Oklahoma with Gerald Albright, Will Downing, and Wayman Tisdale, and opening for Con Funk Shun and the Isley Brothers at the Rainbow/Push fundraiser concert for Luther Vandross, held at the Chicago Theater in May, 2003. Detour JazFunk’s debut CD, entitled "JazFunk", was released in January of 2002 to critical acclaim by both their peers and fans alike. They have also recorded and performed with many local and national artists, contributing original tracks and solid performances to projects including Lenny Kravitz' trumpeter extraordinaire Ron Haynes, and R&B vocalist Kevin Chandler’s respective debut CDs. They have performed with major artists ranging from Rachelle Ferrell to Patti LaBelle, from Lee Ritnour to Ashford and Simpson. And they have collectively and individually worked with such musical luminaries as trumpeter Freddie Hubbard, saxophonist Steve Cole, bassists Bill “Buddha” Dickens and T.M. Stevens, R&B vocalists Chaka Khan and Mikki Howard, and comedian/actor Bernie Mac. Detour JazFunk’s musical style, on stage chemistry, and flavorful repertoire have made their performances a must see event for those who like to groove, JazFunk style. So do yourself a favor...check out Detour JazFunk. They'll take your mind, body and soul on a new and exciting route to JazFunk's Best, and away from the old, repetitive "Smooth Jazz" norm.
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Detour JazFunk tearin' it up at their 2002 CD release party at Isaac Hayes' Jazz & Blues Restaurant, Chicago.
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Phil, Kenery, and keyboardist Charlie Johnson talking shop with acclaimed actor Jeffrey Wright at The Backroom in Chicago.
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