East West Quintet - don't be fooled by the name. This genre-bending ensemble from Brooklyn, New York, is more likely to rock than to swing, utilizes both acoustic and electronic instruments, and is commonly found performing with not five but six band members. Formed in 2003 as a hard-bop ensemble in the mold of the Cannonball Adderley Quintet, the group quickly changed course, incorporating musical elements from their early punk, rock, and hip-hop experiences.
Through years of experimentation and growth, the band has come into its own, divorcing itself from being jazz-rock, rock-jazz or any other clumsy musical description. Simply stated, East West Quintet is a compellingly powerful band that lies outside of conventional boundaries and appeals to listeners of all kinds.
East West Quintet has been featured on NPR's Jazz Set with Dee Dee Bridgewater, Morning Edition, Open Mic, and on Jazz and Indie Radio nationwide.