STRAIGHT AHEAD

Out of Detroit’s lively jazz scene, which has produced some of the best musicians in the world, comes the Grammy-nominated jazz group Straight Ahead. Straight Ahead broke new ground for women in the recording industry as the first all-woman jazz band signed to a major record label – Atlantic Records. A group of strong, inventive instrumentalists and vocalists, they have shown themselves to be powerful and imaginative composers and arrangers.

 

Widely recognized for their eclectic and soulful approach to creating music, the Straight Ahead sound ranges comfortably from jazz, to Latin music and jazzy hip-hop. Their live performances are a dynamic celebration of power and joy with a wide range of musical textures, moods and tempos.

 

Straight Ahead was introduced to the world as finalist in the “Sony Innovators” competition. A national competition recognizing exceptional performers in the jazz field. They received international exposure when they were invited to open for the legendary Nina Simone at the Montreux Jazz Festival, Switzerland. Since then, they have traveled the world, including tours to Europe, the Caribbean and Australia. The ensemble has shared the concert stage with a who’s who of the music world including: Kem, Roy Ayers, George Duke, Stanley Clarke, The Yellowjackets and Dianne Reeves.

 

With 5 recordings to its credit, Straight Ahead has established itself as one of jazz’s most enduring and prolific groups. Their recordings feature original compositions as well as music from diverse sources such as 70’s R&B and Neo Soul.

 

Featuring: Alina Morr- Piano, Gayelynn McKinney- Drums, Marion Hayden- Bass, Kymberli Wright – Vocals, Ingrid Racine – Trumpet.