Wayne Krantz - Howie 61

Revered for years for his forward-thinking approach to improvisation, guitarist Wayne Krantz has often fearlessly branched into new areas, while consistently skirting the edges of jazz, rock and fusion. Now with his latest album, 'Howie 61', Krantz has re-invented himself yet again with a stunningly creative recording, and a bold new direction. The incredible supporting cast includes Vinnie Colaiuta, Tal Wilkenfeld, Keith Carlock, Pino Palladino, John Patitucci, David Binney and others.

Though Krantz has utilized vocals in his music before on 'Howie 61' Krantz pushes this aspect of his artistry a step further by incorporating vocal content in his music in a manner that is more complete and tightly integrated than anything he has done in the past.

From riff-driven rock and funk, to stirring ballads, Krantz hits many moods on 'Howie 61', all the while retaining the harmonic and rhythmic acuity he's well known for. Highlights include rockers such as The Bad Guys and Can't Stand to Rock - both high energy tracks propelled by Krantz's searing guitar work. On Check Yo Self, Krantz harkens back to his group-improv ethos with drummer Keith Carlock and bassist James Genus for a funky, stripped-down instrumental take on the Ice Cube-meets-Grandmaster Flash classic.