Two Performances Celebrating Two Releases For Edward Simon

NEW YORK (www.edwardsimon.com) - Internationally known pianist and composer, Edward Simon, is celebrating the release of two recordings this month with performances at The Jazz Gallery (New York) April 28th & 29th. 'Simplicitas' (Criss Cross) with his Trio, and 'Fiestas de Agosto' (Red Records) with long time collaborator David Binney. Deeply rooted in his Latin background, Edward Simon has a reputation as a pensive, rhythmically astute, and versatile player. His work with trumpeter Terrence Blanchard and vocalist Luciana Souza places him among the most sensitive and tasteful accompanists in jazz.

The recording 'Simplicitas' speaks of the longing to recover the essentials of living. Edward's desire to express this clarity and preciseness through music results in Simplicity, of which he writes, '…is the most simple tune I've ever written and probably the most beautiful.' Members of the trio on "Simplicitas" are long time drummer Adam Cruz and Israeli bassist Avishai Cohen. A special chemistry and multi-lingual versatility exist among the three which deserves to be documented.

'Fiestas de Agosto' is a two-way conversation. Collaborating since 1988, the musical pairing of Edward Simon and multi-instrumentalist, David Binney has proven itself, time and time again, to produce insightful recordings such as 'Afinidad' (Red Records) and 'La Bikina' (Mythology). Now, bringing it down to pure elements, they have given themselves room to explore without restriction. The duo setting provides the opportunity to share this beauty of space, thus giving the music a more meditative quality which hasn't been present in their previous work, and which makes this recording unique .

Recipient of the New Works: Creation and Presentation Program grant (2004) and considered part of a new generation of 'multilingual' musicians who have grown up studying classical, jazz and Latin American music, Edward Simon is reinventing a language that stands to transcend any rigid genre. For more information visit him on the web at https://www.edwardsimon.com.