The Bob Ward Trio

Interplay and groove is the essence of music created when artists Bob Ward, Kelly Friesen and Taro Okamoto team up as The Bob Ward Trio. The conversational repore between Taro's drums and Kelly's bass is an impressive catalyst triggering Bob's melodic guitar to spring in quick response. All three being outstanding soloists, the cohesiveness and sense of delicacy they are able to dictate together is nothing short of amazing. Bob met Taro when they played together in saxophonist Warne MarshÍs quartet in 1982. Taro Okamoto played on BobÍs first record '4 on 6 X 5' (Choice) with The New Jazz Guitar Ensemble. Introduced at a recording session in 1997, Bob asked Kelly Friesen to join his new group, The New York Jazz Quintet, with Taro on drums and they have been working together as a unit ever since. Now you can hear the The New York Quintet featured on the upcoming new 2005 CD release, ïThe PersuaderÍ (Current Sound), BobÍs fifth CD. Guitarist, Bob Ward has been performing for over twenty years alongside legends Jack McDuff, Warne Marsh, Marc Johnson and Barry Harris. He has composed songs for George Benson, Grover Washington, Jr. and Ramsey Lewis. ïUgandaÍ from his ïVoodoo DogsÍ CD (Palmetto Records) with Larry Goldings will appear in the new Gwyneth Paltrow, Anthony Hopkins movie, ïPROOFÍ. Kelly Friesen, one of New YorkÍs premier singing bassists, has performed with jazz greats Herb Ellis, Dick Hyman, Bucky Pizzarelli and Warren Vache. His unique and virtuistic acoustic bass style is featured in the Woody Allen film, ïSweet and LowdownÍ. Kelly and Bob have recently returned from BobÍs Jazz Japan 2004 tour of major cities across Japan. Born in Japan, although a true New Yorker after moving here 30 years ago, drummer Taro Okamoto has a marvelous sensitivity with a deep swinging groove acquired through touring with Elvin Jones for several years. Taro has worked alongside jazz legends Hank Jones, Barry Harris, Duke Jordan, Reggie Workman, Billy Harper, Eddie Henderson, Steve Grossman and Gary Bartz.

MANAGEMENT AND BOOKINGS currentsounds@hotmail.com 646-548-4228 www3.synapse.ne.jp/bobward