Sweet Thunder - Kinship

Sweet Thunder is three women playing jazz, stormy and sweet. This trio of piano, electric bass, and drums has been delighting audiences in the Pacific Northwest since 1999. The group counts among their inspirations and influences such musical greats as Thelonius Monk, Pat Metheny, and Antonio Carlos Jobim. 'Kinship' marks the first time the band has released a full-length CD of their original material. Some of the arrangements dance to 'odd, floaty tunes' (one listener's description), while others reach deep into bluesy heartache, swing in jazzy reverie, or pulse with Latin drive. About the Players Kiera O'Hara (piano) began composing in her early twenties. She has performed as a solo artist and as a member of numerous jazz groups since then. Her compositions reflect the mixed jazz and classical musical influences from her childhood. In her music you can hear both the moody, flowy influences of Debussy and Revel, as well as the country blues influence of artists like Muddy Waters and Lightnin' Hopkins. However, it is the passion and sense of spirit in the music of McCoy Tyner that Kiera finds the most inspirational. Her own compositions reflect a depth of spirit and a rich experience of life. Mary Steele (bass) began her musical training on classical violin, then migrated to playing rock and jazz, influenced by the styles of Jerry Goodman, Stephane Grappelli and Jean-Luc Ponty. Later on she switched to the bass, loving to play those low notes and walking lines. She developed a solid jazz foundation as the bassist with a Portland area swing band. With Sweet Thunder she enjoys the opportunity to stretch out creatively, adding her comments to the three-way musical conversation. Wendy McGinnis (drums) began banging her brother's drums at the tender age of six. She has played percussion in a number of symphonic bands and orchestras over the years, and finds inspiration in the amazing percussionist, Evelyn Glennie. Wendy has a particular affinity for the rich orchestrations of the swing era and played in a 16-piece big band for several years. Playing with Sweet Thunder feeds her love of jazz and her passion for being part of the creative process. In 'Kinship' may you find music that lifts your spirits and rejuvenates your soul.

1) Traveling
2) Nomi
3) Blues in the Barn
4) Island
5) Song for Debbie
6) Mad Mo
7) Kinship
8) Around the Moon
9) Amber Jewels!
10) Peninsula
11) Imp Romp 2
12) Millennium