Rhythm Summit

'Rhythm Summit' is a collaboration between master Taiko artist Kenny Endo, drummer, vibraphonist and percussionist Noel Okimoto and bassist Dean Taba. All three are Japanese Americans with similar backgrounds studying and listening to jazz. Endo took a turn to study Taiko in Japan for ten years, and has continued as one of the major practitioners of the art form in the U.S. Combining the improvisational elements of jazz with the traditions of Taiko is the basis of 'Rhythm Summit'. Rhythms and grooves from around the world are incorporated with melody and harmony being covered in virtuosic fashion by six string bassist Dean Taba. Okimoto plays vibraphone and marimba to add to the sonic diversity of the percussive based trio. A true World Music sound, with Afo-Cuban, New Orleans, Brazilian, Swing, Odd-Meter, Blues and Japanese elements all fused with the communal, improvisational spirit of jazz.