The New Yorksuper band Rudder unites the improvisation talent of four highly experienced American jazz artists. Saxophonist Chris Creek has played with Charlie Haden, while keyboard man Henry Hey used to work with George Michael and Rod Stewart as a musical director. DrummerKeith Carlockhas played withJohn Mayer, James Taylor and Sting, and is the regular drummer ofSteely Dan, and bassist Tim Lefebvre used to make music with Nick Cave.Their combined experience and influences can be heard in the music of their band Rudder that plays grunge jazz, according to the band members. Not for the tenderhearted but for adventurous spirits. Yet enjoying a Rudder performance is not hard work. Previous shows in Rotterdam and at North Sea Jazz have demonstrated that the band in a live setting can also produce exciting funk with a lot of room for spontaneity.
