"Van Davis have the makings of a classic jazz-funk-fusion band, as good as or better than many that have come before. Their improvisational skills are second to none, as exemplified on their new CD 'Have You Seen This Band'. But as good as it is, they are better live-go see this band!"--Henry Lewis (Music Connection)“Both funky and cerebral, there’s quite a lot of high energy, groove-based instrumental jazz-rock to enjoy from Van Davis…Ezra tastefully creates a new sound in the spirit of Jeff Beck, Eric Johnson and Steve Morse.”--20th Century Guitar"These guys seem to play with limitless energy. NYC seems to be developing a serious guitar trio scene. Add Van Davis to the top of the list. Highly recommended."--Ken Golden (The Laser’s Edge)
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VAN DAVIS is a high-energy groove-rock trio from New York City with a sound that straddles the worlds of rock, funk, and jazz. Their infectious melodies and deep, distinctive grooves evoke shades of progressive rock, jazz fusion, metal, classical, and even bluegrass, producing a hybrid that is both complex and fun. The band is known for their adventurous improvisation within intricate, well-composed songs. Guitarist Jake Ezra explains, "We're always throwing curve balls at each other and having musical dialogues. I never view our songs as totally finished. I always encourage the band to take chances and try something new."
The story of Van Davis began in 2002 with Jake Ezra's desire to start an innovative instrumental band with the rock bravado of Van Halen and the free musical experimentation of Miles Davis (hence the moniker Van Davis). Immediately onboard was drummer Patrick Carmichael, who wowed Jake with his relaxed precision and funky, fun compositions. Bassist Jon Price rounded out the trio, bringing his in-depth understanding of groove and improvisation to the project. The band's 2003 self-titled debut CD was hailed as "a funky, very live-feeling CD that runs the gamut of whatever the guitar can do" (Mike Brady, proGGnosis).
Van Davis' passionate following has packed renowned NYC venues including the Knitting Factory, 55 Bar, Mo Pitkins, and Don Hills. Whenever onstage, the band members share their humor and spontaneity as well as the technical proficiency their fans have come to expect: "Ezra's collection of pedals and effects is used to add stunning color to the music, and his manipulation of the wah pedal is perfect. The rhythm section moves from jazz to blues grooves effortlessly, and touches on a harder rock vibe without missing a beat " (Matt Mrowicki, Chorus and Verse).
The cover art of Van Davis latest CD Have You Seen This Band? portrays the faces of Jake, Jon, and Patrick on a milk carton as if they were "missing." In truth, the band is now finding what they've been looking for: a way to make "instrumental music with a lot to say" that's accessible to a global audience. With a steady stream of new fans falling in love with the bands sound, Van Davis is ready to rock the socks off of anyone who'll open their ears and listen.
