Accomplished guitarist Kevin Metzger and acclaimed producer and artist R. Aaron Walters are set to release their highly anticipated collaborative record, "Many Worlds," on July 19th, 2024.   Rooted in jazz sensibilities yet transcending genre boundaries, "Many Worlds" marks a significant milestone in Metzger's musical journey. Following a harrowing car accident in 2017 that nearly robbed him of his ability to play guitar, Metzger embarked on a quest to rediscover his artistic voice. The result is a visionary exploration that melds elements of jazz, rock, and classical influences into a cohesive and progressive-minded odyssey.   Joining Metzger on this musical venture is the equally adept improviser, R. Aaron Walters. As a pianist and drummer, Walters brings a synchronous energy that elevates the duo's collaboration to new heights. Together, they traverse a rich soundscape of original compositions and inspired interpretations, including renditions of works by iconic artists such as Keith Jarrett, The Grateful Dead, and the Mahavishnu Orchestra. Additionally, the record features a compelling take on a duo sonata by Johann Sebastian Bach, showcasing the duo's reverence for classical tradition.   "Many Worlds" is not only a testament to Metzger's resilience and creative vision but also a celebration of the enduring musical friendship between Metzger and Walters. Hailing from Syracuse, NY, the duo's decades-long bond serves as the foundation for this exciting release.   For Metzger, "Many Worlds" marks his debut full-record release, representing a culmination of years of musical exploration and growth. For Walters, it is a significant collaborative endeavor following his 2015 SAMMY award-winning record, "Sea of Gold," with Early Bird Trio. "Many Worlds" promises to captivate listeners with its evocative compositions, virtuosic performances, and boundless creative spirit. Prepare to embark on a mesmerizing musical journey unlike any other.

Kajuneji is a seven-piece band with an alternative sound reminiscent of world music, RnB, funk, and what they refer to with tongue in cheek as "harmonically reduced jazz", taking smooth compositions and expanding them beyond pop, all while remaining committed to the song. With lyrics shifting between English and Brazilian Portuguese and inspirations from all across the globe and decades, they create a timeless blend that feels both familiar and entirely new.   Formed in 2023, the group brings together musicians from Upstate New York, Asheville, Miami, and Rio de Janeiro. Drawing inspiration from artists like Banda Black Rio, The Headhunters, and Mahavishnu Orchestra, Kajuneji mixes R&B, funk, soul, jazz, rock, and world music into something both fresh and familiar. Their sound leans into deep grooves, layered textures, and improvisation—anchored by strong songwriting and a feel for the moment. Their growing repertoire includes original music and reimagined deep cut covers; all played with respect and intention.   The band is made up of Pablo Falbru with his gospel and soul background on vocals, and percussion. He shares the mic with Bruna Croce, coming in from the Brazilian jazz and bossa nova scene in Rio de Janeiro. Keanu Reedz brings Miami’s energy on saxophone and EWI, and James Eddington puts on a guitar master class, mixing gentle accents and tones or unleashing the power of electric guitar. Aaron Holland holds down the keys, with the ever-tight rhythm section of Joe Calabrese on drums and John Manion on the bass.   In 2024, Kajuneji shared stages with acts like Mavis Staples, Mokoomba, and Soule Monde (with members of Trey Anastasio Band), and performed at festivals including Grassroots and Drumstock. Their debut EP “in ink from the void” was recorded at Black Bear Studio in Ithaca and released in spring 2025, found on all online music streaming platforms. Kajuneji is preparing for a run of shows in late summer 2025.