Now celebrating more than 50 years as a professional musician, percussionist Steve Kroon grew up in the Queens neighborhood of St. Albans, home to such jazz legends as Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis and Count Basie. At home, he was exposed early on to the dynamic Latin sounds of Tito Puente, Tito Rodriguez, and Machito. Steve studied with Brazilian percussion master Dom Um Romao and enjoyed a 20–year professional association (1981–2001) with superstar Luther Vandross, appearing on the singer’s platinum albums and world tours. From 1987 to 2004, Steve worked with groups led by bassist Ron Carter; other significant credits include Aretha Franklin, Stanley Turrentine, Bette Midler, Tony Bennett, and Lady Gaga. Steve Kroon’s latest CD on his own Kroonatune Records is In Your Dreams, a finely–balanced blend of Latin, jazz, and pop elements, including songs co–written with Oscar Hernandez (“Cruisin',” “Mi Lindo Son”) and Bryan Carrott (“In Your Dreams”). Tonight at Jazz Standard, Steve will bring his new material to life at the helm of a cooking band featuring saxophonist Ron Blake – don’t miss it!  Steven Kroon - congas & percussion Ron Blake - tenor saxophone Igor Atalita - keyboard Donald Nicks - bass Bryan Carrott - vibraphone Craig Rivers - flute Diego Lopez - drums