Kevin Hays
Kevin Hays is internationally recognized as one of the premier jazz pianists of his generation. Many of his 15 recordings as leader have received
critical acclaim from publications such as The New York Times, Downbeat Magazine and Jazz Times, as well as a “Coup de Coeur” from
the Académie Charles Cros (France). A prolific sideman appearing on over 60 records, Kevin’s long list of notable musical associations include
records with Chris Potter, Joshua Redman, Nicholas Payton, and Al Foster.
2011’s Modern Music (Nonesuch), a piano duo collaboration
with Brad Mehldau and composer Patrick Zimmerli, garnered widespread critical acclaim. The duo premiered several works at Carnegie Hall, and has
toured throughout the US, Europe, and South America. The solo Variations (Pirouet, 2011), was released to excellent reviews throughout
North America and Europe. The record features three sets of improvised variations on several original themes, along with exquisite variations on a
fugue by Robert Schumann.
The New Day Trio is Kevin’s latest project with bassist Rob Jost (Bjork, Tony Scherr) and drummer Greg Joseph (Steve
Kuhn, Art Garfunkel). Developing over a 2 year residency at New York’s 55 Bar, the trio performs a unique and diverse repertoire including
new compositions by Kevin, works by 20th century composer Henryk Gorecki, singer-songwriters Bob Dylan and Rodriguez, and re-workings of jazz
standards.
Kevin’s latest album, New Day (Sunnyside) was recorded during the summer of 2014. It features nine new compositions and several
vocal performances by Hays including an arresting rendition of Jimmy Webb’s classic ‘Highwayman’. New Day marks Hays’s return to the studio and
first release in over 3 years. Produced by Matt Pierson (Brad Mehldau, Joshua Redman, Mark Turner), the new album features Kevin’s core trio of Rob
Jost (bass) and Greg Joseph (drums) plus special guests Gregoire Maret (harmonica) and Tony Scherr (guitar).
