ATLANTIS QUARTET

Atlantis Quartet has emerged as a leading voice in the twin cities' burgeoning modern jazz scene since its inception in 2006. The group features four of Minnesota's most exciting young jazz artists, saxophonist Brandon Wozniak, guitarist Zacc Harris, bassist Chris Bates, and drummer Pete Hennig; who have come together in this setting to create and explore fresh and original sounds in the heart of and on the edges of the jazz idiom. The ensemble's blend of complexity and accessibility has proven a perfect fit for all listeners.

Dwight Hobbes of the Pulse Twin Cities credits Atlantis Quartet with "strong compositions and insanely serious chops" while the Dakota Jazz Club refers to the band as "one of the most exciting bands in town, this group tackles complex, catchy originals with ease." The plaudits continue for the group, named "one of the bands to watch on the Midwestern modern jazz scene" by Aaron Basiliere of All About Jazz.

August 2007 marked the release of Atlantis Quartet's debut album, Again, Too Soon, a collection of eight original compositions which garnered national praise. In a review from the spring 2008 issue of Jazz Improv Magazine, Clive Griffin says, "What is abundantly clear is that each of the members of Atlantis Quartet are highly skilled musicians who have invested themselves heavily to develop their individual approaches...Together, they sound genuinely inspired." Griffin goes on to say, "Atlantis Quartet is a versatile group of jazz musicians whose music evidences their understanding and appreciation of important jazz influences - influences that they have assimilated into their own individual and group creativity."

Though the group is primarily focused on new and original music, it has honored its influences with dynamic performances the past two Halloweens at the Dakota Jazz Club of two classic albums in their entirety; John Coltrane's A Love Supreme in 2008 and Herbie Hancock's Head Hunters in 2009. Atlantis Quartet's renditions were met with great praise from audiences and critics alike, invoking a handful of encore performances.

Atlantis Quartet is set to release its second album, Animal Progress, in December 2009. The record promises to exceed expectations set by the group's debut effort, illustrating the growth and maturity in this dynamic group. Time will tell just how much this exciting ensemble will accomplish, but like its music, the possibilities are infinite.